Deputy Director, Head of Public Affairs and Communications

The Deputy Director, Head of Public Affairs and Communications is a senior leadership role responsible for developing and executing public affairs and communications strategies that support the organisation's statutory mandates and business objectives, while enhancing its reputation and external environment. Reporting to the Chief Legal Officer, this role works closely and collaboratively with the Chief Executive and the Executive Management Team on external communications and key stakeholder engagement.

Principal Accountabilities

• Develop and oversee the organisation's public affairs and communications strategies, ensuring they align with its mandates, strategic objectives, values, and goals.

• Lead proactive planning to manage complex public relations issues, including identifying emerging matters that may impact the organisation's reputation or core responsibilities.

• Refine and maintain consistent core messaging across the organisation to ensure clarity and alignment in all communications.

• Build and manage effective relationships with key external stakeholders, including government departments and other public bodies.

• Prepare high-quality briefing materials, press releases, and other communications tailored to various audiences.

• Coordinate and oversee the preparation of organisational reports and presentations, including the Annual Report.

• Provide timely, strategic, and pragmatic communications and public affairs advice to senior leadership as needed.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and interview requests; coordinate responses and act as spokesperson when appropriate.

• Lead and manage a team of communications professionals, fostering a high-performance culture.

• Oversee the management and content of the organisation's external websites and social media platforms; monitor media coverage, including social media.

• Provide public affairs and communications support to affiliated bodies or partner organisations as required.

• Contribute to broader organisational initiatives and support other activities as needed.

• Degree/Masters qualification required.

Experience

• At least 10 years of experience in a professional setting, ideally within public affairs, communications, or public relations.

• Proven success in delivering impactful corporate public affairs initiatives, particularly in the financial or professional services sectors.

• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing public affairs strategies that support and advance business objectives.

Skills

• Exceptional verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex information into clear, compelling messages tailored to diverse audiences.

• Strong written communication skills, with hands-on experience drafting high-quality materials for senior leadership use.

• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building abilities, with established internal and external networks and a proven ability to influence key stakeholders.

• Flexible and adaptable, able to respond effectively to changing priorities and navigate a variety of contexts.

• Strategic and creative thinker, with a problem-solving mindset and the ability to develop clear, actionable plans that support organisational goals.

• Composed and diplomatic under pressure, capable of handling sensitive situations with professionalism.

• Proficient in using modern communication tools and platforms, including media monitoring systems, content management systems, and social media management tools.