Head of Communications (VA631)

We have an opportunity for a Head of Communications to join our Marketing and Business Development team. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy and suite of plans (external and internal) for Carey Olsen.

This role can be based in either of our London or Jersey offices.

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Principal duties:

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External Communications

• Create and oversee the delivery of a comprehensive external communication strategy and plan that:
  • directly aligns with and supports Carey Olsen's strategy and business development and marketing goals across markets, sectors and practice areas,
  • raises the awareness and understanding of the Carey Olsen brand – in both established and growth markets.
• Develop the firm's social media strategy and tone of voice. Enhance employee engagement and advocacy grow follower numbers through high-quality content.
• Collaborate with Carey Olsen's Brand and Digital team to ensure consistent messaging across paid channels.
• Manage external agency relationships (content aggregator and distribution channels) that are engaged to raise the brand, profile and reach of Carey Olsen in key markets.
• Define and track comms KPIs and provide regular insight and reporting
• Develop and leverage a comprehensive media relations network, creating opportunities to position and promote the Carey Olsen brand and offering.
• Manage a team of 2 Communications Professionals, day to day activities and tasks for the Communications team include:
  • Drafting and issuing a rolling programme of firm, deal and people related news / press releases,
  • Pitching news stories to key media,
  • Drafting communications in support of key achievements in the legal directories and other leading industry publications
  • Drafting award submissions, and associated PR / comms,
• Identify opportunities for thought leadership content to reinforce Carey Olsen's position as trusted advisors and subject matter experts.
• Advise Carey Olsen's leadership team and lead on crisis communications and reputation risk management (if / as necessary).

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Internal Communications

• Develop and implement an internal communications strategy and plan to ensure everyone working at Carey Olsen understands the firm's vision, goals, plans and key achievements.
• As required, work closely with Managing Partners and Group Services Directors (Marketing, HR, Technology, Finance, Project Office and Knowledge) to design and roll out communications programmes in support of group, office, departmental and functional business plans.
• Leverage existing and develop new internal communication tools and platforms (including Intranet, Webinars, Town Halls)
• Lead on the communications aspects of the firm's CSR, DE&I, Wellbeing and Alumni initiatives.

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Experience

• 10+ years' experience in a senior communications role in an international professional services firm (legal or accountancy).
• Solid understanding of the legal / financial sector and services. 
• Demonstrable track report of creating and implementing high impact communication strategies and initiatives that:

• Drive brand awareness and market positioning in global markets
• Support employee understanding, alignment and engagement with business goals and objectives.

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Professional qualifications

• Graduate level (2:1 or higher) 
• CIPR / CIM qualification or equivalent professional qualification 

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Personal characteristics

• Excellent interpersonal, written, presentation and verbal communication skills
• Excellent drafting skills, combined with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment with quick turn-around time and attention to detail 
• Ability to develop close working relationships and gain the trust of the Carey Olsen senior leadership team and other senior stakeholders across regions
• Excellent team / leadership skills (manage 2 communication professionals)
• Solid understanding of full suite of marketing communication channels (PR, social, digital and content marketing