Do you share our ambition to become the essential partner for industry leaders, driving action and sparking change? About the role You will be working directly with the Chief Executive and Executive team leading our external communications across the whole organisation. You will be responsible for managing and overseeing IGD’s communication strategies, public relations, and external affairs. This role will help us grow IGD’s profile and expertise through B2B comms and leading successful communication campaigns. The position is critical for developing and executing comprehensive communication plans that support IGD’s objectives, enhance its reputation, and engage stakeholders effectively. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will have the following direct reports: Social Impact Communications Manager Corporate Communications Manager Social Media Specialist The responsibilities Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive communications and external affairs strategy aligned with IGD’s vision and goals Provide strategic counsel to the executive team on communications and external affairs matters Monitor industry trends and policy developments to proactively address potential impacts on IGD External Affairs: Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government departments, agencies, and industry associations Maintain relationships with Corporate Affairs Directors or Members Bring IGD’s convening power to life through strong influencing and inter-personal skills Media Relations: Enhance IGD’s reputation through proactive public relations campaigns Build and maintain relationships with key media outlets and journalists Oversee proactive media outreach and responses to media enquiries Manage crisis communications and ensure IGD’s messaging is consistent and effective Stakeholder Engagement Work collaboratively with IGD Internal Communications Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, industry associations, and community groups Develop and implement strategies for effective stakeholder engagement and management Monitor and analyse stakeholder feedback to inform strategic decision-making Digital and Social Media: Oversee the organisation’s digital communication strategies including social media, and online campaigns Monitor digital and social media trends to enhance IGD’s online presence What you bring Experience in the food industry would be helpful as would sustainability communications Strategic thinking: Ability to develop and implement long-term communication strategies aligned with business goals Leadership: Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a team Communication: Exceptional ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively Stakeholder management: Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders Crisis management: Ability to handle communication crises calmly and effectively. Analytical Skills: Strong analytical skills with the ability to measure and report on communication effectiveness The rewards We offer a range of benefits, including a market-leading pension, a bonus scheme, the ability to buy and sell annual leave plus a generous medical insurance package At IGD, we have a great work-life balance, where you are empowered & trusted to manage your time. The location We are operating a hybrid approach to working with a mix of home and office-based working. We are based in a very accessible location within the M25, just 20 miles from central London. More about our people We’re looking for inspiring professionals; talented people who seek personal and career growth and are ambitious to develop their potential and unlock opportunities for society, for our customers and themselves. We seek and attract the very best people and create an environment that supports and includes them. We aim to encourage a culture where people can be themselves and be valued for their contribution. We therefore welcome applications from diverse candidates. This includes people with disabilities, so please discuss any adjustments that you may require throughout the selection and assessment process. More about IGD IGD is a truly unique place, we connect and inspire, provoking and leading constructive debate that creates impact. Together we are working to make a tangible difference for Society, Business, and the Individual. We use in-depth commercial understanding to uncover rich insights and data, leading to action that powers success. We reinvest profit from our Trading company into delivering Social Impact, through the Charity, aimed at uniting and mobilising our industry around the most crucial issues affecting society and business today. InspireGrowChange: Join our team to help us make a positive impact and drive change. Get in touch – we’re looking forward to working with you. careersigd.com