Head of Communications

(This role is known internally as Associate Director, Communications)

The Cambridge Trust opens doors to the University of Cambridge for talented students from every corner of the world. More than 22,000 scholars from 149 countries have studied here with the Trust’s support. Every one of them carries a story worth telling.

We’re looking for a communications leader who can bring those stories to life, shape how the Trust shows its impact and strengthen how it connects with scholars, partners and the wider public. If you love turning strategy into clear messaging, enjoy making data meaningful and want your work to support something bigger than yourself, this could be your next step.

The role:

As Head of Communications and Storytelling, you’ll lead the Trust’s external voice. You’ll take ownership of the communications strategy, develop campaigns that show the value of a Cambridge Trust scholarship and make sure our digital channels feel fresh, accessible and true to our mission. You’ll help people understand not just what the Trust does, but why it matters.

This is a visible role with plenty of scope to shape direction. You’ll lead brand development, guide colleagues on best practice, support the Trust’s new alumni community and oversee an annual events programme that brings scholars, partners and supporters together.

It’s a great fit for someone who enjoys building, refining and elevating communications in an organisation that’s moving forward.

What you’ll lead:

Communications and campaigns

You’ll design and deliver an integrated communications plan that reaches the right people in the right way. You’ll translate strategic priorities into clear messages, develop campaigns that drive engagement and make sure the Trust’s offer is understood across the UK and beyond.

Digital presence and performance

You’ll take the lead on the website, social media and other digital platforms, making them more engaging and representative of our values. You’ll use analytics to understand what works, what doesn’t and where to focus attention.

Storytelling with impact at the centre

You’ll weave evidence of impact into the Trust’s communications. You won’t need to be a data scientist, but you will need to be comfortable turning data into stories that resonate with a wide range of audiences.

Events that build connection

With support from our Communications and Events Coordinator, you’ll oversee an annual programme of events for key stakeholders, scholars and partners.

Brand stewardship and reputation

You’ll act as custodian of the Cambridge Trust brand. You’ll help colleagues represent it with confidence, ensure consistency across channels and manage sensitive communications when needed.

Leadership

You’ll build capability within your team and contribute to a collaborative culture across the Trust. You’ll role-model good judgement, curiosity and a focus on results.

What you’ll bring:

You don't need to tick every box to apply, but you should feel confident in most of the following:

• Senior communications experience in education, research, social impact or another mission-driven environment.
• A track record in developing and delivering communications strategies and campaigns.
• Strong digital skills, including managing websites, CMS platforms and social media.
• Experience using analytics to inform decisions and improve performance.
• The ability to translate complex ideas into clear, accessible messages.
• Confidence writing for different audiences and formats.
• A natural storyteller who understands how to turn data and insight into narratives with real meaning.
• Experience managing events.
• Strong judgement, especially around brand and reputational issues.
• A collaborative style, with the ability to build trust across teams and external partners.

If you care about education, enjoy working with purpose and want your work to help people feel seen, supported and inspired, you’ll do well here.

Why this role matters:

Every scholar funded by the Trust brings potential, ambition and a story that deserves to be heard. You’ll help share those stories, strengthen how they’re told and support a mission that changes lives and enriches Cambridge and communities around the world.

How to apply

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

The role closes on Dec 4th.

More information can be found in the candidate pack on the website. Click on the link