Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre
Head of External Affairs
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About the organisation:
Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre are the membership bodies for the theatre sector, representing producers, managers, owners and operators across London's West End and the wider UK. Under joint Co-Chief Executives, the organisations are delivering a new three-year strategy to strengthen their voice, influence and impact on behalf of a shared staff team of around 60 and their members. Theatre generates £2.39bn in GVA and supports 205,000 jobs across the UK – the value SOLT & UK Theatre exists to protect and grow.
The opportunity:
This is a business-critical opportunity to lead SOLT & UK Theatre's external affairs function at a pivotal time for the sector. Reporting to the Director of Membership & External Affairs, you will shape and deliver an integrated advocacy, policy, public affairs and communications strategy, ensuring theatre's voice is represented at the highest levels of government, industry and public life. The role brings together public affairs and policy with media relations and communications: you will advise the Co-Chief Executives, Presidents and Boards on political, policy and reputational issues, build the relationships that help create the conditions for theatres to thrive, and lead a talented team to turn advocacy priorities into measurable influence and impact for members.
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Main responsibilities:
- Lead the development and delivery of SOLT & UK Theatre's advocacy, policy, public affairs and communications strategies
- Provide strategic advice to the Co-Chief Executives, Executive Team, Presidents and Boards on policy, political and reputational matters
- Build and maintain relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, civil servants and other political stakeholders
- Lead the organisations' approach to reputation management, issues management and crisis communications
- Develop and deliver a media strategy that raises the profile of SOLT & UK Theatre as an authoritative voice for the sector
- Lead, motivate and develop the External Affairs team
- Represent SOLT & UK Theatre at external meetings, conferences and parliamentary receptions
Key skills and experience required:
- Significant senior-level experience in external affairs, public affairs, policy, advocacy or stakeholder engagement
- Demonstrable experience influencing public policy and political decision-making
- Strong understanding of UK Government, Parliament, local government and policy-making processes
- Experience building and managing relationships with senior stakeholders, including government officials and industry leaders
- Experience of using data, research and insight to develop compelling narratives, inform policy positions and strengthen advocacy and influencing activity.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with experience of media relations and reputation management
- Experience managing and developing staff, with strong project and budget management skills
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How to apply:
To apply, please submit the form below and include a copy of your CV. Application deadline: Friday 28th August.
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Our purpose is to create important and enduring relationships. We are an equal opportunities employer and promote diversity across our profession to ensure every individual has the opportunity to perform at their best. If you have not done so already, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.
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