UK Data ArchiveThe UK Data Archive (located at the main campus in Colchester of the University of Essex) is curator of the UK's largest collection of digital data in the social sciences and humanities and has been a permanent fixture at Essex for 50 years. It is also a key partner in delivering the UK Data Service, an online portal for social science data, documentation and guidance. Both are vital resources for researchers, policymakers, teachers and students around the world. This is an exciting opportunity to manage the Communications team and help shape the future communications and engagement across the UK Data Service and UK Data Archive.
The UK Data Service is funded by the ESRC to provide researchers around the world with free access to high-quality digital data critical for social and economic research. Data in the collection come from a variety of sources including the UK Census, government departments and agencies, businesses, non-governmental organisations, and individual researchers. Users range from academics to a growing number of analysts in business, the civil society sector, and all levels of government.
The Role and DutiesWe are looking for an accomplished and highly motivated Communications Manager who can lead on activities to help the UK Data Service and UK Data Archive reach and engage with the social science data community and other key stakeholders.
This role will provide an opportunity to use and expand your dynamic and innovative communications skills in the fast-growing world of data and research, leading a small but effective Communications and events engagement team.
You will be responsible for coordinating the Communications Strategy for the UK Data Service, including activities to inform and engage data users, data owners and other stakeholders across the UK and overseas, and will have experience setting priorities and managing projects, staff planning, budgets, resources and time. You will lead on day-to-day content management and support for websites and applications used to deliver data and resources, brand management, social media and print publicity.
The successful candidate will manage a small team at the University of Essex and liaise, as part of a wider Outreach function, with the Impact team, User Support and User Training colleagues based at JISC and the University of Manchester. You will work closely with the UKDS Communications Director at Essex to develop and implement wider engagement and promotional activities across key audiences. You will also collaborate with other communications professionals at Essex to promote the work the UK Data Service and UK Data Archive does.
The post will be a full time, fixed-term contract until 31st March 2021. We would consider applications from anyone wishing to work part-time (80% FTE). Please indicate on your application if you wish to be considered for full-or part-time.
Qualifications and skills requiredProven communications skills and experience are essential for this role, as well as knowledge of the wider landscape on communications and publishing within an academic and/or public sector environment. Familiarity with social science research methods and data are highly valued, but not essential.
We particularly welcome applications from those from an ethnic minority as they are under-represented in the UK Data Archive.
At the University of Essex internationalism is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally-oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries and a university where you can find the world in one place.
Please see the further detail link below for a full job description and person specification which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please telephone the Resourcing Team (01206 874588/873521).
*Further detail: Communications and Engagement Manager jobpack*More information: Working at the University