External Communications Lead

Job Summary

The External Communications Lead is responsible for developing and executing strategic communications programs that strengthen the organization’s reputation, elevate its brand, and support business objectives. This role serves as a trusted communications advisor to leaders and internal stakeholders, translating complex business priorities, projects, and initiatives into compelling external narratives that engage clients, industry audiences, media, and the broader public.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute external communications strategies aligned with organizational priorities, business goals, and brand positioning.
• Partner with senior leaders and business teams to identify storytelling opportunities that enhance reputation and market visibility.
• Create communications plans for major announcements, initiatives, campaigns, projects, and milestones.
• Provide counsel and communications support to executives and subject matter experts.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with trade media, industry publications, and external partners.
• Develop media strategies, pitches, press releases, briefing materials, key messages, and talking points.
• Identify opportunities to position company leaders and experts as trusted voices through interviews, bylines, speaking opportunities, and thought leadership.
• Maintain media coverage, industry trends, and reputational issues to inform communications strategies.
• Support issues management and crisis communications efforts as needed.
• Write and edit high-quality content for external audiences, including: press releases, website content, executive communications, articles, and thought leadership pieces.
• Transform technical, business, and industry information into clear, engaging stories.
• Collaborate with marketing, customer experience, and technical teams to develop content that demonstrates expertise and impact.
• Help strengthen and protect the organization’s external reputation through consistent messaging and storytelling.
• Manage multiple communications projects from strategy through execution, ensuring quality, accuracy, and timely delivery.
• Coordinate with agencies, vendors, and external partners when needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in corporate communications, public relations, media relations, or related roles.
• Proven experience developing and executing external communications strategies.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to communicate complex topics clearly.
• Experience working with senior executives and providing communications counsel.
• Demonstrated success securing media coverage and building external relationships.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Strong judgment, attention to detail, and ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in engineering, infrastructure, professional services, technology, or another complex industry.
• Experience communicating technical topics to broad audiences.
• Experience supporting global brands or multi-location organizations.
• Knowledge of media monitoring, measurement, and communications analytics.
• Experience with thought leadership programs and executive visibility strategies.