As a communication leader you will act as an experienced Business Partner. You have a deep understanding of how strategic and tactical communication contributes to business development as well as people engagement, better results and a solid track record working with digital communication channels. You secure a transparent and sustainable information/communication flow throughout different leadership areas, IKEA Core Business Franchise and to stakeholders across the IKEA network.

In this exciting communication role you’ll drive, lead and plan the communication agenda. Business priorities are: identify key messages, develop communication plans to meet short- and long-term needs, and help to develop communication deliverables to make the plans reality.

You’re a skilled interpersonal communicator who knows what questions to ask to understand others, and also to make your ideas understood. A Communication Leader at IKEA loves translating complicated topics into clear messages, and then into strong briefs. You are a superstar when it comes to communication production processes, and able to lead others (internally, or external suppliers) in making great work. You enjoy sharing your knowledge and feel confident supporting colleagues across our organisation in developing their communication competence.

Our new communication leader will work in the following area:

IKEA Expansion:

Lead one way of expanding to capture the potential in all existing and new IKEA markets in the world; provide a menu of digital and physical IKEA Customer Meeting Points and secure strong and mutually respected franchisee relations.

We offer a unique opportunity to develop a holistic view of the IKEA business. We also offer an open working environment where everyone feels comfortable to experiment, try new ways and dare to ask: “What if…?” And we offer possibilities for you to develop yourself and your career globally. Read more about us at https://about.ikea.com/en/about-us.

About you

• Ability to lead in an inspiring, engaging way by co-creating with others and enabling forward-looking, continuous development is your natural approach.
• Vast experience working in and leading complex business and communication processes and a recognised ability to communicate complex issues in a clear and engaging way with a down-to-earth, simple tone of voice.
• Strong in building trusting relationships, networks, and long-term partnerships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Extensive experience leading business and people in a complex and a fast-changing environment. You also have a strong understanding of how communication enables change.
• Solid knowledge and understanding of B2B communication, communication channel landscape (especially digital channels and online events), visual guidelines, and tone of voice.
• Lead business, crisis, change or internal communication in an international environment.
• Know how on developing an internal channel landscape, and work with it actively (strong digital focus is a plus).
• English (written and spoken) is excellent.

The Communication Leader will report to IKEA Expansion Manager and IKEA Retail Experience Manager for Core Business Franchise (CBF) and sit in two management team. This position is a full-time (40 hours per week)  locating in Delft, Netherlands, though some travel may be required.

Please send your application – CV and motivation – in English. To get to know you a bit better, we would like you to answer these two questions:

• What are the most essential communication skills for leaders to be successful?
• What is your favourite communication approach, and why?

Company Description

Our vision, to create a better everyday life for the many people, influences everything we do. It’s a vision that lives in the everyday efforts of all co-workers, all over the world. 

Fulfilling the IKEA vision requires a strong, efficient and sustainable business setup. That's why the IKEA Business is built on a franchise system. The IKEA Franchisor, Inter IKEA Systems B.V.,  is the worldwide owner of the IKEA Concept, and has the responsibility to ensure that the IKEA Concept stays attractive and competitive while enabling growth and a profitable business for IKEA franchisees.

We offer a friendly and inspiring working environment, challenging yet rewarding work with opportunities to grow, learn and develop.