External Communications Manager (Europe)

Partner with Business Unit and Market Leadership to bring key European growth priorities to life through an external narrative that elevates IHG’s position in priority markets across Europe. 

Act as the go-to for external communications in Europe - advising senior leadership (including regional MDs) on external messaging, media strategies, risk and reputation.

Identify and oversee external speaking opportunities for key spokespeople that build awareness of IHG’s initiatives across key media markets and manage senior spokespeople briefings — from the UK & Ireland and Germany to France, Spain and beyond.

Facilitate external comms activity, including media and panel briefs, at leading industry events, and work closely with Hotel Development and Development Communications & Events teams.

Manage external communications plans and materials, including press materials (press releases, Q&A decks, spokesperson briefing notes), and help manage the busy Europe press office.

Manage up to four PR agencies across Europe to ensure best-in-class strategy, delivery, and performance against IHG’s brand and reputation goals.

Develop thought leadership platforms for Europe’s senior leaders through strategic storytelling and LinkedIn programmes

Collaborate with your wider Global Corporate Affairs colleagues to feed into 360 market- and business-wide communications campaigns and initiatives

Play an active role in crisis communications management as part of a trusted regional team, including being part of an Out-of-Hours on call rota. 

Collaborate with EMEAA and Global Corporate Affairs colleagues to deliver aligned and impactful communications that ladder up to our regional strategy.

Significant communications experience, focusing on external disciplines, ideally with agency experience. 

Proven success in a complex, matrixed corporate environment, ideally with B2B or hospitality experience.

Strong media relations and crisis-handling skills.

Exceptional written communication and storytelling ability in English (additional European languages a plus).

Confidence and judgment to advise senior stakeholders and influence at every level.

Experience leading agencies, managing budgets, and running end-to-end external communication campaigns in high-pace environments.

A collaborative mindset — someone who brings people together, aligns messages, and builds engagement through clear, authentic communication.