Associate Director of Advocacy and Communications

Join RCOT as an Associate Director of Advocacy and Communications

The RCOT’s Practice, Innovation and Advocacy Directorate exists to ensure occupational therapy has a strong, credible and influential voice in the UK and beyond. We’re now looking for a senior communications leader to shape how we influence policy, engage members and position the profession.

As Associate Director of Advocacy & Communications, you’ll set and deliver RCOT’s strategic communications direction—aligning advocacy, policy and professional leadership into one clear, authoritative voice. Reporting to the Director of Practice, Innovation and Advocacy, you’ll be the principal communications adviser to the CEO and a key member of our Senior Leadership Team.

You will: Develop and deliver an integrated communications strategy that advances RCOT’s policy priorities Lead media relations, campaigns and crisis communications to enhance RCOT’s profile and reputation Drive impactful advocacy and social media activity that builds influence and member pride Advise senior leaders on strategic messaging, risk and opportunity Build and design our profile and campaigns and policy teams to deliver high impact, evidence-led campaigns.

You bring: Senior level experience in strategic communications, media and campaigns Strong political and reputational judgement in complex environments Deep understanding of digital and social media strategy A collaborative, confident leadership style.

Why this role? This is a rare opportunity to shape national conversations, influence decision-makers and lead the voice of a profession that changes lives every day, improving people's health and wellbeing.

Location: London-based, hybrid working

Contract: 12 months, fixed-term full time (35 hours a week)

Salary: circa £80k

Full detail of the role can be found here Vacancies at RCOT | RCOT Ready to apply? Follow the link below and remember to attach your CV and cover letter in the ‘Statement of Suitability’ section. Associate Director of Advocacy and Communications Application form

Closing date: 5 pm, Friday 29 May 2026 First Interviews: 10 June 2026

If you have any questions, get in touch with us at people.culture@rcot.co.uk