Director External Communications, Adecco

About the role

As External Communications Director for Adecco Global, you’ll plan and execute high-impact strategies that elevate Adecco’s reputation and global presence. You’ll deliver communications of consistently exceptional quality that directly support our business priorities and reinforce Adecco’s leadership in shaping the future of work. You’ll have the opportunity to spearhead flagship external initiatives – from media relations and crisis communications to executive positioning and thought leadership – driving success across regions and industries.

• Plan and implement robust external communications strategies for Adecco globally, ensuring alignment with Group, countries, and business objectives.
• Develop Adecco’s global key messages, working closely with other business functions to ensure these are accurate, compelling and regularly updated.

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key media, securing positive media coverage and positioning Adecco as the ‘go-to’ expert in the industry.
• Lead proactive and reactive media programs that engage top-tier journalists and outlets globally.
• Develop and execute media tactics, including press releases, tailored pitches, and strategic engagement opportunities.

• Support the SVP Global Head of Comms, wider executive team, and other senior leaders in their communication activities, including finding opportunities for media interviews, speaking engagements, and public appearances.
• Develop and execute executive profiling strategies that enhance the visibility and influence of key leaders within Adecco, including on social media.
• Craft compelling narratives, speaker notes and talking points that effectively convey Adecco’s key messages and leadership positions.

• Lead the creation and dissemination of thought leadership content that showcases Adecco’s insights, expertise, and innovations in the workforce solutions sector.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify and develop stories that highlight Adecco’s impact and contributions.
• Oversee the integration of thought leadership content across various communication channels, including digital and social media platforms.

• Develop and maintain crisis communication protocols to effectively manage potential risks and issues, ensuring Adecco’s reputation is protected.
• Provide strategic counsel and support during global crisis situations, acting swiftly to manage communications and mitigate impacts.
• Lead the development of communications plans for handling sensitive issues, working closely with legal and other relevant teams.

• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to align strategies and ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.
• Foster strong partnerships with cross-functional teams globally and in countries, including marketing, legal, HR, and Public Affairs, to support integrated communication efforts.
• Collect and incorporate feedback from stakeholders to continuously refine and enhance communication strategies.

• Establish metrics and OKRs to evaluate the effectiveness of external communications initiatives, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and analyses on communication activities, highlighting successes, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

• A senior external comms professional, with extensive experience in house and/or agency side (a mix preferred but not essential)
• Outstanding verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• A strategic ‘can-do’ mindset with sharp hands-on execution and strong media instincts
• Dynamic, proactive, and adaptable, with a commitment to Adecco’s mission and vision
• Proven success securing top-tier media coverage and building trusted relationships with journalists
• Proven crisis comms expertise
• Experience navigating complex global media environments
• Able to inspire, influence and mentor cross-functional colleagues
• Results-driven, committed to excellence in every…