Communications Manager (Smile Train UK)

Title: Communications Manager (Smile Train UK)

Classification: Exempt/ Non-Exempt  

About Smile Train 

Smile Train is the world’s leading cleft focused organization. Our goal is to transform the lives of every person impacted by a cleft lip or palate. We train and support doctors and medical professionals to provide our patients with free, life-changing, comprehensive cleft treatment. Our sustainable model has allowed us to reach more than 2 million children in 75+ countries in the past 25 years, and we still feel like we’ve just started. We are truly changing the world one smile at a time!

Role Summary:

We are looking for a highly skilled Communications Manager to lead and execute communications efforts for Smile Trian UK. Working in close collaboration with Smile Train’s Communications Team in HQ, you will support executing the global communications strategy at the local-level for Smile Train UK to elevate the organization’s global voice and inspire philanthropic engagement.

Through communications excellence and effective management of Smile Train UK’s PR and organic social media, you will amplify the many powerful stories of our cleft treatment and care programs partners, and patients in ways that strengthen connection, elevate understanding, and expand global impact.

If you are passionate about leveraging your communications skills to advocate for Smile Train’s purpose — to empower local medical professionals and create sustainable, long-term solutions for children and families affected by clefts around the world – then this is the right role for you!

This is a full-time, hybrid opportunity starting as soon as possible. You will be based in our London Bridge Office on Wednesdays and Thursdays and there will be periodic travel on a needs basis.

Reports To: UK Fundraising Director

Key Responsibilities:

Execute Smile Train UK communications efforts in alignment with global communications plans and standards to increase awareness of cleft lip and palate and Smile Train.

Align local Smile Train UK public relations plans and media vendor partnerships with the global PR strategy, ensuring agencies align with Smile Train’s goals, brand voice, and strategic priorities.

Manage Smile Train UK media outreach to the press to generate awareness and publish timely news through press release development, media pitches, media alerts, op-eds, etc. in alignment with global standards and priorities

In collaboration with Smile Train headquarters, develop and execute Smile Train UK’s organic social media content and campaigns to enhance engagement, grow reach, and strengthen Smile Train UK’s brand presence across all platforms.

Effectively manage external Smile Train UK PR and organic social media agencies and ensure all activities are completed on time and within budget 

Collaborate with the Smile Train HQ Communications Team to develop global communications campaigns and execute localization for Smile Train UK

Collaborate with the Smile Train HQ Website Team to align UK specific content pages on the Smile Train UK website as required

Collaborate with the Smile Train UK Fundraising Team as needed for communications and content support, including event support (e.g. invites, event materials, speeches, videos) and impact and annual report development.

Support implementation of global brand standards through local alignment of assets, toolkits and messaging with global brand guidelines

Report to senior stakeholders on performance of Smile Train UK’s PR and organic social media

Build and manage Smile Train UK’s PR and organic social media budgets, handle invoice processing, and ensure expenses remain within budget 

Other duties as appropriate for this role.

Supervisory responsibilities: No permanent staff supervisory responsibilities

Required Education and Experience:

5+ years of experience working in a Communications role, with a proven track record of driving PR and organic social media; in the non-profit sector or comparable commercial environment.

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field, although an equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for this required level of education.

Strong understanding of major social media platforms and tools.

Passion for communications and public relations with the ability to connect the dots to drive awareness across the UK.

Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt messages to varied audiences.

Able to take ownership of a process and to use problem solving skills to resolve issues.

Strong team player with excellent professional and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate across a global team.

Effective project manager who is detail-oriented with strong organisational and time management skills.

Experience managing external agencies. 

Able to function both independently and as part of a global team.

Familiar with the Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).

Flexibility to workevenings and weekends when necessary to ensure all external communications are handled efficiently and appropriately.

Passion for Smile Train’s purpose and values.

Preferred Education and Experience:  

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:  

Accountability Expectations: 

Ownership of Outcomes: Take full responsibility for one’s own performance, ensuring alignment with Smile Train’s mission and objectives.

Transparent Communication: Communicate openly and effectively with team members, fostering trust and a shared understanding of expectations and priorities. 

Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrate empathy, understanding, and cultural sensitivity to contribute to an inclusive and supportive team environment.

Empowerment: Effectively communicate with supervisors to ensure you are equipped with the resources, guidance, and autonomy you need to excel in your role 

Team Cohesion: Contribute to a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared accountability, helping the team to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment 

Compensation Range: £40-50   

Travel: Ability to travel, when necessary, for agency partner meetings, organizational events, and periodically as required

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, obligations, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time, with or without notice.

Application Information:  

Smile Train is an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our work and staff. We strongly encourage candidates from all groups and communities to apply. To apply, please complete the application online. Include your CV, and a cover letter that describes why you believe you would be a good fit for Smile Train and this role. We encourage interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.