Communications Specialist, Product

About Code Metal Code Metal is redefining code translation for mission-critical industries, helping defense partners move more quickly and reliably from algorithm to silicon. Our platform accelerates deployment of DSP, RF, communications, and embedded signal processing algorithms onto heterogeneous compute targets, including GPUs, FPGAs, ASICs, and edge SoCs. We also support automotive, aerospace, and semiconductor partners deploying complex algorithms onto constrained hardware with speed and rigor. Director, Comms - Code Metal Reports to Head of Marketing Role Overview: We are looking for someone to build and lead Code Metal’s Communications function from the ground up, establishing the strategy, relationships, and operational infrastructure needed to drive awareness and credibility across government, commercial, and technology markets. This person will partner closely with company leadership to define the story only Code Metal can tell — translating complex technical innovation into compelling narratives that resonate with media, analysts, customers, investors, and industry influencers. We are looking for someone equally comfortable operating strategically and executing tactically: building long-term thought leadership programs while also managing rapid-response communications in a fast-moving environment. Key Responsibilities: Strategy & Planning Develop and own the integrated PR strategy across government and commercial verticals, with distinct messaging tracks for each audience Design and manage a rolling thunder cadence that keeps Code Metal consistently in the news cycle with a drumbeat of proof points, wins, partnerships, and milestones Partner tightly with the Head of Marketing to align PR activity to pipeline goals, product launches, and campaign timing Help define and evolve Code Metal’s core market narrative, articulating the differentiated story only the company can credibly tell at the intersection of AI, software modernization, and trust Media & Analyst Relations Build relationships from scratch with key journalists across AI/ML, defense tech, enterprise software, and national security beats Establish coverage in tier-1 targets (e.g. WSJ, FT, Bloomberg, Politico, Defense One, FCW, FedScoop, The Information) and key trade outlets relevant to Code Metal's sectors Develop and manage relationships with relevant analysts (Gartner, Forrester, IDC, and government-focused firms) to drive inclusion in key reports and briefings Thought Leadership & Executive Visibility Position Code Metal's executives as credible voices on AI, national security technology, software modernization, and related topics Build and manage Code Metal’s newsroom, blog, and technical content platform to showcase research, engineering talent, product innovation, and customer impact Build scalable executive visibility programs spanning media appearances, podcasts, video content, LinkedIn thought leadership, and internal/external executive communications Secure speaking opportunities at high-value conferences across technology, government (e.g. AWS re:Invent GovCloud, AFCEA, DISA, SXSW Gov) and commercial tracks Ghost-write and place bylines, op-eds, and contributed articles that build narrative authority over time Credibility & Awards Identify and pursue strategic awards, rankings, and recognition programs (Fast Company, Forbes, FedScoop 50, etc.) that validate Code Metal's market position Manage case studies and customer story development in partnership with sales and customer success, navigating the security/clearance constraints typical of government customers Infrastructure & Operations Stand up the PR function: select and manage agency partners or freelancers, implement measurement frameworks, build a press room, and create repeatable processes for rapid response Develop a crisis communications playbook appropriate for a company operating in sensitive government markets Track and report PR impact tied to meaningful metrics — share of voice, coverage quality, analyst positioning, and contribution to pipeline What Success Looks Like (Year 1) Rolling thunder calendar live and producing consistent earned coverage across government, commercial, and broader technology Established relationships with 20+ target journalists and 5+ key analysts Executive thought leadership program running with regular speaking engagements, byline placements, podcasts, video content, and media opportunities Created a scalable communications function operating with clear processes, agency/freelancer support, strong media relationships, and a measurement dashboard Benefits Pay depends on experience, but we strive to be at the upper end of the salary range Health care plan with 100% premium coverage, including medical, dental, and vision 401k with 5% matching Paid Time Off (uncapped vacation, plus sick and public holidays) Flexible hybrid or remote work arrangement Relocation assistance for qualifying employees Wage Transparency - The salary range for this role is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as the final offer amount may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, individual proficiency, skills, experience, and location. We are an equal opportunity employer. US Citizenship may be required for certain project assignments involving security clearance. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. #J-18808-Ljbffr