Associate Director of External Communications - Business

Shape and execute strategic external communications programs that enhance, differentiate and protect the department’s and Cooley’s reputation Lead proactive media relations and reputation-building efforts across the department Bring Cooley’s perspective and client work to the forefront of business, technology and legal developments shaping the innovation economy Lead and manage in-house and agency communications professionals Build and maintain relationships with influential media Develop communications strategies with the Department Chair and business practice leadership Support strategic priorities and strengthen Cooley’s position in key markets Highlight the distinctive capabilities of the firm, its practices and lawyers Oversee the department’s awards and recognitions program, including prioritization, processes and key submissions Write and edit press releases, media pitches, talking points, statements and other firm communications Develop and maintain reporting, policies, protocols and resources for an effective external communications function Identify and shape compelling stories around the department, clients and lawyers Lead proactive external communications campaigns through earned media, social media, thought leadership and content promotion Serve as spokesperson and primary media contact Advise firm leaders and lawyers on media strategy, reputation management and sensitive or high-profile matters Provide crisis communications counsel, media training and interview preparation Develop messaging, media strategies, anticipated questions and responses, and other communications materials Mentor direct reports and provide day-to-day supervision Ensure compliance with assigned work hours and firm and department policies Support business professional development and continued educational opportunities Participate in hiring, performance appraisals, counseling, termination and other employee lifecycle events with the supervisor and HR Perform other duties as assigned or required Requirements After orientation at Cooley LLP, 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 in communications or public relations with B2B clients and at a management level 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 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 understanding of 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 Experience working in a law firm, professional services, and/or PR agency environment preferred 10+ years applicable experience strongly preferred Strong executive presence and ability to build credibility and trust with partners Excellent written and verbal communication skills Exceptional writing skills and strong attention to detail Ability to lead others in developing and executing initiatives and large-scale projects Ability to motivate others and build effective and cooperative work teams Strong interpersonal skills, negotiation skills, and ability to grasp internal politics Ability to excel in a fast-paced environment and consistently meet deadlines Ability to develop professional relationships internally and externally Ability to simplify complex legal and business information into clear, accessible communication Core Competencies Demonstrates expertise in strategic external communications, media relations, and crisis management, with a strong ability to lead teams and develop impactful messaging. Proficient in building relationships with media and stakeholders while ensuring compliance with firm policies and enhancing the firm's reputation. Highest-signal resume keywords Strategic External Communications Media Relations Crisis Communications Team Leadership Digital Marketing ATS Optimization Keywords Hard Skills Press Release Writing Media Strategy Development Content Creation Crisis Management Performance Management Communications Strategy Public Relations Media Training Reporting and Policy Development Negotiation Soft Skills Interpersonal Skills Attention to Detail Motivational Leadership Executive Presence Communication Skills Industry Keywords B2B Communications Legal Communications Professional Services Public Relations Agency Financial Markets Tools & Technologies Microsoft Office Suite IManage Social Media Platforms Content Promotion Tools Media Monitoring Tools #J-18808-Ljbffr Jobtailor