External Communications Manager

POSITION SUMMARY The External Communications Manager is responsible for developing and executing strategic external communications that enhance the company's reputation, strengthen stakeholder trust, and support key business priorities. This role leads media relations, manages proactive and reactive messaging, drives issue-based communications planning, and elevates storytelling around strategic initiatives. The position also provides leadership and guidance to two direct reports, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and communications priorities. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Media Relations Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries; manage relationships with local, regional, and national outlets Develop and execute media strategies to proactively position the company and its leadership Prepare executives and subject matter experts for media engagement, including briefings and key messages Monitor media coverage and sentiment; provide insights and recommendations to leadership Manage media distribution platforms and tools, including press release dissemination, media list management, performance reporting, and journalist engagement tracking External Messaging & Statements Draft, review, and approve external statements in response to emerging issues and stakeholder inquiries Develop proactive messaging to support strategic announcements and reputation-building initiatives Ensure message consistency across channels and alignment with corporate positioning and regulatory expectations Partner with Legal, Regulatory, and Operational teams on sensitive or high-risk communications Issues Management & Communications Planning Lead development and execution of communications plans for issues, crises, and high-profile business developments Anticipate reputational risks and develop scenario-based messaging and response strategies Coordinate cross-functional communications to ensure timely and accurate responses Provide counsel to leadership on communications risks, stakeholder impact, and mitigation strategies Measure and report on communications effectiveness using media analytics, sentiment analysis, share of voice, and stakeholder engagement metrics Use AI responsibly as a tool to enhance research, monitoring, drafting and workflow efficiency (and not as a substitute for sound communications judgment, fact-checking, creativity or brand stewardship). Strategic Storytelling Develop compelling narratives that highlight company impact and value across key initiatives Identify opportunities to elevate stories through earned media, digital channels, and executive visibility Translate complex technical and regulatory topics into clear, engaging messaging Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Internal Communications, Government Affairs, Regulatory, Operations, and Brand teams to ensure alignment Support integrated communications campaigns and enterprise-wide initiatives Collaborate with digital and social teams to amplify messaging Work with Digital Advocacy team in monitoring traditional, digital, and social media conversations to identify emerging issues, assess reputational risk, and provide actionable insights to leadership Partner with Internal and Digital Advocacy teams to optimize content for web, social, intranet and multimedia channels to maximize reach and engagement QUALIFICATIONS (Education & Experience) Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or related field required 7-10+ years of experience in corporate communications, public relations, or media relations required Ideal candidate will have 2 years of management experience. Experience working with Cision, PR Newswire, Meltwater or related platform required Ideal candidate will have supervisory experience and experience managing high-profile issues, crisis communications, and executive-level messaging Experience in regulated industries (e.g., energy, utilities, infrastructure) preferred Social media experience is a plus KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a focus on clarity and precision Ability to translate complex information into concise, audience-focused messaging Strategic thinking with strong executive presence Strong judgment and ability to operate effectively in high-pressure environments Effective stakeholder management and ability to influence without authority High attention to detail and message discipline Agility and responsiveness in rapidly evolving situations #J-18808-Ljbffr