Location
Home-based, anywhere in mainland UK with travel 2-3 times per month to meetings and conferences mainly in England and occasionally Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.

Hours
Part-time (0.6 FTE) with flexible working hours and time off in lieu available.

Salary
£33,000 (pro-rated from £55,000 full-time equivalent)

About the Role
The Rivers Trust is a leading environmental charity supporting over 60 independent local charities with a vision for wild, healthy, natural rivers valued by all. We are expanding to deliver vital projects to protect and replenish our natural water environment. The Deputy Director of Communications will lead the communications department, overseeing internal and external communications, project and public relations, ensuring cohesive and effective messaging that supports fundraising and public perception. Reporting to the Director of Communications and Advocacy, you will line manage two managers and support their teams, currently a total of around 10 staff, including links with The Rivers Trust All Ireland communications team. You will ensure brand integrity and consistent messaging across all channels, develop and deliver communication strategies aligned with organisational goals, and manage media relations and public appearances. This permanent role is subject to ongoing funding and offers a supportive, inclusive work atmosphere with generous benefits including pension, holiday, life assurance, and flexible working policies.

Experience
- Proven senior-level communications experience working with executive leadership and external stakeholders
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing a communications team
- Ability to develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies and plans
- Experience managing crisis communication and public relations issues
- Proficiency in digital communication platforms and social media management
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Familiarity with branding and reputation management
- Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills
- Good understanding of environmental issues
- Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion

About you
Enthusiastic, self-reliant, resilient, and able to lead a diverse team in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications
- Relevant level 5 qualification (e.g. degree in communications, PR, journalism, marketing or related discipline) or equivalent experience
- Significant experience in communications, marketing, public relations, or related fields

Desirable
- Knowledge and proficiency with communications technologies
- Strong copywriting and copy-editing skills
- Understanding of graphic design, layout, and publishing
- Experience with content management systems and creative software
- Knowledge of social media marketing, search engine marketing, Google Analytics, and Google AdWords
- Established media relations