Communications Manager (Conservation Zoos)

The Communications Manager is responsible for shaping and delivering strategic communications that protect and enhance the reputation, profile and public understanding of ZSL’s Zoos.

Acting as a trusted communications adviser to Zoo leadership teams, operational colleagues and subject matter experts, the role provides expert guidance on messaging, audience engagement, reputational risk and communications opportunities. The postholder will ensure that communications activity is planned, coordinated and aligned to organisational priorities, helping colleagues communicate clearly and confidently with external audiences. They will proactively monitor the external landscape to identify emerging reputational risks, contentious issues and opportunities, providing strategic counsel to ensure communications and media plans are developed with appropriate foresight, sensitivity and risk mitigation.

The role leads the development of compelling earned media and storytelling activity for London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo, while also working across owned, shared and partner channels to maximise reach and impact. It translates animal, visitor experience and commercial priorities into clear, audience-focused communications that build support for ZSL’s mission and strengthen the Zoos’ role as trusted, relevant and inspiring visitor attractions and conservation organisation.

This role is based in our Regent's Park office and is expected to be onsite for three to four days per week due to the nature of the role.

Key responsibilities:  

• Act as a trusted communications adviser to Zoo leadership teams, operational colleagues and subject matter experts, providing guidance on messaging, audience impact, media engagement and reputational risk.
• Lead proactive earned media activity for the Zoos, developing compelling stories, press releases, media pitches and features that build profile, understanding and brand support.
• Embed communications planning early in key Zoo projects, campaigns, animal moments, operational changes and public-facing initiatives.
• Identify communications opportunities and risks, advising colleagues on the most appropriate approach, timing, channels and narrative.
• Translate animal care, visitor experience and commercial priorities into clear, engaging and audience-focused communications.

• Experience of developing and delivering communications plans that support organisational priorities, reputation and audience engagement.
• Proven experience of delivering proactive earned media activity, including identifying stories, writing press materials, pitching to journalists and securing quality coverage.
• Confidence in delivering breadth and depth of a full range of content production, from press promotion to developing content, reels and social media content for a range of channels and audiences
• Ability to act as a credible communications adviser, providing clear guidance on messaging, audience impact, reputational risk and channel approach.
• Strong storytelling skills, with the ability to identify compelling narratives from animal, conservation, science, visitor experience and commercial activity.

This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 

ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.