Digit Research Communications & Impact Manager(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The ESRC Centre for Digital Futures at Work (Digit) is looking for a Research Communications & Impact Manager to lead and deliver its engagement and communications strategy.

Digit is a major research centre focused on understanding how digital technologies are transforming the world of work. This role is central to ensuring that its research reaches and influences key audiences—including policymakers, businesses, trade unions, and wider society.

As part of the Centre’s leadership team, you will shape how research is communicated, ensuring it is accessible, impactful, and widely used. You will also oversee stakeholder engagement and track the real-world impact of the Centre’s work.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Develop and deliver the Centre’s communications and impact strategy
  Lead on engagement with stakeholders across policy, industry, and academia
  Manage and evaluate the impact of research activities
  Oversee communications outputs, including events, publications, and digital content
  Translate complex research findings into clear, engaging messages
  Organise and manage events that connect researchers with external audiences
  Work closely with partner institutions and organisations across the UK and internationally

About the Programme

Digit is a collaborative research centre funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). It brings together leading universities and organisations to study the changing nature of work in a digital economy.

The Centre is jointly led by the University of Sussex and the University of Leeds, with partners including institutions in Cambridge, Manchester, and beyond, as well as policy and industry organisations.

Its mission is to generate evidence that informs better decision-making and supports fair and effective transitions in the labour market.

About You

You will be an experienced communications professional with a strong interest in research and its real-world impact.

You should have:

• Proven experience in communications, engagement, or impact roles (ideally in research or higher education)
  Strong project and stakeholder management skills
  Experience organising events and delivering high-quality outputs
  Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  The ability to translate complex ideas into accessible content

You’ll also be collaborative, proactive, and comfortable working across organisations and disciplines.

About the Business School

The University of Sussex Business School provides a supportive and research-driven environment where innovation and collaboration are encouraged.

Its departments span areas such as economics, management, and policy research, with a strong emphasis on producing work that has real-world relevance and impact.

Why Join Sussex?

• Be part of an internationally recognised research programme
  Work with leading academics and external partners
  Contribute to research that shapes policy and practice
  Enjoy a flexible and supportive working environment
  Access professional development opportunities and staff benefits

Visa and Work Eligibility

This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa route, depending on individual circumstances.

For official guidance, please refer to:

• Skilled Worker visa overview
  Eligibility requirements
  Salary and job criteria
  Tradeable points system
  Proving your right to work in the UK

Additional Information

• Interview date: To be confirmed
  All work must be carried out within the UK
  Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds