Associate Director of External Communications; Business

Associate Director of External Communications (Business) Cooley is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications for Business to join the Communications team.

Working closely with the Director of Communications, firm leadership, the broader communications team and other business functions, the Associate Director of External Communications - Business will help shape and execute strategic external communications programs that enhance, differentiate and protect the department’s and Cooley’s reputation. The role will lead proactive media relations and reputation-building efforts across the department, helping to bring Cooley’s perspective and client work to the forefront of the business, technology and legal developments shaping the innovation economy.

• Position responsibilities:
  
  Lead and manage a team of in-house and agency communications professionals responsible for building and maintaining relationships with influential media
• Work closely with the Department Chair and business practice leadership to develop communications strategies that support strategic priorities, strengthen Cooley’s position in key markets and highlight the distinctive capabilities of the firm, its practices and lawyers
• Oversee the strategic direction of the awards and recognitions program for the department, including prioritization, processes and the development of key submissions
• Write and edit press releases, media pitches, talking points, statements and other firm communications
• Develop and maintain reporting, policies, protocols and resources that support a coordinated and effective external communications function
• Identify and shape compelling stories around the department, its clients and its lawyers, particularly across the industries and issues driving the innovation economy
• Lead proactive external communications campaigns that position Cooley business lawyers as authoritative voices through earned media, social media, thought leadership and content promotion
• Serve as a spokesperson and primary point of contact for media inquiries
• 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
• Team leadership and management:
  Serve as mentor to direct reports
• Provide day-to-day supervision of direct reports, ensure compliance with assigned work hours and monitor for compliance with all firm and department policies
• Support business professional development and continued educational opportunities
• In collaboration with immediate supervisor and HR, participate in hiring, performance appraisals, counseling, termination and other employee lifecycle events
• Perform other duties as assigned or required

• After orientation at Cooley LLP, exhibit 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 (e.g., communications, public relations experience with B2B clients and at a management level) with 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 at a level 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 handle on 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.
• 10+…