The Organisation 

The Alan Turing Institute, as the UK’s national institute for data science and artificial intelligence, plays an important part in driving forward advances in these technologies in order to change the world for the better.

The Opportunity

The Institute is seeking an Interim Director of Communications and Engagement to provide priority cover during an important period of transformational change following the publication of its strategy in March 2023. Starting in September 2023 for a 12 Month FTC, the candidate will lead an established communications and engagement function and support the Institute to makes steps to deliver its three strategic goals: to advance world-class research and apply it to national and global challenges, build skills for the future and drive an informed public conversation. 

The role-holder will report to the Chief Operating Officer, line manage two Heads of Department (Head of Communications and Marketing and Head of Events and Engagement) and work closely with the Institute’s executive team to drive strategic priorities.

Main Responsibilities

Strategic oversight of communications and engagement forward plans and outputs, ensuring activities are joined-up, targeted and reflect the Institute’s strategic priorities.  Leading and motivating a team covering media, marketing, internal communications, digital, science writing and events and public engagement during a period of organisational change.  Support the development and early implementation of some of the objectives and key results from the Institute’s strategy, including launching grand challenges and advancing the public conversation goal.  Lead the development of thought leadership within the Institute and seek opportunities to provide a national voice across a range of scientific and policy issues.  Manage the process for how the Institute responds to breaking news/issues, oversee central messaging banks and provide expert advice and recommendations for positions on long-term issues in the sector our public and staff-facing activities and channels are accessible and inclusive to all.  Membership of the interim Executive Team, representing the Directorate among the senior leadership group and taking collective responsibility for the allocation of resources and delivering the strategy. 

Key skills required

Significant experience of developing communications and engagement concepts and campaigns, and an understanding of how to reach key audiences through these activities.  Experience of working in a research, higher education or science organisation, or an organisation with links to government.  Experience of working effectively with a range of stakeholders, ranging from Board Members to senior scientists, to students and members of the public.  Knowledge or experience of managing internal and external communications during a time of organisational change. 

Ellwood Atfield have partnered exclusively with The Alan Turing Institute, to apply for this role please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining why you wish to apply for this role and how you meet the personal specialisation. Candidates are being interviewed on an ongoing basis.