Marketing & Communications Lead – Cleantech & Sustainable Materials

A&B Smart Materials is an Oxford University-based materials science venture founded by Oxbridge graduates. We are developing sustainable, biobased, and biodegradable superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) to replace synthetic, petroleum-based SAPs. These "magic-like" polymers - capable of absorbing hundreds of times their weight in water - are used in hygiene products (diapers, menstrual pads, cosmetics) and agriculture.

The SAP market is worth $9B today and projected to reach $17.6B by 2035. With the EU banning synthetic SAPs in soils by 2028, A&B Smart Materials is positioned to lead this transition. We already have traction with industry leaders. Our mission is to disrupt global supply chains with sustainable polymers that deliver both performance and price parity, while cutting plastic waste and emissions.

We are seeking a Marketing & Communications Lead to shape the voice, brand, and visibility of A&B Smart Materials. This role will be responsible for telling our story to clients, investors, and the wider ecosystem - making sure that our cutting-edge technology resonates with the audiences that matter most.

The Marketing & Communications Lead will manage both strategy and execution, ensuring that our external messaging supports commercial goals, investor relations, and recruitment. You will work closely with the CEO, Chief of Staff, and Business Development Manager to align marketing activities with business priorities.

Key responsibilities include

• Brand Development: Build a compelling and consistent brand identity that reflects our mission and differentiates us from competitors.
• Content Creation: Develop engaging materials (presentations, case studies, newsletters, blogs, social media posts) for investors, partners, and potential clients.
• Campaign Management: Plan and execute targeted campaigns to reach hygiene companies, agricultural distributors, and investors.
• Media & PR: Manage relationships with journalists, trade media, and event organisers; draft press releases and secure coverage.
• Digital Presence: Oversee website content, SEO, and social media channels to increase reach and engagement.
• Events & Conferences: Coordinate participation in industry events, preparing materials and ensuring strong brand presence.
• Internal Communications: Support the team with clear messaging, culture-building initiatives, and recruitment materials.
• Analytics & Feedback: Monitor campaign performance, track KPIs, and adapt strategy accordingly.

This is a high-visibility role where creativity meets strategy. You will have the opportunity to build the communications function from the ground up and directly influence how A&B Smart Materials is perceived across industries and markets.

Essential qualifications and skills

• Proven experience in marketing, communications, or branding (startup, cleantech, or B2B preferred).
• Excellent writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to simplify technical topics for non-technical audiences.
• Experience managing social media, websites, and digital campaigns.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Creative mindset with an eye for design and detail.

Desirable

• Knowledge of sustainability, chemicals, or materials sectors.
• Experience with PR, investor relations communications, or thought-leadership campaigns.
• Familiarity with tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, HubSpot, or similar platforms.
• Track record of building a brand or communication strategy in a high-growth environment.

Location: Oxford (Begbroke Science Park). Hybrid/remote flexibility possible.

Start date: ASAP.

Impact: You will create the digital engine that drives the next generation of sustainable polymers, ensuring our lab discoveries reach global markets faster and more efficiently.

Please note that while the EIT budget is currently exhausted, funding is still available under the EIC, ERC, MSCA, and RI pathways.