DIRECTOR-A&G - Director of Corporate Communications

Objectives of this Role

Lead integrated strategic communications strategies that strengthen awareness of SwRI’s programs and elevate the corporate brand.
Partner with leadership to support business development through targeted messaging, tools and communications guidance.
Enhance storytelling and develop marketing materials and promotional content for technical and administrative groups.
Provide expert communication support to media, the public, and other audiences in accordance with Institute policies.
Serve as SwRI’s spokesperson and lead high-level media engagements.
Manage internal and external corporate communications channels, including websites, publications, press releases, media relations, social media, events, tradeshows, and other digital and print platforms.
Oversee specialists delivering design, videography, photography, audio, print, and web services.
Support special assignments and strategic initiatives on behalf of SwRI leadership.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities

• Oversee the Communications Department by managing daily operations and directing a staff of approximately 35, including budgeting, project coordination, performance management, employee development, and billing.
• Lead Communications initiatives identified by Executive Leadership and Institute Vice Presidents.
• Review internal and external communication materials to ensure quality and alignment with corporate policy.
• Identify and resolve issues related to planning, content development, production and workflows.
• Support Executive Leadership by drafting and editing sensitive or high-profile communications.
• Provide presentations to technical teams on leveraging communications for business development and outreach efforts.
• Present onboarding overviews about SwRI and the Communications department.
• Stay current on best practices in print, digital and support-service communications to continuously improve department programs.
• Provide timely notification and follow-up reporting on emergencies, accidents, illnesses, and other critical issues to the appropriate SwRI POCs and the Executive Team, after reporting such incidents to emergency responders, if necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Digital Media Communications, Public Relations, English, or related field required; advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of twenty years of corporate communications experience in an R&D or technical environment.
• Proven skills in internal/external communications, media/public relations, and crisis management.
• Strong technical and creative writing, proofreading, and editing abilities.
• Familiarity with stylebooks, media monitoring tools, and performance measurement utilities.
• Capable of leading projects independently, setting objectives, and implementing solutions.
• Effective interpersonal and teamwork skills, able to motivate staff for high-quality content.
• Able to meet deadlines under pressure.
• Hightly organized and detail-oriented.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and Teams.
• Valid driver's license required.

Special Requirements

• Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
• Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.