Responsibilities

• Working with the Head of Regional programmes, Programme Manager and other team members, design and ensure a strong and visible communications and events plan to support the effective delivery of the Northern Accelerator programme.
• Co-ordinate internal communications activity between the University partners and the wider network of Strategic partners to underpin the success of the commercialisation ecosystem.
• Work closely with the wider network of Communications staff to ensure there are complementary communication activities across, Northern Accelerator, the SCENE programme, the Commercialisation and Spinout Fund, and any other projects which re-enforce their brands and demonstrate the collaboration between North East universities.
• Provide support, advice, information, presentations and guidance to University staff regarding the communications activities within the project, including ensuring compliance with the expectations of partners and funders with respect of use of logos and other corporate or programme identities and to be the focal point for communications across the University and strategic partners.
• Monitor communications activities against a key set of metrics and make proposals for improvement

Requirements

• Five GCSEs at least Grade C or level four (or equivalent) including English Language and Mathematics or a Post-16 qualification or equivalent experience.
• Professional experience in the coordination of communications and event activities.
• Experience and expertise in the development and delivery of external and internal communications plans and services.
• Experience of providing advice and guidance to a range of key stakeholders, customers and colleagues.
• Experience of implementing communications policies and procedures for example in the management of brands.
• Experience in the organisation of meetings and events of different sizes and purposes, equivalent to strategic meetings, conferences and showcases.
• Excellent spoken and written communication skills including the ability to develop effective working relationships, both internally and externally.
• Strong digital competence across a range of digital devices and apps including [digital communication tools, Microsoft 365 applications, business systems].
• An understanding of the role of universities in the economy and the purpose of knowledge exchange or commercialisation activity
• The ability to prepare content for print and online publications and to curate websites

Nice to Have

• A professional qualification in a communication(s) related discipline.
• Experience working in a professional role in the start-up or innovation ecosystem

Benefits

• You’ll receive 27 days annual leave per year in addition to 8 public holidays and 4 customary days per year - a total of 39 days. The University closes between Christmas and New Year.
• We offer a generous pension scheme, and as a new member of staff you will be automatically enrolled into the University Superannuation Scheme (USS).
• No matter how you travel to work, we have you covered. We have ample parking across campus, a cycle to work scheme which helps you to buy a bike and discount with local bus and train companies. You can also take advantage of our cost-effective and environmentally friendly Tusker Car Benefit Scheme, allowing you to lease a brand-new electric or hybrid vehicle with savings on tax and National Insurance.
• We have a genuine commitment to developing our colleagues professionally and personally. There is a comprehensive range of development courses, apprenticeships and access to qualifications and routes to develop your career in the University. All staff have dedicated annual time to concentrate on their personal development opportunities.
• We provide wide-ranging health and wellbeing support including discounted membership for our state-of-the-art sport and gym facilities and access to a 24-7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Our on-site nursery is rated Outstanding by Ofsted, and you can access holiday camps for children aged 5-16.
• Our family friendly policies, including maternity and adoption leave, are among the most generous in the higher education sector (and likely above and beyond many employers).
• We offer all staff the opportunity to take part in volunteering activities to make a difference in the local community.
• You can access exclusive discounts via our benefits portal including money off at supermarkets, high street retailers, IT products such as Apple, eating out and days out at various attractions.