External Communications Manager
Job Description
The External Communications Manager supports the firm’s proactive and reactive public relations strategy by identifying, pitching and placing opportunities that align with firm, practice, industry, and individual profile-raising priorities. This position is fully embedded in an integrated and global marketing, communications and business development team and partners with firm stakeholders to successfully implement strategic communication programs.
Essential Functions And Responsibilities
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with priority media outlets and key industry influencers
- Develop strong relationships with firm stakeholders, including leadership, lawyers and lateral hires; collaborate with the wider brand and communications teams, business development, events and practice/industry marketing teams to implement strategic communication programs that align with business objectives and plans
- Monitor ongoing industry trends, editorial calendars and competitor activity; provide trend analysis
- Identify media opportunities; actively lead topic generation efforts and collaborate across practices and markets
- Pitch and place profile-raising coverage
- Craft media messages, including research and writing of press releases, drafting of deal announcements and other client-related communications as well as copy for the firm website
- Serve as a firm contact for media requests; coordinate information and interview preparation
- Collaborate with external agencies as directed by communications leaders
- Leverage the firm’s news distribution and media monitoring tools
- Track and report on KPIs and media metrics; maintain working knowledge of firm technologies and other resources
- Track and report coverage using internal announcements, newsletters and .com, among others
- Align and help implement firmwide processes related to media relations
- Provide back-up support to the global communications team
Job Specifications
- Bachelor’s Degree
- At least five (5) years of related work experience
- Knowledge of news distribution, media monitoring and tracking software
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Ability to work under tight deadlines and prioritize responsibilities
- Ability to handle and maintain confidential information
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to work independently and under own direction and initiative
- Ability to travel as needed
Target Hiring Range
$138,000 – $194,000
Physical Demands And Work Environment
- Sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, stoop, talk and hear
- Occasionally lift up to twenty (20) pounds
- Typical indoor office environment
About the Role
At McDermott, we don’t just invest in your future, we accelerate your career – wherever it may lead. That includes supporting you both in and outside of the office. With Us, You’ll Find A firm where everyone belongs: Our award-winning culture prioritizes warmth and authenticity — we encourage you to be yourself!