Communications Manager; Local & Launch Communications

• Zipline is hiring a Communications Manager, Local & Launch Communications to serve as the primary communications lead for new market, store and site launches
• This new role owns local and launch communications end-to-end — pre-launch through early and mature operations — and is the day-to-day point person for traditional media, new media, creators/influencers, and visual storytelling partners in new markets
• You will build trust and excitement in local communities, cultivate and shape Zipline’s reputation as we launch, and ensure every new deployment lands with clarity, credibility, and momentum
• Own communications for in market site and store launches, serving as the main point of contact for all local and launch-related comms
• Plan and execute integrated launch communications across traditional media, digital and new media, and visual storytelling
• Build and manage strong relationships with local, regional, and national reporters, creators/influencers, and You Tubers
• Lead story development, media outreach, interviews, and on-the-ground press moments tied to launches and milestones
• Partner with videographers, photographers, and designers to capture and deploy high-quality visual content from launches and operations
• Develop core messaging and media materials including press releases, talking points, FAQs, reactive statements, blog posts, and video briefs
• Support launch events, media tours, and community moments with a strong PR and storytelling lens
• Provide clear, confident communications counsel to cross-functional partners including Operations, Government Relations, Community, Marketing, and Design
• Monitor and manage local issues or misinformation, escalating and responding quickly when needed
• Plan and execute events, with a sharable/viral lens to them
• Train and advise local team members on communications and messaging
• Serve as a Zipline spokesperson

This role is ideal for a hands-on communications leader who thrives in fast-moving environments and knows how to turn complex operations into compelling local stories

You are equal parts creative and strategic

Excellent attention to detail, project management and writing skills, paired with exceptional judgment and a strong understanding of the media landscape and/or local markets

You are a good writer and have excellent attention to detail

You’re comfortable as an “intrepreneur,” look for ways to continuous improve and take ownership

Proven success working directly with traditional media and emerging media, including creators and digital platforms. Past work experience with creators, influencers and new media is a plus

You are passionate and excited about Zipline’s mission, impact and products

Prior success collaborating cross-functionally with diverse, globally distributed teams

High ownership mindset, excellent project management skills, and comfort operating independently as the local comms lead7+ years of communications experience in-house, agency, media, or politics; launch and local market experience strongly preferred

Experience managing visual storytelling projects and working closely with videographers, managing on-site video crews or content teams

You’re a self-starter and collaborate well cross-functionally

Desire and ability to travel for work (approximately 35%)Curiosity, creativity, and a passion for storytelling along with the ability to sniff out potential newshooks and stories

You are intellectually curious and a team player

You are comfortable working with the media and building relationships with them Strong news/viral judgment, crisp writing skills, and the ability to simplify complex topics

You like to work in fast-paced environments, are great at multitasking, and can go with the flow