Senior Manager, External Communications (Media)

The Senior Manager, External Communications is a seasoned communications leader with deep media relationships, exceptional storytelling instincts, and a proven track record of managing complex, high‑profile media strategies in collaboration with senior leaders. Reporting to the Director, External Communications for Disney Experiences (DX), this role leads a team of communications professionals and oversees global media relations efforts that elevate brand visibility, protect reputation, and manage complex issues across Disney’s theme parks, resorts, cruise line, and Walt Disney Imagineering businesses.

Responsibilities

• Leadership & Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of media‑relations professionals, including manager‑level talent; set strategic direction, establish priorities, and oversee execution of proactive media strategies across traditional and emerging platforms; partner with the Manager, External Communications Campaigns & Integration on high‑impact media plans.
• Media Strategy & Outreach: Develop and execute integrated media strategies that elevate visibility and reputation across Tier 1, trade, regional, niche, and emerging media; cultivate relationships with journalists, editors, producers, creators, and other influential voices; lead rapid‑response efforts and manage sensitive or high‑stakes media inquiries.
• Issues & Crisis Communication: Lead development and execution of media strategies during DX issues and crises; ensure timely, transparent, and effective communication; anticipate emerging reputational risks and partner with senior communications leaders to guide media response under pressure.
• Storytelling & Content Development: Collaborate across DX businesses to identify and develop compelling stories that showcase innovation, leadership, guest focus, and business impact; oversee creation of press materials, media pitches, and executive messaging; prepare senior leaders and spokespeople for media engagements.
• Measurement & Optimization: Establish KPIs and reporting frameworks to assess media and reputational impact; continuously optimize strategy; stay ahead of media trends, emerging platforms, and industry shifts, including the evolving use of AI.

Basic Qualifications

• 7+ years of media relations experience with global brands, high‑profile government work, or an agency, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success securing and managing coverage in Tier 1 outlets such as The New York Times, Bloomberg, and CNN.
• Excellent written, oral communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience leading issues and crisis communications.
• Ability to independently identify opportunities, anticipate challenges, and develop strategic communications recommendations.
• Proven ability to navigate complex organizations, build cross‑functional partnerships, and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience leading teams, developing manager‑level talent, and setting priorities in fast‑paced environments.
• Strong business judgment, creative thinking, initiative, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Willingness and ability to work a flexible schedule as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years of media relations experience.
• Experience in the travel and leisure, entertainment, and/or consumer goods industries.
• Bilingual abilities.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Pay

The hiring range for this position in California is $139,200.00 to $186,600.00 per year. Base pay will consider internal equity, geographic region, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. A bonus and/or long‑term incentive units may be provided, along with a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.