Strategic Marketing and Communications

The University of Edinburgh’s Accommodation, Catering & Events (ACE) department is seeking to establish a contract for its commercial marketing and communications services. This initiative originally aimed to appoint external agencies across three key lots: Paid Advertising and Digital Strategy, Public Relations and Branding & Design, however the former was cancelled during the tender process.

By securing expert partners, ACE will enhance brand visibility, streamline communications, and drive commercial success across its portfolio, including The University’s year-round hotels, summer accommodation, highland lodges, event services, catering outlets and hospitality services. This lot encompasses the development and execution of public relations strategies tailored to the tourism and hospitality sector, with a focus on media outreach, brand partnerships, community engagement, and creating strong relationships with local, national, and international media.

The goal is to raise the University’s profile within the commercial hospitality space, boost its reputation, and drive engagement from key audiences, including potential guests and industry stakeholders. This lot will focus on the creation, development, and execution of the University’s commercial branding and design materials to ensure a consistent and impactful visual identity across all commercial initiatives.

The appointed supplier will be responsible for planning, buying, and optimising paid social media/Google campaigns across relevant platforms to drive engagement, brand awareness, and conversions for Accommodation, Catering and Events. Additional information: This lot was cancelled during the tender process and no award was made.