Head of Communications at Award-Winning Architecture Practice in Winchester

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for architecture and design? An award-winning architecture practice in Winchester is looking for a Head of Communications to join their dynamic team.

This senior management role will have you reporting directly to the Executive Board, where you’ll lead the practice’s PR, marketing, communication, digital media, and brand development. Your role will be crucial in guiding the evolution of the practice, improving their profile, and enhancing their reputation for high-quality design across multiple sectors. Collaborating with external communication agencies, you’ll set business strategies and oversee the execution of various communication initiatives.

Key responsibilities include refining PR and marketing processes, developing the practice’s brand and identity, managing internal and external communications, overseeing press relations, publications, events, and archiving, as well as supporting business development. Your efforts will ensure that the practice maintains its status as a leader in design excellence.

This position offers a flexible working environment with the main office based in Winchester and the option to work from their London studio once a week. This arrangement ensures you maintain a comprehensive understanding of the entire company’s operations and dynamics.

The ideal candidate will possess excellent project management skills and the ability to think strategically while being involved in day-to-day tasks. Strong communication and writing skills are essential, along with extensive experience in media relations and marketing across various disciplines, including political issues, social affairs, architecture, and the arts. A robust network of media contacts will be advantageous.

A successful Head of Communications will have demonstrated experience in delivering effective press coverage both in the UK and internationally. You’ll coordinate well-structured campaigns with external agencies, ensuring a perceptible build-up to key events, launches, and project competitions. Proficiency in relevant IT applications and technologies is a must, as is the ability to write compelling texts for diverse audiences, from international press articles to internal reports and keynote speeches.

In addition to these competencies, you’ll bring strong leadership and team-building skills, capable of mentoring and managing teams effectively. Experience in crisis management and a keen eye for detail and presentation will set you apart.

On the business development front, you’ll work closely with the Executive Board to develop strategic approaches for winning work and expanding the business. This includes networking with key press and professional bodies to maximize promotional and business opportunities, overseeing bid activity, and maintaining good client relationships.

Your role will also involve evolving the practice’s culture, strengths, and values in collaboration with the Executive Board. You’ll work with external agencies to develop and implement a compelling brand identity, ensuring consistency across all media platforms, including social media.

As you align all communications with the practice’s business strategy and values, you’ll also develop the profiles of the directors within the industry. Mentoring and motivating the PR, marketing, communications, and graphics teams will be key, as will overseeing the production of in-house communications, case studies, and reports.

In collaboration with external agencies, you’ll respond to press inquiries, commission writers and photographers, and lead the development of an engaging website. Overseeing the production of promotional materials and award submissions, you’ll boost the practice’s presence at international events and conferences.

If you are an experienced communicator with a passion for architecture and design, this is a unique opportunity to join a prestigious practice and make a significant impact. Apply now to take the next step in your career and help shape the future of this leading architecture practice.