Strategic Communications Response Lead

Strategic Communications Response Lead Full Time / Remote / FTC - 6 months contract £DOE All candidates need to attach a full and relevant CV to be considered Closing Date: 26th June 2026 or until the right candidate is hired Purpose of Role: This role provides dedicated leadership and coordination of incident, media, regulatory and stakeholder communications within a fast-moving and often sensitive operational environment. During any period of heightened operational and reputational risk, the postholder will ensure that all high-risk situations are managed with speed, clarity and control. They will lead the development of consistent, well-judged communications that protect the organisation’s reputation, support operational teams, and maintain confidence among colleagues, regulators, partners and external stakeholders. The role also creates capacity within the wider communications team, enabling a stronger focus on proactive reputation-building and strategic priorities. Key Accountabilities: Take ownership of communications relating to operational incidents across the organisation Lead triage, prioritisation and response handling for emerging issues Develop clear, timely and consistent messaging for internal and external audiences Ensure all communications are aligned, accurate and appropriately risk-managed Provide calm, decisive support to operational teams during live incidents Lead communications support for Taskforce (Lanark) activity and related developments Coordinate messaging across multiple stakeholders to ensure consistency and control Support management of sensitive and high-profile issues, including those attracting media or regulatory attention Work closely with senior stakeholders to ensure alignment on approach and messaging Support the handling of media enquiries, including reactive responses and statements Ensure consistency of messaging across external partners, including Palatine and other stakeholders Contribute to protecting and strengthening the organisation’s external reputation during periods of scrutiny Strengthen processes for incident communications, improving speed, clarity and accountability Reduce reliance on senior escalation for routine issues by enabling confident, high-quality responses Maintain clear records and oversight of communications activity across incidents and issues Identify opportunities to improve communication frameworks, templates and guidance Act as a key point of ownership for reactive communications activity Reduce pressure on the wider communications team, enabling focus on proactive and strategic initiatives Provide support and guidance to colleagues handling lower-risk issues Essential Experience: Significant experience in crisis, incident or corporate communications Strong track record of managing high-risk, fast-moving issues Experience handling media enquiries and developing external messaging Exceptional written and verbal communication skills Ability to operate calmly and decisively under pressure Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills at a senior level High levels of judgement, discretion and attention to detail Desirable Experience: Experience within a regulated or high-scrutiny environment Experience managing communications during reputational or safeguarding-related issues Understanding of multi-site operational organisations Personal attributes: Demonstrates consistent behaviours aligned with our HEART principles, acting with Honesty, Excellence, Accountability and Respect in all interactions, decisions and ways of working. Calm, confident and resilient under pressure Pragmatic and solutions-focused Highly organised with strong prioritisation skills Collaborative and adaptable Strong sense of accountability and ownership Bright Horizons is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to safer recruitment practice and pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check, which will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all backgrounds to apply. We will consider reasonable adjustments required by applicants. If you share our passion, values, and have most of the skills listed, we encourage you to apply – as you may be just what we are looking for! We look forward to receiving your application! If you experience any problems, please email [email protected] and we will be happy to help. Apply To This Job