Cluster Communications Manager

We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. For over 90 years we have shaped brighter futures through education, arts, culture, language, and creativity. We work with people in over 150 countries and reach over 700 million people. We connect. We inspire. Role Purpose To support the development and implementation of the communications strategy and plan for the Philippines, with the support of the wider Communications team. The Communications Manager will be responsible for internal and change communications; external communications planning and delivery, including media, PR, events and stakeholder communications within the country. They will work closely with internal and external key stakeholders, execute plans that strengthen and integrate marketing initiatives to continue to engage current audiences, identify and attract new ones and create greater awareness of the British Council. The Communications Manager will work closely with other Communications Managers across Southeast Asia to develop, coordinate and delivery wider communications strategies and plans, ensuring alignment of messaging, integrated campaign execution, and the effective sharing of expertise and best practices across markets. Role Accountabilities Manages the implementation of communications strategies and plans, ensuring alignment with corporate and business communications priorities and delivering effective internal and external communications campaigns, media relations activities, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management for the British Council in the Philippines. Works closely with the Country Director to strengthen the organisation’s profile, coordinate internal and change communications, mitigate communications-related risks, and ensure consistent messaging that supports corporate and business strategies and the British Council brand. Provides expert communications advice to colleagues and business leads, applies analytical approaches to assess current communications effectiveness, identify opportunities for improvement, and deliver initiatives that support country business needs and Southeast Asia priorities. Translates complex information into clear, persuasive communications and builds a strong understanding of the operational context, opportunities, and challenges affecting communications. Builds strong relationships with internal customers, regional communications professionals, agency partners, suppliers, and key stakeholders to support the effective delivery of integrated communications activities. Ensures joined-up delivery of communications projects, consistent application of communications and brand standards, and regular evaluation of project effectiveness to identify continuous improvement opportunities. Delivers high-quality communications plans and solutions using established tools, systems, and processes, while maintaining professional expertise through ongoing development. Oversees reporting on progress, deliverables, risks, and value-for-money considerations, and actively participates in regional communities of practice and professional networks. Plans and prioritises work effectively, coordinates contributions from colleagues across functions, and ensures successful delivery of diverse communications objectives over quarterly and annual planning cycles. Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree equivalent experience is required Requirements Essential * Relevant degree e.g. communications, journalism, marketing, or equivalent level of experience * Demonstrable experience in managing communications within a large and complex organisation or agency * Thorough understanding of the media and communication environment of the Philippines, and the wider ASEAN context * Experience in providing expert advice and guidance on internal and external communications * Experience in managing and mitigating internal and external communications risks and issues * Proven record of editorial experience (i.e. proofreading, translation, knowledge of different content types, etc.) * Creative approach to implementing and evaluating communication activities Desirable * Experience in a global organisation Language Requirements: The British Council systems and global processes operate in English. Written and verbal proficiency in English is required. Important Information * Contract type: Indefinite Contract * Pay band: 6 * Salary: 60,804 * Location: Philippines * Travel: Occasional domestic/ international travel * Proof of Identity requirements & right to work in the country: Applications are also welcomed from candidates currently based in other British Council country offices, provided they already have the legal right to work in the role location and are willing to relocate. Please note that any relocation costs and associated formalities will be the responsibility of the candidate. * Closing Date: Sunday, 1st November at 23:59 UK time, Philippines 7:59 AM on November 2, 2026. British Council supports working in new ways such as hybrid working, subject to full approval by line management and conditional upon our ability to provide the appropriate level of service. This may not be appropriate for all roles but can be explored at interview. A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and we welcome applications from all sections of the community as we believe that a diverse workforce gives added depth to our work. The British Council is a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme helps challenge attitudes, increase understanding of disability and ensure staff are drawn from the widest possible pool of talent and we guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum role requirements. We welcome discussions about specific requirements or adjustments to enable participation and engagement in our work and activities. Safeguarding Statement The British Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults who we work with. We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19, UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989. Appointment to positions where there is direct involvement with vulnerable groups will be dependent on thorough checks being completed in line with legal requirements and with the British Council’s Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children. If you experience any difficulties with submitting your application, please email askhr@britishcouncil.org