Head of Communications

Role Overview Each one of our timepieces is a perfect combination of exclusive design, innovative technology and precision. All of these values have played their part in making IWC Schaffhausen a dynamic and quickly growing international brand which has established itself in the upper echelons of the luxury watch segment: the perfect environment for those embarking on careers in the luxury goods industry as well as highly qualified, ambitious specialists and management figures who are attracted by the flair of the international luxury goods sector. As Head of Communication for North America, you will shape how our Maison connects with press, clients and partners at every touchpoint, orchestrating the activities around brand image and brand awareness while respecting the Maison identity and vision, and creating the best conditions to support business within the Market. Your mission is to strengthen brand equity, deepen engagement, and fuel business growth through seamless, personalized campaigns and activations. Responsibilities Strategy & Planning Lead and develop the annual comprehensive Communications strategy with the MarCom VP, aligning with the long-term business objectives of the market. Support the Marketing & Communications VP in the definition of the brand vision for the region and support on the annual Strategic Plan preparation. Create local Communications/Campaigns calendar in partnership with HQ and Communications team. Provide strategic input to HQ for the development of locally impactful communications concepts, assets and partnerships. Support HQ‑lead activation located in North America. Media / Content Manage the Media team in developing and executing the regional media plan (USA & Canada) to enhance brand visibility. Oversee media agency and maintain relationships with key media partners. Explore new media opportunities (online & offline). Ensure strategic visibility on social media, digital publications and digital platforms of all commercial partners. Oversee local content creations projects in collaboration with Media Manager. Wholesale Co-Op Plans Define and execute all regional Co-Op Media Plans in partnership with Media manager and other Marketing departments. Establish strong relationship with all key wholesale partners in the region (External Boutiques and Multibrand). Press & Public Relations / Talents Management Develop and implement regional press strategy in collaboration with the PR team, in line with brand strategy and global communications campaigns to maximize brand visibility and appreciation. Ensure dispatch and strong influx of relevant information to key media and retailers; ensure qualitative and quantitative press coverage (print and digital). Coordinate public relations activities: press‑related events for new launches, press trips, shootings and talents dressing. Oversee press agency and maintain relationship with key editors and KOLs. Develop and execute a locally relevant Talents / Celebrities engagement plan, aligning with HQ on global vision and practice. Recommend product placements in photoshoots, cinema/TV productions, events and social media. Contribute to growing the KOL database and suggest engagement plans. Monitor, analyze and communicate PR results on a monthly basis. Strategic Partnerships / Communities Engagement Establish and nurture relationships with strategic partners (global with local footprint and regional). Define and execute co‑activations ensuring optimal results for all parties involved. Evaluate opportunities for partnerships and sponsorships on an ongoing basis. Budget Management Manage the Communications budget part of A&P and the Communications costs related to S&D and ensure best ROI of all investments. Negotiate with external partners and optimize costs. Ensure processing of purchase orders and invoices; facilitate new vendors creations in SAP. Leadership Manage a team guiding them in their department’s vision and projects execution. Develop talents density by identifying and executing relevant individual development plans. Qualifications Minimum of 10 years of professional experience or related experience in Communication roles, with a focus on luxury retail sector is a definite advantage. Master’s Degree in marketing, business administration or other related disciplines. Excellent strategic thinking, problem‑solving and strong abilities to translate business objectives into actionable communications plans and campaigns. Strong background in developing and managing communications plans, media campaigns and press engagement activations. Strong knowledge of the North American media and press landscapes. Experience in managing communications budgets and optimizing ROI. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Excellent leadership skills, ability to inspire and motivate a team, fostering a high‑performing environment. Fluent in English. Benefits Employee wellbeing is a top priority at Richemont. We offer a comprehensive benefits program to support employees and their loved ones. Our core benefits include medical, dental, and vision programs. Health savings and flexible spending accounts are also available. The company offers income protection solutions including life insurance, disability benefits, and 401(k) with employer match. Understanding the importance of work‑life balance, our total rewards include paid time off, a wellness reimbursement benefit, and access to the employee assistance program. Employees are encouraged to make a difference in their local communities with volunteer days off, supporting initiatives that drive change. Expected Salary Range: $135,000 - $145,000. Salary will be determined based on relevant skills and experience. #J-18808-Ljbffr Dormont Manufacturing Co