Head of Communications, EMEA

SailGP; Greater London; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A global racing championship is seeking a Head of Communication (EMEA) based in London. This role will oversee communications strategies and enhance brand visibility in the region. The ideal candidate should have over 8 years of experience in communications within sports or events. Strong media relations and strategic thinking skills are essential. This position requires collaboration across teams and the ability to manage crises effectively. Employees are expected to work from the London office primarily.

Qualifications

• 8+ years relevant experience in communications.
• Proven experience within sport or live events.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop integrated communications strategies for EMEA.
• Lead proactive media relations for the league.
• Manage all EMEA event campaigns and budgets.

Skills

Media relations

Strategic communications

Project management

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Job description

NOTE - Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with a view to conducting initial screenings before the new year.

About SailGP:

The Rolex SailGP Championship is the most exciting racing on water, where anything can happen in short, adrenaline‑fueled battles between national teams at iconic stadium destinations worldwide. Top athletes fly in identical high‑tech F50 catamarans faster than the wind, at speeds approaching 60 mph. Founded in 2018, SailGP is one of the world’s fastest‑growing sports and entertainment properties, now heading into its sixth season.

Background:

SailGP is seeking a full‑time Head of Communication (EMEA) to join its growing team! Overseeing the league’s communications strategy and media profile across Europe and the Middle East, this role will be responsible for driving year‑round visibility, brand reputation and commercial value for the global racing championship in one of its most dynamic growth markets.

You’ll have the chance to lead high‑impact media strategies that shape how the league is seen, covered and experienced. The successful candidate will a trusted advisor, a strong operator and a creative storyteller capable of delivering standout results.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver integrated communications strategies to grow SailGP’s profile and meet league business objectives in key EMEA markets.
• Lead proactive media relations across consumer, trade and broadcast outlets, securing consistent Tier 1 coverage and driving year‑round storytelling for the league and its athletes in EMEA markets.
• Oversee strategic media planning and on‑site communications delivery for all EMEA events, including the management of all EMEA event campaigns, agencies and budgets.
• Lead in the delivery of communications programmes for EMEA events, including media programming, servicing and the delivery of key media touchpoints on‑site.
• Manage league announcements, press opportunities and narrative development as it relates to the EMEA region; write and edit press materials, messaging and executive briefings.
• Working closely with EMEA broadcasters and teams to drive cohesive communications strategies and growth plans within priority markets.
• Collaborate with commercial and partnerships teams to amplify SailGP’s global and regional partners through creative PR activations that drive visibility and value.
• Work alongside marketing, content, digital and social teams to ensure aligned narrative development and cohesive execution across markets.
• Support global issues and crisis management, developing and executing regional response plans while advising on reputational considerations.

What we’re looking for:

• 8+ years relevant experience preferred
• Proven experience and success in communications within sport and / or live events
• Successfully implemented global communications strategies and campaigns
• Exceptional media relations skills, with expert knowledge of global media landscape
• Excellent verbal, written, analytical and organisational communication skills
• Strong strategic thinking capabilities, creative, with demonstrated problem‑solving skills
• Entrepreneurial and passionate with a desire to exceed expectations
• Superior organisation, prioritisation and project and budget management skills
• Strong attention to detail – can multi‑task and meet deadlines with limited supervision
• Works effectively in a small team, deliver results and thrive in a fast‑paced environment
• Self‑starter, action‑oriented – can take a project or programme from start to completion
• Culturally sensitive and able to work effectively globally
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally, including to most or all SailGP events in the EMEA region

Location:

This role will be based out of SailGP’s new London‑based offices in Chelsea; however, standout candidates from other markets will be considered by exception. We value an engaged workforce, powered by in‑office collaboration – as such, employees are expected to work primarily from this space plus other SailGP locations, where required. This includes select SailGP events as well as our London‑based remote broadcast studio in Ealing.

SailGP is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace committed to building a team culture that celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion.