Director of Communications and Public Affairs

Overview

The Director of Communications and Public Affairs reports directly to the Vice President of Human Resources and Administration. The selected candidate will lead the team who direct internal and external communications, government relations, media relations, community relations and philanthropy, crisis response and event management for one of the nation’s leading defense contractors.  Close advisor to senior management team. 

Key areas of responsibility include, but are not limited to:

• Direct internal communications programming including executive communications, internal website, podcasts, employee bulletins, digital signage and employee-focused mobile app.
• Partner with Human Resources organization to highlight ongoing recruiting efforts through strategic marketing and advertising campaigns.
• Manage all company social media channels and external website.
• Collaborate with senior management to respond to and cultivate relationships with key media outlets. Provide public relations and public affairs guidance to senior leadership.
• Manage state and local government relations efforts and advocate for legislation that support’s the company’s growth strategies.
• Oversee production of all trade advertising and execution of key trade shows.
• Manage visits of high-level stakeholders (including Cabinet members, Navy leadership, elected officials) which highlight company’s contributions to the nation’s defense and economy. 
• Organize, plan and execute major events, including US Navy milestones (submarine keel layings and christenings) and employee recognition events (service award celebrations.)
• Advise company leadership on allocation of philanthropic budget.
• Represent company at local and regional events (Chambers of Commerce, regional economic advisory councils, etc.)
• Lead Public Affairs branch of company’s Rapid Emergency Response team, overseen and audited by Naval Reactors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or a related discipline.
• 15 or more years experience in journalism, communications, marketing, public relations or related experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge and proficiency with communications technologies.
• Respond to crisis or challenging situations quickly and professionally.
• Advanced copy-writing and copy editing abilities.
• Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality.
• Strong reputational management skills.
• Knowledge of Department of Defense Government Contracting a plus.