About the opportunity
The University of Helsinki is seeking a Director of Communications and Community Relations to lead and develop the University’s Communications and Community Relations sector and serve as a strategic partner to the University’s senior leadership. The director serves as a strategic partner to the rector, vice-rectors, and other members of the University leadership in matters relating to communications, advocacy, and community relations. You will oversee a sector of more than 100 specialists responsible for strategic project communications, brand management, media relations, marketing, public engagement, alumni activities, fundraising, Think Corner operations, and major university events. This is a permanent position starting on 1 January 2027 or as agreed.
Salary and benefits
- Permanent leadership position at a leading international research university
- Opportunity to work with a highly skilled and motivated community of over 100 specialists
- Chance to shape the university's public profile, societal impact, and strategic communications
Who can apply?
- Strong experience in leading and strategically developing communications, community relations, and advocacy work
- Ability to set a clear long-term course of action and implement it with a goal-oriented and enhancement-led approach
- Excellent understanding of society, decision-making, and the media environment
- Master’s or equivalent degree from a relevant field
- Excellent command of Finnish, as well as fluent English and Swedish
Required documents
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Salary expectation
When to apply
- Application deadline: 19 October 2026 at 23:59 Europe/Helsinki time
How to apply
- Prepare your motivation letter, CV, and salary expectation.
- Submit your application through the University of Helsinki recruitment system by the deadline.
Additional information
- The recruitment process is carried out in cooperation with JFP Executive Search Oy.
- The appointee will report to the director of administration and be a member of the University Services management group.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Experienced communication and advocacy leaders looking for a high-impact institutional role in higher education
- Professionals with deep familiarity with Nordic academic environments and multilingual stakeholder management
- Leaders who excel at managing large teams of specialists and aligning communications with broader organizational strategies
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires professional fluency in multiple languages, specifically Finnish, English, and Swedish
- Demands significant leadership responsibility overseeing a large sector with diverse operational remits
- Relocation to Helsinki, Finland, is necessary as this is an on-site university leadership position
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This permanent role suits senior communications professionals aiming to anchor their career in world-class academic leadership, shaping global visibility and societal engagement for a major research institution.
Our take
Senior communication executives with strong multilingual skills and experience in academic or public sector advocacy should strongly consider applying.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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