Internal Communications (Student Engagement) Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Role
Students sit at the centre of everything the University of Reading does. We are now looking for an experienced and thoughtful communications professional to lead how we engage, inform, and connect with students throughout their time at the University.
As Internal Communications (Student Engagement) Manager, you will shape and deliver a clear, coordinated approach to student-facing communications. Your work will support teaching and learning, enhance the student experience, and ensure students can easily access the information and services they need—when they need them.
This is a highly visible role that plays a key part in building trust, clarity, and meaningful engagement between students and the institution.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Leading the planning and delivery of student-focused internal communications across the University
- Developing evidence-led engagement strategies that support student experience priorities
- Advising senior leaders on messaging, tone, accessibility, and channel selection
- Ensuring communications are consistent and aligned across the full student journey
- Designing and delivering targeted campaigns, including institution-wide surveys and major engagement initiatives
- Working closely with Student Services, Reading Students’ Union, and academic colleagues
- Managing the Internal Communications (Student Engagement) Officer
- Leading cross-disciplinary project teams and providing quality assurance for student communications
About You
You’ll be a strong fit for this role if you bring:
- Substantial experience in communications, engagement, and stakeholder management
- A proven track record of delivering high-impact, multi-channel communication campaigns
- A strong understanding of the higher education environment and the challenges facing undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Confidence working with senior leaders and influencing at all levels
- The ability to manage complex issues and competing priorities under pressure
- Excellent planning, project management, and organisational skills
- Outstanding written communication and copywriting ability
- The capability to translate strategic goals into clear, practical delivery
Working Arrangements
This role sits within the Communications & Engagement function of the External Relations Directorate and works closely with colleagues across communications, marketing, and engagement.
The University supports hybrid working, with an expectation that the majority of working time will be spent on the Whiteknights campus, supporting strong collaboration and connection.
Visa Information
Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker visa route, applicants who may require sponsorship are advised to review eligibility independently. Visa options will only be discussed with candidates invited to interview.
 Skilled Worker visa guidance
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Reading is committed to building an inclusive and supportive workplace. We proudly support the Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ equality, and we are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working are welcomed and considered in line with business needs.
Useful External & Government Resources
You may find the following resources helpful when considering this role:
- Office for Students – student engagement and experience
- UK higher education policy and regulation
- Accessible communications guidance (public sector)
- National Student Survey (NSS)
