Head of Social Media & Content

Position: Head of Social Media and Content

Location: UK-Based (Hybrid options considered)

Sector: Higher Education / Public Sector / Strategic Communications

Type: Full-time, Leadership Role

About the Role:
A strategic and creative leader is sought to develop and evolve a unified social media strategy that enhances engagement and builds reputation both nationally and internationally. As Head of Social Media and Content, you will guide a team of digital content and social storytelling specialists, overseeing campaigns that highlight research impact, student experience, institutional partnerships, and innovation—contributing to student recruitment, retention, and overall reputation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead an integrated social media strategy aligned with organisational goals and brand
• Oversee and mentor a team of social and digital content specialists to ensure high-performing output
• Unify channel management across faculties and departments under a centralised, insight-led approach
• Drive audience engagement using data analytics, real-time insight, and ongoing optimisation
• Shape and execute campaigns that showcase research, partnerships, and student experience in compelling ways
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to amplify institutional stories across multiple platforms
• Establish and enforce best practices across all official and decentralised social accounts
• Advise senior leaders on opportunities, trends, and reputational risks related to social media
• Lead crisis response and risk mitigation, monitoring emerging issues and ensuring rapid, informed action
• Act as a senior member of the communications leadership team, contributing to strategic planning and staff engagement initiatives

About You:

• Proven leadership experience in social media or digital content strategy within a large, complex organisation
• Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver audience-focused, insight-driven campaigns
• Strong skill in translating complex information into engaging, shareable content
• Experience advising executive-level stakeholders on digital reputation and strategic visibility
• Highly proficient in social media monitoring, analysis, and reporting tools
• Skilled in crisis communication and reputational risk management online
• Exceptional team leadership and stakeholder collaboration skills
• Familiarity with higher education, public sector, or non-profit environments is a plus

Why Apply?

• Shape a newly created role with the autonomy to drive strategic direction
• Lead a talented team and unify efforts across a high-profile institution
• Bring digital storytelling to life and make a tangible impact on public engagement with research, education, and innovation
• Join a values-led environment where creativity, leadership, and vision are valued