head of communications

The specific duties of a head of communications include:

• strategic planning: you are responsible for devising and implementing a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with the company's objectives.
• team management: you lead and mentor a team of communication professionals, so it is crucial to ensure projects are executed effectively.
• crisis management: should any public relations crisis emerge, you are the frontline defence, formulating responses and managing the company's reputation.

The work environment for a head of communications is dynamic. Typically housed within corporate offices, you often find yourself in meetings, brainstorming sessions, or media briefings. Depending on the organisation's size and sector, you may have a dedicated communications department or a more compact team. The role is collaborative. You constantly liaise with other departments like marketing, HR, and even finance, ensuring that all communication aligns with the company's ethos. Modern tech tools, from digital analytics to project management software, become your best friends, aiding in strategy formulation and execution. While the job can be demanding, with occasional long hours, especially during product launches or crises, the gratification of seeing successful communication campaigns makes it worth the effort.

As a head of communications, your colleagues span across the organisational chart. Directly, you manage a team of communication specialists, content writers and creators, and PR professionals. But beyond your immediate team, you frequently collaborate with marketing managers and other members of the marketing department, ensuring that promotional strategies are communicated effectively. The human resources team might seek your expertise in employee engagement initiatives, ensuring internal communications are transparent and morale-boosting.

The executive leadership, including the chief executive officer (CEO) and chief operations officer (COO), will often be in touch, seeking your insights on strategic communication and reputation management. Then there are external colleagues: PR agencies, media personnel, and sometimes even influencers or brand ambassadors, with whom you'd engage for various campaigns or events. In essence, the role is deeply interconnected, ensuring you never work in isolation but are always in sync with various stakeholders.

The work schedule for a head of communications usually aligns with typical corporate hours, starting around 9 am and wrapping up by 6 pm. However, flexibility is key. With product launches, press conferences, or unforeseen crises, some days might stretch longer. If your company operates globally, you might also find yourself catering to different time zones, occasionally requiring early morning or late-night calls. Thankfully, most organisations value work-life balance, allowing for remote work or flexible hours when the job permits. Weekend work is rare but can be anticipated during significant campaigns or events.

The job outlook for a head of communications is promising. With the rising importance of brand image and the digital transformation of businesses, the need for effective communication leaders is paramount. Companies, both established and startups, realise the value of a consistent and influential brand voice. This appreciation translates to growing opportunities in various sectors.

As businesses expand their reach, both domestically and internationally, they seek seasoned professionals who can cater to diverse audiences and cultures. Opportunities aren't restricted to corporations alone. NGOs, government bodies, and educational institutions increasingly value communication, opening diverse avenues for professionals. For those in the role, there's potential upward mobility. With experience and proven expertise, transitioning into broader leadership roles, such as chief marketing officers (CMOs) or even CEOs, is not uncommon.

Finding your head of communications job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:

• a wide variety of training and development opportunities
• an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
• a range of opportunities in your area
• get paid on a monthly basis
• temporary and permanent contracts

Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a head of communications is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!

While a PR background can be beneficial, what's more important is an understanding of strategic communication, leadership, and industry knowledge.

A head of communications oversees broader strategies encompassing internal, external, and digital communication, while a PR Manager specifically focuses on public image and media relations.

While there are desk-based tasks, a significant portion involves collaboration, meetings, and networking events.

While not always mandatory, a master's degree can enhance career prospects, offering advanced skills and networking opportunities.

Understanding the nuances of your industry ensures tailored, effective communication strategies, making it quite crucial.

Applying for a head of communications job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!