Specialist, Communications and Public Relations

ABOUT JENNER & BLOCK

Jenner & Block LLP is a law firm with global reach, with offices in Century City, Chicago, London, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Washington, DC. The firm is known for its prominent and successful litigation practice, global investigations practice, regulatory and government controversies work, and experience handling sophisticated and high-profile corporate transactions. Its clients include Fortune 100 companies, technology companies, large privately held corporations, emerging companies, Native American tribes, and venture capital and private equity investors. The American Lawyer has recognized Jenner & Block as the No. 1 pro bono firm in the United States 10 times

Summary

Jenner & Block, a leading law firm with international reach, seeks a seasoned Communications

Specialist to join its Communication Department based in Chicago, New York, or Washington, DC. This role serves as a key, day-to-day communications and public relations support, collaborating with the Communications Managers and broader team to execute internal and external initiatives, take ownership of complex content development and media relations needs, and help up-level communication projects across the firm. The Communications Specialist supports senior leadership in maintaining relationships with partners, professional staff, and media contacts, playing a crucial role in bridging strategic planning and tactical implementation while serving as a mentor to junior team members.

This role works under the Communications and PR Manager and offers significant opportunity to take on increasing responsibility for strategic planning and project ownership. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, showing strong judgment in managing complex issues, developing stakeholder relationships, and progressing communications initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities

• Execute communications activities including media opportunities, thought leadership pieces, and speaking engagements, working closely with lawyers and the Communications Manager to support the firm's mission, values, and priorities.
• Serve as a key point of contact for practice groups and partners on communications needs, helping to manage relationships and providing strategic counsel on media opportunities and content development.
• Take ownership of complex writing projects, including press releases, thought leadership pieces, website copy, and internal communications. Review and provide strategic feedback on work produced by junior team members.
• Support media relations efforts by maintaining press lists, drafting pitch materials, and assisting in interview preparation for lawyers. Help coordinate journalist outreach and relationship building.
• Manage the firm's digital presence with minimal supervision, developing sophisticated content strategies across platforms and analyzing performance metrics to drive continuous improvement.
• Support the development and implementation of integrated PR campaigns, including timeline creation, stakeholder management, and measurement frameworks.
• Edit and proofread communications materials across various channels, ensuring brand and editorial consistency.
• Oversee and enhance the firm's media monitoring program, including tracking communications activities across the firm and providing actionable insights on industry developments and competitor activities.
• Manage the coordination of the awards and rankings process for designated practice areas, providing strategic guidance on submission approaches and coordinating with senior partners to develop compelling narratives.
• Mentor and guide junior team members on communications and public relations best practices, writing techniques, and project management skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field
• 5-7 years of communications experience, with law firm or professional services experience strongly preferred
• Demonstrated experience managing complex communications projects independently
• Advanced writing and editing skills, with the ability to adapt tone and style for various audiences and purposes
• Strategic thinking abilities with proven experience translating communications strategies into actionable plans
• Strong media relations skills and understanding of current communications landscape, including experience building and maintaining journalist relationships
• Advanced knowledge of social media strategy and content development
• Proven ability to maintain attention to detail while working collaboratively in a fast-paced environment managing multiple priorities
• Excellent project management and organizational skills
• Experience mentoring junior team members and providing constructive feedback

Jenner & Block LLP is an equal opportunity employer. Recruitment and employment decisions are not made on the basis of an individual’s race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability or medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity and/or expression, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions, arrest record, matriculation, personal appearance, political affiliation, marital, parental, veteran, military, or order of protection status, or any other protected status or that of their relatives, friends, or associates.

Jenner & Block is proud to offer a competitive total rewards package, including comprehensive health & well-being benefits and 401k profit sharing. The anticipated pay range for this role is $65,000-$90,000. The actual offered rate for this position will be determined based on several factors, including qualifications and experience, geographic location, education, external market data, and consideration of internal equity.