Head of Public Affairs and Communications

The Role

The Head of Public Affairs and Communications is responsible for developing and delivering an integrated external affairs strategy that elevates the London Marathon Foundation’s profile, strengthens relationships, and drives support for its mission to inspire activity in underserved communities. The role shapes how the Foundation communicates its story and engages key stakeholders, while also leading hands‑on delivery across public affairs and communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of a communications and advocacy plan aligned with the Foundation’s mission, grant‑making priorities and funding for direct delivery.
• Help to position the Foundation as a trusted voice on the importance of physical activity, reducing inequalities and creating healthier, more connected communities.
• Deliver a public affairs programme, including monitoring and reporting on relevant policy, research and sector developments.
• Develop an advocacy agenda to strengthen the Foundation’s influence on issues including school sport, physical activity inequality and community infrastructure.
• Develop and manage relationships with partners, sector bodies and government stakeholders, advisers and officials.
• Work with London Marathon Events to identify opportunities for collaboration and integration of messaging on joint objectives, such as our work with children and young people.
• Oversee external communications across media, digital channels, publications and events.
• Support internal communications and equip staff and trustees with messaging and briefing materials.
• Manage the Communications & Engagement Manager and oversee budgets, planning cycles and performance measurement.

Success Measures

• Increased visibility and profile of the Foundation across media, policy and sector audiences.
• Stronger stakeholder relationships and engagement with priority external audiences.
• Delivery of effective advocacy and communications activity aligned to organisational priorities.
• Consistent, high-quality messaging across external and internal communications channels.

Skills and Experience

Required skills

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong political and stakeholder awareness and relationships.
• Ability to translate complex issues into compelling narratives.
• Excellent relationship‑building skills.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to deliver at pace.
• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Required Experience

• Senior‑level experience in external affairs, communications, public affairs or advocacy.
• Proven track record of shaping and delivering communications that drive influence and visibility.
• Experience managing media relations, corporate communications and reputation issues.
• Strong understanding of UK policy landscapes, particularly relating to health, physical activity, communities or inequality.
• Senior‑level communications, public affairs or advocacy experience.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• Ability to lead integrated communications and advocacy activity.Excellent writing, messaging and briefing skills.
• Experience in the charity, foundation, sport, health or community sectors.
• Experience of working on issues related to physical activity, inequality or community development.
• Experience of managing people and overseeing budgets.

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