The University of Aberdeen is one of the UK’s oldest and most distinguished universities.  Named as the Scottish University of the Year in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019 and awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education 2017 in recognition of our world-leading health research over the last forty years, we are committed to building further on our history and international reputation for teaching and research excellence.

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional individual to lead the Directorate of External Relations and Communications to deliver a significant step-change in the impact and effectiveness of communications, events and public affairs activities.

The successful candidate will bring a distinguished record of successful leadership and effective operational management for a small multidisciplinary team with a demonstrable ability to promote a culture of excellence, innovation, continuous improvement and a willingness to embrace change.

The Director will provide professional advice to the Senior Management Team in responding to issues that may prompt widespread interest and so the ability to influence, persuade, and establish good relationships with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders  is expected.

Promoting and enhancing the University’s reputation at a local, national and international level is a key component of this role so significant experience of successfully leading creative communications and high-profile events and public affairs initiatives is essential. A strong network of relationships within the political arena at a regional, Scottish and UK-wide level would also be helpful.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the University of Aberdeen on this appointment.  For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference WVBR.  Alternatively telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours).  Applications should be received by noon on Thursday 14 March 2019.