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How to Hire a Communications Manager in the UK (2026)

Owning PR, internal comms and reputation. Hiring a Communications Manager.
By Mark Wilkinson, Managing Director of Coburg Banks
Mark has over 30 years in recruitment, placing marketing professionals from executive to Marketing Director across the UK.
Mark's Linkedin Profile

A Communications Manager shapes how the business is heard - PR, media, internal comms and reputation. Strong writing and calm judgement matter most, especially when the story isn't the one you'd choose.

⚡ In short

A UK Communications Manager typically earns £45k-£65k plus benefits. Expect a placement in 5-9 weeks. Coburg Banks recruits them with no fee until your hire starts.

£45k-£65k

Typical base salary

5-9 weeks

Time to hire

48 hrs

To first shortlist

12 wks

Replacement guarantee

What to look for in a Communications Manager

1

Writing and storytelling

Ask to see coverage or comms they shaped and the impact.

2

Media and stakeholder skill

Probe their relationships and how they've handled a difficult story.

3

Judgement under pressure

Comms is tested in a crisis. Look for someone measured and clear.

How to run the hire

1. Define the remit
Be clear on PR, internal comms, reputation or all three.

2. Score for writing and judgement
Weight strong writing and calm handling of difficult stories.

3. Source and screen
Approach candidates with relevant sector and media experience.

4. Test with a scenario
Use a tricky story or announcement to hear their approach.

5. Reference the results
Confirm they built profile and handled pressure well.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to hire a Communications Manager?

Fees typically run 15-20% of first-year salary, capped and agreed upfront.

Nothing is due until your hire starts.

How long does it take to hire a Communications Manager?

Usually 5-9 weeks.

Sector and whether you need PR, internal comms or both are the main variables.

What does a Communications Manager do?

A Communications Manager manages how the business communicates - PR and media, internal communications, messaging and reputation.

They shape the story, handle the press, and keep communication clear and consistent, especially in a crisis.

Is a Communications Manager the same as a PR Manager?

PR is one part of comms. A Communications Manager often covers PR plus internal comms and wider reputation.

We scope the exact remit so the shortlist fits.

What should I ask a Communications Manager at interview?

Try: Tell me about coverage or a campaign you're proud of.
How would you handle a negative story about us?
How do you approach internal comms? and How do you measure success?

Do you recruit Communications and PR Managers?

Yes, across corporate, consumer and B2B communications.

We match the remit and sector to your needs.

External citations

Ready to hire your next Communications Manager?

Tell us about your role and a specialist marketing recruiter will call you. No fee until your hire starts.