Communications Manager

NEKTON
Our mission is to rapidly accelerate our scientific understanding and protection of the ocean for people and the planet. We work for the ocean. Nekton is a UK-registered charity, based in Oxford, UK.
THE ROLE
We are searching for a Communications Manager to join our team (Oxford, UK based) and at first run an innovative news and social media campaign around our forthcoming India Mission (end of March-end of April 2024).
KEY DATES
Recruitment is for a start in January 2024 ideally (as early as possible) for an initial 6 months with the opportunity for a possible extension into a permanent role. Candidates should stipulate whether they are interested in being considered for the longer-term position when applying for the immediate role. The position is open until an appointment is made.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR?
We are looking for someone who is passionate about telling the story of our changing planet and who has experience in managing communications. Whilst we explore and protect the ocean, we are also looking for someone who brings communications skills and ideas from other sectors.
We are looking for special blend of communications and content production skills, who revels in innovation and who understands what it takes to tell stories in ways that are culturally appropriate to capture public and media attention worldwide.
You will be meticulous at project management and will thrive at being hands-on in implementing a communications strategy with a range of international partners. Proven experience in working with broadcast, digital and social media platforms and top-tier news organisations to successfully amplify media campaigns is important.
This role will take consummate professionalism, maturity and good humour - a “glass half-full”, problem-solving person - who is able to utilise in-house and outsourced resources creatively and cost-effectively to drive rapid development.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:
Reports to Head of Communications
Tactical and operational lead and project management of the news and social media campaign around a marine science and conservation expedition in India, with India partners.
Commission and manage the creation of digital, video, photographic and print content for internal and external audiences, pre, during and post-expedition.
Manage project branding (including on vessel, equipment, personnel, apparel).
Website and social media channel management (with Creative Content Producer)
Manage and monitor the tone of voice, website content, digital communication, branding, messaging, collateral and social media ensuring they remain clear, consistent, compelling and current.
Work in collaboration with the Media Director and Head of Communications, to develop and manage media relations and develop contacts with journalists, media professionals, influencers and partners and distribute relevant and appropriate stories regularly.
Create and manage bi-monthly digital newsletter to subscribers and the Annual Report.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
At least 5 years experience of professional communications management either within news, media, NGO or corporate environment
At least 5 years experience of content production and project delivery and management of multi-dimensional international projects.
Experience of international ocean, climate or environmental media is welcome but not essential.
A confident, proactive and independent self-starter able to work quickly, flexibly and responsively in a fast-changing environment
Highly organised, detail-oriented, strong editorially
Strong written and oral communication skills within a team and with stakeholders (science, academic, media, business, government, civil society)