Director, External Communications

Company: American Water
Location: Camden
Posted on: May 7, 2022

Job Description:

The scope of this role is broad and encompasses media relations, brand building and management, executive communications, content-led communications, and employer branding. Role develops/leads external communications strategy, planning and execution externally for Homeowner Services Brands. Develops and implements plans to position Brand(s) as an innovative industry leader in the home services space leveraging media relations and other external communication channels. The successful candidate will be a strong written and verbal storyteller; is able to juggle multiple assignments; has strong leadership skills and can effectively operate under tight deadlines.

Key Accountabilities:

• Serve as company spokesperson to the media and provide executive level counsel and support.
• Develops talking points and corresponding media materials, invitations to the media, media pitching and coaches' senior leadership team on how to convey key messages effectively when dealing with the media, community groups or other target audiences.
• Develops effective reactive/crisis communications plans and serves as spokesperson.
• Possess strong understanding of media industry; understand the traditional press, and harness digital communications platforms like social media.
• Develop original content to propel the corporate brand narrative, including, but not limited to press releases, bylines, media pitches, social posts, paid editorial placements, and videos.
• Create and maintain relationships with key business and trade media that can lead to increased visibility for the company, its key initiatives, and campaigns in market.
• Monitors internal/external business developments, as well as identifies connections between business activities and industry trends that may pose a threat or benefit to company's reputation.Education: Bachelor's degree, preferably in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or Journalism, is required. Advanced degree a plus.
  
  Knowledge/Skills : -Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate complex ideas simply and meaningfully to audiences of diverse backgrounds and education levels.
  
  
  • Analytical skills to solve problems and find the best way to convey a message
  • Proven ability to manage and complete complex projects in a timely, cost-effective manner.
  • Excellent interpersonal and organization skills, including the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and coordinate with numerous colleagues.
  • Ability to work as part of a team and act quickly with minimal supervision.
  • Comfortable delivering messages through a variety of platforms.
  • Has a thorough knowledge of strategic communications. Extensive experience in developing, implementing, and measuring all related tactics and activities in support of effective integrated communication strategies.
  • Displays a thorough knowledge and understanding of the media and the ability to assess a reporter's focus. Is highly adept at developing and placing media materials including press releases, letter to the editor and op-eds.
  • Experience using social media to support a company.
  • Excellent and efficient working knowledge of PowerPoint, Word, ExcelExperience:
    
    • Communications professional with a minimum of 10 years relevant experience is required.
    • Experience working directly for or managing public relations, digital, and creative agencies.
    • Media and/or agency experience preferredWork Environment:
      Standard work environment
      
      Travel Requirements:
      Ability to travel (

Keywords: American Water, Camden , Director, External Communications, Executive , Camden, New Jersey