Communications Officer

About York St John University

York St John is a modern and ambitious university located in the historic city of York. It is among the fastest-growing universities in the UK and is focused on widening access to education, fostering social impact, and contributing positively to the region. The university emphasizes inspirational learning and impactful research as central to its mission.

Team Overview

The Communications team operates within the Marketing, Student Recruitment and Admissions Directorate, responsible for attracting applicants, communicating with students and alumni, and delivering university events.

Role Summary

The Communications Officer will join a dynamic and purposeful environment to support the University for Social Impact strategy. Reporting to the Head of Communications and Media Relations, this role involves understanding the needs of staff and student audiences to effectively share key messages, promote university achievements, highlight community contributions, and showcase research influence. This position encompasses responsibilities in both internal communications and external media relations, ensuring students feel heard, supported, and informed.

Key Responsibilities

• Crafting clear and compelling messages tailored to diverse audiences.
• Deploying digital communications across multiple platforms.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with media contacts, community stakeholders, university staff, and students.
• Coordinating and delivering communications with creativity and inclusivity.
• Supporting colleagues in applying the University's brand guidelines and communication tone consistently.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven professional experience in developing impactful copy and shaping messages for various audiences.
• Strong digital communication skills across multiple platforms.
• Ability to handle both internal and external communication responsibilities effectively.
• Creativity and inclusiveness in communication strategies.
• Experience in higher education is desirable but not essential; a proven track record in delivering engaging communication campaigns and providing strategic advice is highly valued.

Additional Information

The role offers a full-time, permanent position based on-site in York with an annual salary ranging from £31,236 to £33,951. The university encourages applications from individuals with the right to work in the UK, though Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship is not provided. Flexible working arrangements, job shares, and family-friendly policies are supported to promote an inclusive workforce. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and may close early if sufficient interest is received.

Applicants requiring reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process are encouraged to contact the university for support.

Benefits

• Excellent annual leave entitlement, including five discretionary closure days over Christmas.
• Disability leave provisions.
• Pension scheme participation.
• Health Cash Plan eligibility after six months of service.
• Employee Assistance Programme access.
• Paid leave for Armed Forces Reservists.
• Access to on-campus and online training to enhance digital skills.
• Relocation expenses package available for specific roles.
• Reimbursement or loan schemes for Skilled Worker Visa fees where applicable.

Recruitment Process

The selection involves an interview stage and further details will be communicated to shortlisted candidates. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 5 August 2026, with interviews provisionally planned for Wednesday 26 August 2026.