External Communications Specialist

NOTE: This role is hybrid and requires 3 days a week onsite in our Phoenix, AZ office. Job Summary The External Communications Specialist develops and executes comprehensive public relations strategies across all business lines to enhance the public image and brand equity of the AAA Mountain West Group (MWG). Serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Northern California, Nevada, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming, the Specialist acts as the primary regional spokesperson and media lead for their assigned footprint. In this role, you will spearhead high‑impact PR initiatives, manage crisis communications, align efforts with internal teams, and analyze media trends for strategic insights. Essential Functions Public Relations Develop and execute comprehensive external communications strategies to enhance the organization's public image, localizing the leadership framework, messaging tracks, and media targets for the assigned region. Serve as a primary spokesperson for the Club, managing incoming media inquiries and interviews, including preparing for and participating in regular weekend studio segments, live broadcast interviews, and press requests. Design, pitch, and execute proactive PR campaigns around key company initiatives and public safety issues to consistently secure positive, high‑impact coverage. Oversee the creation of messaging materials, including talking points, press releases, social media content, and scripts for organization announcements and marketing campaigns. Brand Reputation Act as the primary lead for crisis events, managing sensitive issues, overall crisis communication strategies, and intense investigative media inquiries. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with media contacts, journalists, and industry influencers to secure sustained media coverage and partnerships. Direct the proactive use of PR methods to advance the company's public image, collaborating with external stakeholders to manage guest speakers and vetting participation requests for high‑profile public engagements. Stakeholder Relations/Media Monitoring Provide expert communications counsel to business leaders and collaborate closely with internal partners to align external communication efforts with overall business objectives. Partner with internal departments and AAA Inc. to identify and develop impactful narratives, data‑backed insights, and engaging stories that strengthen the brand's presence. Identify and mentor key internal subject matter experts (SMEs) to become effective media commentators, thereby expanding the organization's pool of external spokespersons. Monitor and analyze media coverage and industry trends to identify risks and opportunities, while actively measuring and reporting on the overall effectiveness of PR campaigns to key leadership. Knowledge And Skills Strong strategic thinking with the ability to develop, lead, and implement comprehensive external communications strategies. Demonstrated experience serving as a primary spokesperson, managing day‑to‑day media inquiries, and handling high‑stakes live media interviews. Proficiency in crisis communications strategies and advanced understanding of issues management frameworks, with a proven track record of handling rapid‑response situations, intense investigative reporting, and maintaining sound judgment under tight deadlines. Demonstrated ability to cultivate and sustain strong, trusted professional relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including regional journalists, news editors, industry influencers, government officials, and coalition partners. Proven success in monitoring and analyzing media coverage and industry trends to identify strategic opportunities and potential risks. Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance multiple complex work streams and lead cross‑functional projects independently in a fast‑paced environment. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Communication, Journalism, or related field. 5 years experience in public relations, media, corporate communications, or a relevant field. Preferred Qualifications Professional fluency in Spanish, including experience serving as a bilingual media spokesperson. Prior experience working within a fast‑paced public relations agency or client‑service oriented role. 5+ years of experience specifically focused on media relations and on‑camera spokesperson roles. #J-18808-Ljbffr