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

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

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

About the Role
The Rivers Trust is a leading environmental charity and umbrella body for over 60 independent local charities, united by a vision for wild, healthy, natural rivers valued by all. As we expand our projects to protect and replenish vital water environments, our research and expertise are increasingly critical. We are seeking a Deputy Director of Communications to lead our communications department, covering internal and external communications, project communications, and public relations. This permanent role (subject to ongoing funding) reports to the Director of Communications and Advocacy and involves overseeing a team of approximately 10 staff, including two managers and their teams, as well as liaising with The Rivers Trust All Ireland communications team.

You will play a crucial role in shaping public perception, supporting fundraising efforts, managing sensitive information, and ensuring cohesive and effective communication across all channels. Key responsibilities include developing and delivering internal and external communication strategies aligned with organisational goals, maintaining brand integrity, managing media relations, coordinating public appearances and events, leading crisis communication, monitoring communication effectiveness, and collaborating with executive leadership to support business objectives.

We offer a supportive and inclusive work atmosphere with benefits including 33 days holiday (pro-rated), a generous pension scheme, life assurance, enhanced sick pay and family leave, an employee assistance programme, and a flexible working policy. Adjustments for disabilities and caring responsibilities are welcomed to ensure an equitable working environment.

Experience
- Proven experience in a senior communications role 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 foster an inclusive and respectful working culture.

Qualifications
- Relevant level 5 qualification such as a degree in communications, PR, journalism, marketing, or a related discipline, or equivalent experience
- Significant experience in communications, marketing, public relations, or related fields

Desirable Skills
- Knowledge of 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 platforms and social media marketing
- Experience with search engine marketing, Google Analytics, and Google AdWords
- Established media relations