Director of Communications

Job Description: Director of Communications About New West End CompanyNew West End Company is a global business partnership of 600 retail, restaurant, hotel and property owners in the world’s top shopping and leisure destination. We work across 74 streets, anchored by Bond Street, Oxford Street and Regent Street, representing 175,000 employees. We work in partnership delivering transformational projects, sustainable place management, destination marketing, advocacy, inward investment and commercial insights.Job PurposeWe are seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Communications to lead New West End Company’s corporate and public affairs agenda. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the postholder will provide strategic direction across corporate communications, media relations, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy. The Director will also lead New West End Company in the next bid term, with the inclusion of offices as part of our membership.This role will report into the Chief Executive Officer and work closely with them and the wider leadership team to build a strong, consistent narrative for New West End Company, ensuring our messaging reaches key audiences including members, partners, government bodies, and the media. This role also oversees the delivery of public affairs (outsourced) and corporate affairs functions, ensuring alignment with business priorities and measurable impact.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipProvide senior leadership as part of the SLT, role modelling company values and ensuring alignment with the wider corporate strategyCoach, develop, and empower direct reports to achieve exceptional performance and professional growthLead strategic planning for communications and advocacy, ensuring clarity of direction, measurable objectives, and financial disciplineOwn and manage the advocacy and communications budget, working closely with Finance to ensure accurate reporting and value for money.Corporate & Public AffairsOversee all corporate communications, ensuring consistent, engaging messaging across media, digital, internal and external channelsLead New West End Company’s media relations, acting as spokesperson for day-to-day communications and ensuring the effective delivery of our media strategyPartner with our public affairs agency to develop and deliver a compelling Public Affairs plan endorsed by the Board and Public Affairs Steering GroupBuild and maintain strong relationships with key partners and stakeholders, including Westminster City Council, GLA/TfL/London & Partners, Government departments, and member organisationsSupport the CEO on major campaigns, announcements, and advocacy priorities, exploiting all media and communications channels for maximum impact.Internal Communications & EngagementDevelop and implement an internal communications strategy that enhances employee engagement and team cohesionSupport the CEO and SLT in cascading key messages and fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration.Governance & ReportingPrepare reports and updates for governance cycles and ad hoc Board or steering group meetings.Provide strategic updates on campaign performance, communications outcomes, and public affairs activityContribute to the creation and development of the Mayoral Development Corporation for Oxford Street, offering communications and strategic input.External RepresentationRepresent New West End Company at industry events, forums, and media engagements (occasionally outside standard working hours)Act as an ambassador for the organisation, promoting its reputation and impact within the West End and beyond.RequirementsExperience in a Director role and proven strategic leadership experience including developing and delivering integrated communication and advocacy strategies within a similar industry.Strong media relations expertise, including experience acting as a spokesperson, managing press engagement, and developing effective media strategiesExcellent copywriting and editorial skills, with the ability to craft clear, persuasive, and high-quality content for multiple audiences and channelsExceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy across all outputsDemonstrated success in stakeholder engagement, particularly with senior figures across government, business, and community sectorsFamiliarity with London’s political and business landscape, including Westminster City Council, GLA, and TfLExperience in public affairs, with a solid understanding of UK government and local authority structures and decision-making processesConfident project and budget manager, able to oversee multiple priorities, monitor performance, and ensure value for moneyExperience leading and managing external agencies or suppliers, ensuring delivery against clear objectives and KPIsStrong digital communications capability, including managing corporate websites and social media channelsSkilled in internal communications, developing strategies that engage and align teams with the organisation’s vision and cultureExceptional presentation and interpersonal skills, able to represent the organisation confidently across a range of high-profile forumsHigh degree of political awareness, judgement, and discretion.Benefits25 days holiday + 1 extra day for your birthday + UK Bank HolidaysHoliday purchase schemeLearning & development budgetDiscretionary annual bonus schemeAccess to BUPA private health insurance (including 24/7 online GP appointments)Enhanced maternity & paternity leavePension contribution matched up to 5%Group Life AssuranceAnnual paid volunteering daysWellbeing perksCycle to work and season ticket loan schemesFor further information, please contact Kristina Abela (People and Culture Manager) via email at kristina.abela@newwestend.com.New West End Company is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from all backgrounds.By submitting your application, you agree that New West End Company may process and store your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy. We will retain your details for up to 12 months for future job opportunities unless you request deletion sooner. You can withdraw your consent at any time by contacting Kristina Abela via email at kristina.abela@newwestend.com.