Digital Communications and Design Manager

The manager will lead digital design and communications, creating high-quality brand assets and managing social media channels to support advocacy priorities. They will also oversee publication design, website management, and the implementation of data-driven digital strategies.

Responsibilities

• Act as design lead for the Russell Group, creating website and social media content and high‑quality brand assets such as infographics, video briefings and reports.
• Develop and oversee the Russell Group ‘house style’ for all publications and digital assets, ensuring consistent visual identity.
• Maintain core digital and design assets including templates, photo/video library, and ensure consistent branding across platforms.
• Manage day‑to‑day operation of social media channels, tailoring content for each platform and optimising reach and engagement.
• Plan and deliver proactive social media and web campaigns aligned with advocacy priorities, collaborating with media, public affairs, data and policy teams.
• Support paid digital campaigns, implementing and optimising spend in line with strategic goals.
• Oversee publication design, managing external contractors for large‑scale outputs.
• Support day‑to‑day management and development of the Russell Group website and microsites.
• Build relationships with communications teams across member universities to curate high‑quality case studies and visual content.
• Monitor digital strategy and content performance, using data‑driven insights to refine approaches.
• Stay current with social media and digital communications trends, including emerging approaches such as Generative Engine Optimisation.
• Help colleagues develop digital and social media skills, acting as a digital advocate.
• Monitor and manage authorised use of brand assets by members and external stakeholders.
• Participate in the integrated External Relations team and undertake on‑call rota duties as needed.
• Manage data in accordance with the Russell Group's data protection policies.

Requirements

• Strong professional expertise in digital content production, publication design, and social media management (political, public sector, charity or business environment).
• Hands‑on media production skills such as photo and video editing.
• Proven track record of devising and delivering digital strategies and communicating with diverse online audiences.
• Experience developing and implementing a ‘house style’ to ensure design and brand consistency.
• Expertise in publication design and graphic‑design platforms.
• Ability to manage a challenging, varied portfolio, meet tight deadlines and work cooperatively within a small team.
• Previous experience in a fast‑paced communications environment (advantage).
• Knowledge of higher education, research & innovation sector and UK political context (advantage).

Benefits

• USS defined benefit pension scheme with 14.5% employer contribution
• 25 days annual leave (increasing to a maximum of 30 days)
• Discretionary closure days at Easter and Christmas
• Private healthcare insurance
• Monthly learning sessions (lunch and learn) with external speakers
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Interest‑free travelcard loans
• Cycle scheme
• Flexibility to work from home up to two days per week

Key Skills