Senior Manager, External Communications and Branding

POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Manager, External Communications & Branding leads Winston & Strawn's external brand and communications strategy. The role directs the firm's media relations resources and manages the firm's visual identity, client brand experience, and online presence, including website, social media, and thought leadership.

The role works directly with a broad array of firm constituents, including firm leadership, partners, and various firm departments. This position requires a high level of attention to detail, responsiveness, critical thinking skills, professionalism, and the ability to manage and prioritize multiple simultaneous requests in an effective manner.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Acts as a key strategic business partner to stakeholders and is responsible for designing and implementing external marketing communication programs and PR strategy.
• Works with the Director of Executive Communications and Managing Director of BD & Marketing on crisis communications, including managing press outreach as needed.
• Directs the firm's visual identity and ensures it is being used appropriately across all mediums.
• Leads the development of the brand's messaging and creative outlets.
• Proactively partners with senior staff leadership in the development and management of brand messaging for non-BD areas.
• Ensures all external communication programs are integrated and optimized.
• Partners with Business Intelligence and Data Analytics and website/social media teams to improve ROI on all external communications initiatives.
• Provides oversight to PR manager in managing and leveraging the work of outside media agencies and directs media strategy for key firm events.
• Oversees the development of content and functionality for Winston.com.
• Collaborates closely with other Marketing & Business Development leaders.
• Manages, trains, and mentors the Marketing Communications and Graphics teams, including four direct and six indirect reports.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (Must be listed on resume to be considered):

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field required.
• 10+ years' experience in marketing communications, media, and/or public relations in a large global law firm or professional services environment required.

COMPETENCIES

• An advance degree in Marketing or Business is preferred.
• Strong client service focus with the ability to navigate complex, matrixed organizations.
• Ability to establish credibility and build strong relationships at all levels of the firm across practices and geographies.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully managing, leading, and mentoring a team.
• Strong writing and verbal communication and excellent presentation skills. Ability to effectively tailor communications for different stakeholders.
• Proven experience with website development and maintenance and social media platforms.
• Extremely detail-oriented, strong organization, and excellent project management skills.
• Demonstrated high level of diplomacy, confidentiality, and excellent judgment in navigating sensitive issues.
• Proven budgeting, project management, organizational, and planning skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to address urgent needs that arise after hours and weekends.
• Analytical with ability to outline methodologies that can be easily followed by others.
• Ability to identify unique solutions to complex issues.

BENEFITS

In addition to paying competitive, market-based salaries, Winston offers comprehensive benefits that provide a full spectrum of coverage and support for our full-time employees and their families. Our generous benefits and perks, which are subject to eligibility and may change from time to time, include:

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

• Medical, dental, and vision plans - coverage begins on the first day of employment
• Life & disability insurance
• Pre-tax commuter benefit
• Employee assistance program
• Free premium access to the Calm app
• Mental health first aid responders
  

WORK-LIFE INTEGRATION

• 24/7 concierge service
• Back-up child and elder care through Bright Horizons
• Free overnight shipment of breast milk for nursing moms when they travel for work
• On-site nursing rooms

RETIREMENT

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Firm-funded retirement plan

TIME OFF

• 10 paid holidays per year
• 10 sick/personal days per year
• Paid vacation time
• Up to 2 days of paid time off to participate in Winston for Good activities

We value diversity in the workplace. EOE/Minorities/Females/Vets/Disabled (EOE=Equal Opportunity Employer) #LI_DC2