Interim Director Of Communications

Interim Director of Communications

Location: St James's, London (Hybrid Working)
Rate: 67.36 per hour
Contract: Interim Assignment until November 2026

We are seeking an exceptional communications leader for a high–profile international organisation based in central London. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic Communications Division, shape media strategy at the highest level, and act as the organisation's principal spokesperson.

Reporting directly to the Secretary–General, the successful candidate will provide strategic communications counsel to senior leadership, oversee a broad range of media and public affairs activity, and lead an experienced communications team in delivering impactful engagement across international audiences.

This role requires a highly credible communications professional with extensive experience operating within complex political, governmental, international or public sector environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation and evaluation of the organisation's external communications and media strategy.
• Serve as the official spokesperson for the organisation and its Secretary–General.
• Provide expert strategic advice on media relations, reputation management and public affairs.
• Manage media responses to sensitive, high–profile and politically complex issues.
• Lead and develop a Communications Division of approximately 20 communications professionals.
• Oversee all press office functions, including media enquiries, press releases, speeches, statements and opinion pieces.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior journalists, editors, broadcasters and media stakeholders.
• Drive excellence in digital communications, social media engagement and online content strategy.
• Support senior leaders with media briefings, public appearances and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Manage departmental budgets, resources and performance to ensure delivery of strategic objectives.

• Represent the organisation externally, including attendance at international events and conferences as required.

About You
To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• A postgraduate qualification and/or significant professional experience in communications, media, public relations, journalism or international relations.
• Significant senior communications leadership experience, including substantial international media experience.
• Experience advising senior political leaders, government ministers, executives or equivalent high–profile stakeholders.
• A background in journalism with experience working for a national or major media outlet.
• Demonstrable expertise in crisis communications and reputation management at a senior level.
• Proven experience managing complex, politically sensitive media issues.
• Strong relationships across national and international media networks.
• Exceptional writing skills, with the ability to produce and place high–quality opinion pieces, statements and media content at pace.
• Outstanding presentation and spokesperson capabilities.
• Experience leading large press office or communications functions.
• Strong understanding of digital communications, social media and audience engagement strategies.
• A collaborative leadership style with experience developing high–performing teams.

What's on Offer
Opportunity to work in a highly visible international leadership role with significant influence and impact.