Director of External Communications

Plan International

Director of External Communications leading global strategic communications for Plan International, enhancing visibility and reputation while promoting girls' rights and advocacy.

Posted 6/28/2026full-timeRemote • 🇬🇧 United KingdomLeadWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates extensive experience in leading communications teams within complex international environments, with a strong focus on brand management, strategic communications, and media relations. Possesses exceptional leadership skills to inspire diverse teams while driving innovative digital and social media campaigns.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Strategic Communications LeadershipBrand ManagementMedia RelationsCrisis CommunicationsDigital Communications

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Digital Media CampaignsPublic Relations StrategiesReputational Risk ManagementStorytellingReport Creation

Soft Skills

LeadershipTeam DevelopmentCommunication SkillsRelationship BuildingCommitment to Diversity

Industry Keywords

International AffairsChildren and Youth IssuesEthical StorytellingGlobal Events CommunicationEmerging Communication Technologies

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide global strategic leadership for the organisation’s external communications
Lead and develop two direct reports and their teams (totaling around 12 members)
Build and maintain strong relationships with communications colleagues across Plan International’s entities
Drive ethical and powerful storytelling that reflects Plan International’s core values
Oversee the creation and implementation of digital and social media campaigns
Champion the organisation's brand strategy
Lead timely and effective communications responses to global events and emergencies
Provide expert guidance on reputational risk management
Drive innovation by integrating emerging communication technologies
Ensure ongoing publication of high-quality reports and reviews

Requirements

What you’ll need

Extensive experience leading communications teams within complex international environments with a proven track record of success in brand management and strategic communications
Deep knowledge of international affairs, particularly issues affecting children and youth
Exceptional leadership and management skills, with demonstrated ability to inspire and develop diverse teams
Strong expertise in media relations, digital communications, and public relations strategies
Proven ability to lead and manage reputation and crisis communications
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Commitment to Plan International’s mission and values, with a personal dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and safeguarding principles
Language skills: English is essential; proficiency in French or Spanish is highly desirable

Benefits

Comp & perks

Unique opportunity to lead communications for a globally recognised and respected organisation
Working alongside passionate, skilled professionals
Environment that values innovation, integrity, collaboration, and impact