Communications Manager, North America

ABOUT VEJA

Since 2005, VEJA has been creating sneakers in a different way, mixing social projects, economic justice, and ecological materials. VEJA uses Brazilian and Peruvian organic cotton for the canvas and laces, Amazonian rubber for the soles, and various innovative materials from recycled plastic bottles or recycled polyester. VEJA sneakers are produced in high-standard factories in Brazil.

Job Description

We are currently looking for a Communications Manager to join our growing team in North America. In this role you will lead the communications initiatives in North America in conjunction with VEJA headquarters, based in Paris. This role duly reports to the COO of VEJA North America and Global Head of Communications and directly manages the locally based Communications Associate.

Our North America office is based in New York City and offers a hybrid work environment.

Main Responsibilities

Internal Communications

• Develop and manage internal communication strategies that ensure the North America team stays informed and aligned with global messaging and objectives.
• Oversee the onboarding process for new team members, providing them with comprehensive training on the VEJA Project and product knowledge.
• Facilitate regular communication channels to create internal engagement such as newsletters and meetings to consistently share key company updates, product launches, and team achievements.
• Strengthen communication links between the North America / Brazil / Paris teams.

Events

• Partner with the Global Events Manager to create and manage events that benefit VEJA, targeting both wholesale commercial partners and direct customers to enhance brand engagement, image and notoriety.
• Create a calendar for retail activations in NYC and Los Angeles, creating experiences that engage and enrich local communities and boost sales potential.

Public Relations & Networking

• Partner with the Global PR Manager on VEJA's PR strategy in North America, ensuring cohesive messaging across all platforms. Roadmap future PR strategies in emerging markets such as Mexico and Canada.
• Actively propose and seek out brand collaborations and partnership opportunities that align with VEJA’s values and mission.
• Establish connections with local influencers and industry professionals to promote the VEJA brand.

Wholesale Communications

• Collaborate closely with wholesale commercial team to develop targeted communication strategies for our partners, enhancing brand visibility and engagement.
• Identify and propose activation opportunities within retail partners, including pop-up events, shop-in-shop concepts, window displays, and collaborative events, to drive brand awareness and sales.
• Conduct "deep dive" program with wholesale partners.
• Develop communication tools for wholesale partners, including the VEJA newsletter, look book imagery, and press updates to maintain strong relationships and keep partners informed.
• Support the wholesale team by providing Project and brand training for key retail partners, to further educate customers on the VEJA project and brand

Role Requirements

• Commitment to the VEJA Project and vision; passionate about fair-trade brands with the ability to speak confidently about the VEJA Project, both internally and externally.
• 6 years of experience in a communications role, preferably with a like-minded fashion brand, sustainable brand experience a plus.
• Must have experience managing a minimum of 1-2 team members with the ability to grow, develop and mentor.
• Extensive knowledge of the contemporary and streetwear fashion market, including brands, press, VIPs, influencers. A strong plus to have experience within the sustainability industry.
• Proven track record in managing and expanding relationships with key press, influencers, and industry leaders. Strong understanding of the evolving PR landscape across print, digital, and media.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with a proven ability to lead local PR initiatives, including store openings, wholesale events, and collaborations.
• Clear and concise communication and presentation skills. Must be able to work collaboratively with the North America team and HQ, as well as various external partners.
• Highly organized and detail oriented, ability to pivot priorities and adapt to a fast-growing organization.
• Responsible for managing the North America communications department budget.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time, both domestically and internationally.
• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications or similar field. Foreign language skills are a plus (French, Spanish or Portuguese).
• Estimated annual compensation is $110,000-$130,000 to align with experience plus a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, 401K and more!