Communications Manager (Air Sector – Transformation & Crisis Communications)

Job Title: Communications Manager (Air Sector – Transformation & Crisis Communications)

Location: Warton, Hybrid – 3 days per week on site

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role.

Salary: £65,498+ dependent on experience

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions, shaping a safer future for all of us. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

What you will be doing:

This role reports to the Senior Communications Manager (Air Communications) and will play a key part in supporting crisis communications planning and response across the Air Sector. You will also work closely with stakeholders across the Air Sector to lead and deliver internal communications for transformation activity.

You will act as a trusted communications partner across transformation programmes, industrial strategy, and security-related activity, while supporting senior leaders and enabling effective, consistent messaging across the business.

Core duties:

• Act as deputy for crisis communications, supporting incident response and resilience planning across the Air Sector
• Lead communications planning and delivery across a portfolio of Air Sector transformation programmes
• Develop and implement integrated communications strategies aligned to business change priorities
• Support internal communications for Industrial Strategy and Security functions, ensuring alignment and clarity of messaging
• Coach and advise leaders and managers to improve communication effectiveness and engagement impact
• Collaborate across Communications, Business Change, Marketing and Creative teams to ensure joined-up messaging and storytelling
• Plan and deliver communications briefings, leadership updates and engagement events aligned to transformation activity
• Assess communications effectiveness using feedback and data, continuously improving approach and delivery
• Provide line management for communications resources aligned to transformation initiatives where required
• Support ad hoc Air Sector communications activity as business priorities evolve

Essential Skills:

• Experience supporting or contributing to crisis or incident communications
• Proven experience delivering internal communications within large, complex organisations
• Experience in communications planning, change and/or transformation environments would be advantageous
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with ability to influence senior leaders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with ability to tailor messages to different audiences
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritise workload and manage multiple programmes simultaneously

The Air Sector Team:

You’ll be part of the Air Sector Communications Team working alongside colleagues with expertise in internal communications, external and media relations, events management and creative production. It’s a fast-moving environment with plenty of variety. This role specifically supports Air Transformation and Enablement, which sits at the heart of the Air sector and is responsible for building the resilience, future capabilities and culture to deliver today and in the future.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people and encourage discussion of reasonable adjustments where needed.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Applicants must meet Baseline Personnel Security Standard, and many roles require higher levels of National Security Vetting, including 5–10 years continuous UK residency depending on the role.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. Lifelong learning, meaningful work, and a supportive culture enable you to grow with confidence. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and supported with rewards that matter most to you.

Closing Date: 11th June 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. If you are interested, please apply as early as possible.

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