Director of Communications & Public Affairs

Scope of Position

The Director, Communications & Public Affairs will be a key member of the senior management team, reporting directly to the two Business Unit Presidents. The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker, a dynamic communicator, and a visionary leader who can shape and execute the company's communication and public affairs strategies to enhance brand presence, reputation, and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive public affairs strategies that align with the organizations goals and objectives.
• Oversee the organizations external communications, including media relations, press releases, and crisis communication strategies.
• Ensure internal communication plans are consolidated, cohesive and executed in alignment with the corporate narrative. This includes messaging platforms, press releases, social media channels, blogs, Q&As, speeches, editorials, and infographics.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with industry media outlets, journalists, and key influencers to ensure accurate representation of the organization in the media.
• Help ensure a joined up Public Affairs approach / industry voice, working closely with the Group Communications Function and existing regional teams.
• Create and execute effective public relations campaigns to promote key initiatives, events, and achievements.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the organization, providing clear and compelling messages to the media, public, and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent messaging and alignment of communications across various channels.
• Partner with Talent Acquisition to strengthen employer branding strategies and ensure alignment with Employee Value Proposition
• Monitor public opinion, industry trends, and competitive landscape to identify opportunities and risks, and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Manage the organizations social media presence, ensuring a consistent brand voice and engaging content.
• Oversee the creation of marketing materials, including brochures, presentations, and digital content, to support brand positioning and awareness.
• Develop and maintain crisis communication plans to effectively manage and mitigate potential reputational risks.
• Lead internal communication efforts to ensure alignment, engagement, and understanding of organizational goals and initiatives among employees.
• Establish and maintain communication channels that facilitate transparent and timely information flow across the organization.
• Collaborate with HR and senior leadership to develop and execute internal campaigns, programs, and events that foster a positive and informed company culture.
• Supervise PR firms, outside vendors, contractors as applicable, nurturing these relationships and managing related costs.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of public affairs initiatives, using data-driven insights to refine strategies.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to provide strategic counsel on public affairs matters and their impact on the organizations goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field; Masters degree preferred.
• Proven track record of at least 5 years of experience in public affairs, public relations, or related roles.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and guide a diverse team.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing strategic communication plans that enhance brand reputation and visibility.
• Extensive experience working with media outlets and building relationships with journalists and influencers.
• Deep understanding of digital media, social media platforms, and content strategy.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and senior leadership to achieve organizational goals.
• Strong crisis management and issues resolution skills.
• Proven ability to analyze data, generate insights, and make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of creativity and innovation in approaching communication challenges.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools for communication, content creation, and analytics.