Manager, Corporate Communications

Manager of Corporate Communications

Location: Minneapolis or Nashwauk, Minnesota

About Mesabi Metallics: When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota's mining history: Mesabi Metallics' cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed, it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years. More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day. At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

Position Overview: Mesabi Metallics is seeking a strategic and experienced Manager of Corporate Communications to lead our external and internal corporate communications strategies. The role will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive, multi-channel communication strategies that align with the company's business objectives, enhance its corporate image, and build brand recognition. The position plays a crucial role in enhancing and protecting Mesabi Metallics' reputation, both internally and externally. The role reports directly to the Chief Development Officer (CDO) and requires a seasoned individual with excellent skills in strategic thinking, leadership, written and verbal communications, media relations, strategic relationship building, digital and social media, crisis and reputation management, and professional ethics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute an integrated corporate communications strategy that supports Mesabi Metallics' business goals and enhances its reputation.
• Advise senior leadership on comprehensive messaging strategies to enhance public perception and stakeholder engagement for Mesabi Metallics.
• Collaborate closely with senior leadership, government affairs, operations, legal, and HR teams to ensure the accuracy of communications and integrate communication strategies across all business functions.
• Manage crisis communication planning and strategies, including responding to media inquiries during sensitive situations.
• Develop clear and compelling institutional positioning statements that articulate Mesabi Metallics' strategic objectives, values, and unique market position. Serve as the primary keeper of these statements to ensure accuracy and consistency across the organization.
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and regulatory developments to identify opportunities and risks for proactive communication strategies.
• Oversee the company's internal communications initiatives, ensuring effective communication with employees at all levels.
• Draft, implement, and maintain a Corporate Media Policy to establish guidelines and procedures for engaging with the media in a manner that protects and enhances Mesabi Metallics' reputation, ensures consistent messaging, and complies with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Measure and analyze the effectiveness of internal and external communication efforts through metrics such as media coverage, stakeholder feedback, and brand perception, making data-driven adjustments as needed.

Media Relations:

• Serve as the company's primary point of contact for media inquiries, ensuring consistent messaging and effective media relations.
• Serve as the company's spokesperson in the press when needed.
• Identify opportunities for proactive positioning of Mesabi Metallics in the press, working with reporters to pitch and shape favorable stories.
• Maintain awareness of all media activities related to Mesabi Metallics, appropriately notifying senior leadership of upcoming press stories.
• Lead public relations training for designated Mesabi Metallics employees, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to effectively interact with the media, deliver key messages to the public, and uphold the company's reputation during interviews and speaking engagements.

Corporate Brand Integrity and Messaging:

• Serve as the brand guardian, stewarding Mesabi Metallics' brand identity and ensuring its consistent representation across all internal and external communications, materials, and interactions.
• Develop a consistent and compelling brand voice to be used across all channels, ensuring alignment with the company's values, mission, and target audiences.
• Lead the implementation of a strategy or system to maintain the company's brand integrity and voice consistently and effectively across all channels, including social media, web, job postings, and media interviews.

Content Creation and Management:

• Create compelling and timely content for press releases, corporate announcements, and other communication materials.
• Work with Branding Manager to develop and execute integrated marketing strategies as needed and coordinate planning and implementation of events to enhance brand visibility and drive engagement for Mesabi Metallics.
• Draft internal communications content, including but not limited to communications from the CEO, rollout of policies, and corporate change items, ensuring alignment of messaging and fostering employee engagement and morale.
• Oversee digital and social media content to ensure brand consistency and alignment with key messages and narrative goals.

Relationship Building:

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including media contacts, industry influencers, government agencies, and community organizations.
• Utilize external relationships to effectively convey Mesabi Metallics' narrative and achievements through trusted external voices.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment of messaging across all communication channels, including digital platforms and social media.

People Management:

• As the organization grows, manage a highly-productive team of communications professionals, providing leadership, guidance, and mentorship to ensure high performance and professional growth.
• Oversee and manage communications contractors and external agencies, ensuring alignment with Mesabi Metallics' communication strategies, budgetary considerations, and quality standards.
• Foster a positive and productive work environment and model excellence in values, ethics, and performance standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
• At least 5 years of proven experience in corporate communications, public relations, or a related role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear and compelling messages for different audiences.
• Strong leadership abilities and experience managing a team of communications professionals.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strategic thinker with a track record of developing and implementing successful communication strategies.
• Experience in crisis management and handling sensitive issues with diplomacy and professionalism.
• Knowledge of digital communications and social media platforms.
• Understanding of regulatory requirements, ethics, and industry standards related to corporate communications.
• Knowledge of or experience in the natural resources or mining sectors.

Salary: $110,000 - $145,000, depending on experience and qualifications

Benefits: Mesabi Metallics offers competitive compensation and benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development and advancement within the company.

Application Process: To apply for the Manager, Corporate Communications position at Mesabi Metallics, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role. We look forward to reviewing your application and considering you for this exciting opportunity to join our dynamic team. Mesabi Metallics is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace.