Head of Communications

EMBL - European Molecular Biology Laboratory

Heidelberg, Germany

Staff Category: Staff Member  
Contract Duration: 5 years 
Grading: 9 
Closing Date: 30 March 2014 
Reference Number: HD_00466

Job Description

The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) is one of the highest ranked scientific research organisations in the world. The Headquarters Laboratory is located in Heidelberg (Germany), with additional sites in Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Hinxton (UK) and Monterotondo (Italy).

EMBL is seeking an outstanding individual to lead and manage all communications and public relations activities at EMBL.

The Head of Communications reports to the Director International Relations and is responsible for the development and execution of the EMBL communication strategy. He/she conceives, oversees and implements a broad range of integrated communication activities reflecting the laboratory’s missions and strategic direction. These activities are targeted at both internal and external audiences at all five EMBL sites in Europe and aim to promote, enhance and protect EMBL’s reputation. Targeted initiatives also support an active communication network between EMBL and its alumni, scientific partners, collaborators, research organisations and industry.

More specific responsibilities include:

• Manage a team of nine communication professionals, promote a culture of high performance, stimulate initiative and provide strategic guidance and opportunities to develop;
• Oversee and produce print materials such as the EMBL Annual Report, the EMBL newsletter, the Research at a Glance and other periodicals and promotional materials;
• Manage all web and online communications: EMBL websites (Internet and Intranet), the websites for EIROforum and Science in School and social media interactions;
• Oversee all international media relations to ensure coverage surrounding EMBL’s research activities, special events and public announcements;
• Serve as a communications counsellor to the Director General and EMBL leadership;
• Liaise closely with other departments to ensure that EMBL presents a consistent image in all its activities;
• Collaborate with EIROforum and other related research organisations;
• Exploit new communication trends to advance EMBL’s reputation and identity and explore relevant funding sources;
• Monitor the impact and success of EMBL’s communications activities;
• Manage the departmental budget according to the EMBL financial rules.

Qualifications and Experience

The successful candidate for this appointment will have at least 10-15 years of experience working in science-related communications and public relations including extensive people management experience within a performance driven organisation. For this appointment a university degree in the life sciences combined with an advanced qualification in communications is needed. The post holder must have an excellent command of spoken and written English and German with good working knowledge of French as an asset.

The ideal candidate has in-depth knowledge and experience of corporate communications in an international science-based environment in the public or private sector and an international network of science communication and media contacts. Required skills include: Proven experience in writing, editing and production; a keen sense for aesthetics and design and attention to detail; and extensive understanding and experience of technical aspects of websites and other digital platforms.

The Head of Communications should be action-oriented, responsible and autonomous, creative and willing to take initiative, and continuously improvement-minded. Superior management and communication capabilities as well as a transparent and team-oriented work ethic are essential requirements. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills within a multi-national context, including discretion, diplomacy and tolerance are key attributes.

Application Instructions

Please apply online through www.embl.org/jobs.

Additional Information

EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation. Please note that appointments on fixed term contracts can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of the review.