Head of External Communications & PR

As the Head of External Communications and PR, your primary purpose is to develop and lead external communication strategies that articulate and amplify Vertical’s mission to pioneer zero-emissions aviation. You will help to bring to life our purpose and progress through our technological advancements, and flight test milestones.

Your role is crucial in shaping public perception and building strong media relations that help tell the story of Vertical’s historic mission and bring education and confidence in our technology and industry.

The desired impact is to establish the company as a leader in electric aviation, creating real value for the organisation and ensure transparent and effective communication with all stakeholders.

As the Head of External Communications and PR, you will focus across the following areas:

Strategic Communications Planning:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive external communications strategy that aligns with Vertical’s goals and strategy and brings together the wider external comms approach across key audiences.
• This includes shaping the external profile of Vertical and its leadership, defining what they should be known for and how it aligns with our wider business strategy.

PR/Media Relations:

• Foster and manage key relationships with media outlets and journalists; orchestrate media coverage and interviews to optimise Vertical’s position and reputation in the market.

Storytelling & Content Creation:

• Own and craft compelling narratives and content to articulate the company's product, and progress including our flight test programme, key milestones and important company changes in collaboration with the wider comms project groups.

Digital Communications:

• Work with our Head of Brand and Marketing to align digital communication channels including social media, content marketing, and online advertising with wider external narrative.

Global Communication:

• Customise communication strategies for different global markets while considering cultural sensitivities and market specifics.

Crisis Management:

• Develop and manage crisis communication approach to safeguard the company’s reputation.

Employer Branding:

• Work with our Head of Brand and Marketing and Head of Talent Acquisition to enhance the company’s image as an employer of choice within the aerospace/aviation industry and UK

Internal Collaboration:

• Collaborate closely with internal teams to ensure aligned and consistent messaging and narrative including the commercial, VLT and the people team.

Performance Metrics:

• Set, monitor, and report on key KPIs to measure the effectiveness of communication campaigns, reach and impact.

Regulatory Communication:

• Ensure all communications comply and are aligned with aviation industry regulations and standards in collaboration with our Head of Public Affairs.

To be successful in this role, you will need the following experience and expertise:

Experience & Qualifications:

• Deep experience in communications, preferably in aerospace, aviation, or technology/transport sectors at a head of or above level, leading the end-to-end external communications strategy.
• Proven experience in variety of industries and companies with ideally a background in journalism/media or strong evidence of copy and content writing skills.
• Media Relations: Proven experience in managing media relationships and securing media coverage in both global brands and in smaller, start-up environments with measurable commercial impact.
• Digital Savvy: Experience in digital communications including social media and content marketing.
• Crisis Management: Experience in crisis communication, especially in a highly regulated environment.
• Global Mindset: Experience in international communications and understanding of different cultures.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and execute innovative communication strategies.
• Storytelling Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft captivating stories.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead through others, collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and lead cross functional project groups when delivering comms strategies.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Education: bachelor's degree in communications, Journalism, or a related field. Master’s degree is preferred.