Interim Director Of Communications

Interim Director of Communications

Location: St James's, London (Hybrid Working) Rate: 67.36 per hour Contract: Interim Assignment until November 2026

We are seeking an exceptional communications leader for a high-profile international organisation based in central London. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic Communications Division, shape media strategy at the highest level, and act as the organisation's principal spokesperson.

Reporting directly to the Secretary-General, the successful candidate will provide strategic communications counsel to senior leadership, oversee a broad range of media and public affairs activity, and lead an experienced communications team in delivering impactful engagement across international audiences.

This role requires a highly credible communications professional with extensive experience operating within complex political, governmental, international or public sector environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation and evaluation of the organisation's external communications and media strategy.

• Serve as the official spokesperson for the organisation and its Secretary-General.

• Provide expert strategic advice on media relations, reputation management and public affairs.

• Manage media responses to sensitive, high-profile and politically complex issues.

• Lead and develop a Communications Division of approximately 20 communications professionals.

• Oversee all press office functions, including media enquiries, press releases, speeches, statements and opinion pieces.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior journalists, editors, broadcasters and media stakeholders.

• Drive excellence in digital communications, social media engagement and online content strategy.

• Support senior leaders with media briefings, public appearances and stakeholder engagement activities.

• Manage departmental budgets, resources and performance to ensure delivery of strategic objectives.

• Represent the organisation externally, including attendance at international events and conferences as required.

About You To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• A postgraduate qualification and/or significant professional experience in communications, media, public relations, journalism or international relations.

• Significant senior communications leadership experience, including substantial international media experience.

• Experience advising senior political leaders, government ministers, executives or equivalent high-profile stakeholders.

• A background in journalism with experience working for a national or major media outlet.

• Demonstrable expertise in crisis communications and reputation management at a senior level.

• Proven experience managing complex, politically sensitive media issues.

• Strong relationships across national and international media networks.

• Exceptional writing skills, with the ability to produce and place high-quality opinion pieces, statements and media content at pace.

• Outstanding presentation and spokesperson capabilities.

• Experience leading large press office or communications functions.

• Strong understanding of digital communications, social media and audience engagement strategies.

• A collaborative leadership style with experience developing high-performing teams.

What's on Offer Opportunity to work in a highly visible international leadership role with significant influence and impact.