Head of Communications, PR, and Thought Leadership

We are seeking an experienced, strategic, and dynamic Head of Communications, PR, and Thought Leadership to elevate Vitesse's brand authority and influence across the insurance industry. This role will drive the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy, spanning media relations, executive visibility, thought leadership, and analyst engagement. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in B2B tech communications, strong leadership skills, and the ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate globally.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Strategic Communications Leadership: 

• Develop and implement a global communications strategy that aligns with Vitesse’s business goals and growth objectives. 

• Build and maintain a cohesive messaging framework to ensure brand consistency across all channels. 

• Design regional communication strategies tailored to diverse audiences in the U.S., UK, and EU, addressing specific sub-verticals within the insurance industry. 

Public Relations & Media Engagement: 

• Secure high-impact media coverage in insurance trade outlets. 

• Cultivate relationships with key journalists, editors, and media influencers to strengthen Vitesse's media presence. 

• Manage PR agencies to optimize performance and results. 

• Lead proactive media outreach, including press release development, news hijacking, and strategic pitching to secure timely and relevant media coverage. 

Executive Visibility & Thought Leadership: 

• Develop and execute an executive thought leadership program for Vitesse’s C-suite, positioning them as industry experts. 

• Manage speaking opportunities at major industry events including panels, keynotes and roundtables. 

• Create thought-provoking content, including opinion pieces, white papers, and bylined articles. 

• Analyst & Industry Influencer Relations: 

• Build relationships with leading industry analysts and leverage insights for strategic advantage. 

• Drive analyst briefings, reports, and evaluations to enhance Vitesse's industry positioning. 

Crisis & Issues Management: 

• Develop crisis communication protocols and manage sensitive issues with transparency and strategic messaging. 

• Act as a trusted advisor to leadership during high-stakes situations. 

Content Strategy & Development: 

• Lead the creation of strategic content that amplifies Vitesse’s expertise in insurance treasury, payments, and compliance. 

• Oversee content development for blogs, newsletters, social media, and internal communications. 

• Ensure content strategies are adapted to regional market dynamics and regulatory environments. 

• Media Training & Public Speaking Development: 

• Design and deliver comprehensive media training programs for Vitesse executives and key spokespeople. 

• Provide public speaking coaching to enhance presentation skills, message delivery, and executive presence. 

• Conduct mock interviews and speaking simulations to prepare leaders for media interactions and industry events.  

Cross-Functional Collaboration: 

• Work closely with executives, Product Marketing, and Commercial teams to ensure alignment on messaging and campaigns. 

• Integrate PR efforts with demand generation and brand initiatives to maximize impact. 

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in communications, PR, and thought leadership roles, preferably in B2B tech or insurtech. 

• Proven success in developing and executing global communications strategies with regional nuances. 

• Strong media relations network and experience securing top-tier media coverage. 

• Expertise in executive communications, thought leadership, and analyst relations. 

• Experience with press release writing, media pitching, and news hijacking for proactive PR. 

• Exceptional writing, storytelling, and content development skills. 

• Crisis communication and reputation management experience. 

• Strong leadership, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills. 

Preferred Experience: 

• Background in insurtech, fintech, or related industries. 

• Experience working with global teams and managing external agencies. 

Benefits

• 25 days Holiday per year (increasing by 1 day per years' service, up to 30 days) + Bank Holidays  
• Hybrid working arrangements – minimum 2 days in the office,