Director of Communications Vacancy

The Royal Navy Rugby Union seeks to appoint a new Director of Communications to its Executive Committee.

The Royal Navy Rugby Union (RNRU), as well as being a part of the Royal Navy, is a National Constituent Body (NCB) of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and a registered charity. It is charged with the management, administration, and development of the game of Rugby Union within the RN, in accordance with Service regulations and traditions, as well as in compliance with the requirements of the RFU and the regulatory framework for charities.

Our Vision is: To be fun, relevant, and successful, inspiring players, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators to enjoy rugby at all levels from mess deck to international, wherever the RN goes, reflecting all that is best in the Service.

RNRU Strategy
The strategy of the RNRU is founded in the recognition and identification of our many, and varied, stakeholders including (but not limited to): The Royal Navy; The Charity Commission; Member Clubs; The Rugby Football Union (RFU) and Sponsors. The RNRU’s Executive Committee has been structured to deliver this strategy and to provide a broader effort on behalf of those stakeholders. This involves a shift from a singular focus on representative rugby (while seeking to maintain our hard-earned reputation for success), with greater investment in promoting participation and enjoyment of rugby across the Royal Navy.

RNRU Director of Communications
The Director of Communications has a critical supporting and enabling role in building the RNRU brand and profile as well as managing the publicity for several high-profile events. It is a voluntary role that requires long-term planning in support of the RNRU strategy, as well as detailed execution and delivery on a regular basis.

Role and Responsibilities
A voting member of the RNRU Executive Committee.
Co-ordination and management of RNRU communications strategy: plan; review; delivery; performance.
Management of the RNRU communications protocol which is designed to provide guidance and support the delivery of the RNRU strategy.
Ensuring that all published content adheres to the Royal Navy and RNRU communications protocols.
Link between the RNRU and Royal Navy Sports Board and NavyFit, providing regular scheduled monthly updates and other articles as required.
Provide direction for all internal and external PR activities.
Manage the RNRU website ensuring it is utilised fully and that currency is maintained.
Manage all RNRU social media accounts [1] (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram).
Working closely with other members of the Executive Committee in achieving the goals of the RNRU.
To act as the interface and SME between the RFU and the RNRU on all PR matters.
Co-ordination of media attendance at RNRU home and away fixtures and other events.
Write and/or edit news articles, external publications, match day programmes, and press releases as required.
Budget holder for the Communications Budget.

The Person
Ideally, but not exclusively, a serving member of the RN (including RM) or the RNR/RMR. 
Committed to Navy Rugby, and capable of supporting the RNRU through successful performance of the role of Director of Communications.
Able to work collaboratively with all those involved in Navy Rugby and Navy Sport more broadly.
Willing and able to liaise widely across the Royal Navy, as well as with key media contacts and RNRU stakeholders (in person as well as by other means).
Demonstrate evidence of ability to operate at a strategic level: to formulate strategy, and to co-ordinate delivery and measurement of performance.
Experience in developing and delivering complex communication plans as well as effectively utilising and managing a variety of media channels, including websites and social media is desirable.
For further information contact Ruth Stanbridge, Company Secretary Royal Navy Rugby Union at ruth.stanbridge100@mod.gov.uk or 07766523673.

The Selection Process
Closing date for applications is Friday 07 JUN 2024.
Applications should be made in writing, via email, to The RNRU Company Secretary. Email address to be used is ruth.stanbridge100@mod.gov.uk. Applications should include sufficient detail to explain an individual’s suitability for the role (personal statements and covering letters are encouraged). Written applications will be considered by a panel formed from members of the Executive Committee of the RNRU; candidates may be invited to interview to constitute a second round of the selection process if deemed appropriate by the panel. If required, interviews will be conducted during the week 17 – 21 JUN 2024.