Dr Joanna Heaton-Marriott

Background and experience

Jo is a strategic leader with 20 years’ experience in external relations within the higher education sector. She has experience of governance at Board level, as both an elected staff representative and as a member of the Executive Team at Teesside University.

Jo is experienced in initiating and embedding new strategies across external relations, securing improvements in media coverage, and overseeing reputation management and crisis communications. She is currently Executive Director of Communications and Development at Teesside University and leads a broad portfolio, including the university’s corporate social responsibility activity. Professional activities outside her career have included being an expert reviewer (public engagement) with the European Research Council, as well as a mentor and coach.

Skills

Jo’s skills include strategic communications, reputation management, public and civic engagement, public affairs and partnership development on a regional, national and international scale.

Personal interests

Jo likes to spend time outdoors, particularly walking in the countryside with her son, partner and dogs. She is an avid reader, sings in a community choir and loves to cook.