The Business Development and Communications Team Lead will be responsible for lead strategies across communications, marketing, and partnerships to enhance the reputation, visibility, and growth of the British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ). The role will focus on increasing student enrolment, expanding strategic partnerships, and supporting BAJ's mission to deliver world-class creative education.
Key Responsibilities:
Communications & Marketing Strategy:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive and creative communications and marketing strategy to elevate BAJ’s brand and expand its reach within the jewellery, education, and creative industries.
- Lead creative content creation for digital platforms, including website management, social media, email campaigns, and outreach, ensuring a consistent and engaging brand message, increasing following and reputation.
- Manage media relations, securing strategic press coverage, and building relationships with key media contacts.
- Oversee the production of marketing materials, such as prospectuses, brochures, and promotional videos, to highlight BAJ’s content.
Business Development & Partnerships:
· Identify and cultivate partnerships with industry leaders, businesses, educational institutions, and other strategic stakeholders to support the growth of BAJ’s student body and commercial offerings.
· Monitor business development activities, including lead generation and conversion rates, ensuring targets are met.
- Conduct thorough market research to identify emerging trends, opportunities, and competitive threats within the education industry.
· Establish and lead BAJ’s fundraising and sponsorship strategy, working with corporate partners, grant providers, and philanthropic organisations to secure financial support for BAJ’s scholarships and other ambitions.
- Collaborate on the identification and securing of innovative revenue streams, ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of BAJ’s offerings.
- Develop and maintain relationships with alumni and the wider community, leveraging these connections to support BAJ’s mission and enhance its influence in the sector and beyond.
Student Recruitment & Outreach:
- Develop and execute targeted recruitment strategies in collaboration with the Student Recruitment Manager to increase student enrolment across all programmes, with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and widening participation.
- Explore and drive opportunities for international growth. Leverage and maintain Tier 4 sponsorship to support growth in international markets.
- Oversee the organisation and management of recruitment events such as open days, workshops, and industry showcases to engage prospective students and partners.
- Work closely with the admissions and academic teams to ensure clear and effective communication with prospective and current students.
Brand Development & Reputation Management:
- Protect and enhance BAJ’s brand reputation through proactive communication, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement.
- Ensure that BAJ’s values and commitment to excellence in education are consistently reflected in all communications and external partnerships.
Leadership & Team Management:
- Lead and manage a team of communications and marketing professionals, providing clear direction, development opportunities, and performance management.
- Lead and manage a team of student recruiting professionals, providing clear direction, development opportunities, and performance management.
- Work collaboratively with the senior leadership team to align communications and development efforts with BAJ’s strategic objectives.
Key Relationships:
- Principal and Senior Leadership Team
- Recruitment Team
- Marketing Team
- Academic and Admissions Teams
- Industry Partners, Sponsors, and Alumni
- Media, Press, and External Agencies
Requirements
Required Skills & Experience:
- Proven experience in a senior communications, marketing, or development role, ideally within the education, creative industries, or nonprofit sectors.
- Proven ability to drive measurable growth in enrolment, partnerships, or brand engagement through strategic initiatives.
- Strong understanding of brand strategy, digital marketing, and content creation.
- Experience in partnership development, sponsorship acquisition, and fundraising.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
- Familiarity with the jewellery industry or vocational education would be an advantage but is not essential.
Qualifications:
- Degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.
- Professional qualifications in marketing, communications, or fundraising (e.g., CIM, CIPR, IoF) are desirable.
Key Competencies:
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
- Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and deliver results under tight deadlines.
- Creative mindset with a solutions-oriented approach.
- High attention to detail and quality standards.
