Associate Director of External Communications – Business

• Shape and execute strategic external communications programs that enhance, differentiate and protect the department’s and Cooley’s reputation
• Lead proactive media relations and reputation-building efforts across the department
• Bring Cooley’s perspective and client work to the forefront of business, technology and legal developments shaping the innovation economy
• Lead and manage in-house and agency communications professionals
• Build and maintain relationships with influential media
• Develop communications strategies with the Department Chair and business practice leadership
• Support strategic priorities and strengthen Cooley’s position in key markets
• Highlight the distinctive capabilities of the firm, its practices and lawyers
• Oversee the department’s awards and recognitions program, including prioritization, processes and key submissions
• Write and edit press releases, media pitches, talking points, statements and other firm communications
• Develop and maintain reporting, policies, protocols and resources for an effective external communications function
• Identify and shape compelling stories around the department, clients and lawyers
• Lead proactive external communications campaigns through earned media, social media, thought leadership and content promotion
• Serve as spokesperson and primary media contact
• Advise firm leaders and lawyers on media strategy, reputation management and sensitive or high-profile matters
• Provide crisis communications counsel, media training and interview preparation
• Develop messaging, media strategies, anticipated questions and responses, and other communications materials
• Mentor direct reports and provide day-to-day supervision
• Ensure compliance with assigned work hours and firm and department policies
• Support business professional development and continued educational opportunities
• Participate in hiring, performance appraisals, counseling, termination and other employee lifecycle events with the supervisor and HR
• Perform other duties as assigned or required

• After orientation at Cooley LLP, proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, iManage and other firm applications
• Ability to work extended and/or weekend hours, as required
• Ability to travel, as required
• Minimum 8 years’ direct experience in communications or public relations with B2B clients and at a management level
• 4+ years’ management experience; some at the senior level preferred
• Bachelor’s degree preferably in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Business or related field
• Experience operating beyond current role expectations, providing strategic leadership, influencing key decisions, and guiding team direction
• Experience leading people and teams, including hiring, employee development, work assignment, performance management, coaching and corrective counseling
• Strong working knowledge of and contacts within National print, broadcast and online media
• Strong understanding of financial markets and business concepts and related subject matter
• Experience with crisis and issues management communications
• Understanding of digital marketing, social media strategies, and content creation best practices
• Experience working in a law firm, professional services, and/or PR agency environment preferred
• 10+ years applicable experience strongly preferred
• Strong executive presence and ability to build credibility and trust with partners
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Exceptional writing skills and strong attention to detail
• Ability to lead others in developing and executing initiatives and large-scale projects
• Ability to motivate others and build effective and cooperative work teams
• Strong interpersonal skills, negotiation skills, and ability to grasp internal politics
• Ability to excel in a fast-paced environment and consistently meet deadlines
• Ability to develop professional relationships internally and externally
• Ability to simplify complex legal and business information into clear, accessible communication

Demonstrates expertise in strategic external communications, media relations, and crisis management, with a strong ability to lead teams and develop impactful messaging. Proficient in building relationships…