Associate Director of External Communications (Business)
$200,000–$240,000 year
On-siteChicago, Illinois, United States or San Francisco, California, United States
Job Summary
Lead and manage a team of in-house and agency communications professionals to build relationships with influential media and execute strategic external communications programs. Develop communications strategies with business practice leadership to strengthen the firm's position in key markets, while overseeing the awards and recognitions program. Write and edit press releases, media pitches, and talking points; identify compelling stories across the innovation economy industries. Serve as a spokesperson for media inquiries and provide crisis communications counsel, media training, and interview preparation to firm leaders. Mentor direct reports, ensure compliance with policies, and participate in hiring and performance appraisals. Requires 8+ years of direct experience with 4+ years in management, proficiency in Microsoft Office and iManage, and ability to work extended hours and travel. Annual salary range is $200,000 - $240,000.
Required Qualifications
- After orientation at Cooley LLP, exhibit proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, iManage and other firm applications
- Ability to work extended and/or weekend hours, as required
- Ability to travel, as required
- Minimum 8 years' direct experience (e.g., communications, public relations experience with B2B clients and at a management level) with 4+ years' management experience (some at the senior level preferred)
- Bachelor's degree preferably in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Business or related field
- Experience operating at a level beyond current role expectations, providing strategic leadership, influencing key decisions, and guiding team direction
- Experience leading people and teams, including hiring, employee development, work assignment, performance management, coaching and corrective counseling
- Strong working knowledge of and contacts within National print, broadcast and online media
- Strong handle on financial markets and business concepts and related subject matter
- Experience with crisis and issues management communications
- Understanding of digital marketing, social media strategies, and content creation best practices
Desired Qualifications
- Experience working in a law firm, professional services, and/or PR agency environment
- 10+ years applicable experience strongly preferred
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