Director Corporate Communications

Job Description

Paylocity is an award-winning provider of cloud-based HR and payroll software solutions, offering the most complete platform for the modern workforce. The company has become one of the fastest-growing HCM software providers worldwide by offering an intuitive, easy-to-use product suite that helps businesses automate and streamline HR and payroll processes, attract and retain talent, and build a strong workplace culture.

Full-time

We are seeking a strategic and experienced Director Corporate Communications to lead Paylocity’s communications strategy across key channels and audiences. This role is responsible for managing the company’s reputation and consistently driving aligned messaging across media, social, and analyst relations.

The ideal candidate will be a skilled communicator, experienced in leading communication functions in a complex, fast-paced, publicly traded environment. While this role partners closely with the Investor Relations team, it does not directly own investor or financial communications.

• Develop and execute strategic communications plans that strengthen brand reputation and trust.
• Lead media relations strategy, including proactive storytelling, executive visibility, and reactive issues management.
• Serve as company spokesperson or prepare spokespeople for high‑stakes interviews and media engagements.
• Manage agency partners for media outreach, press releases, and coverage tracking.
• Oversee corporate social media presence (organic), ensuring consistent brand voice and thought leadership.
• Collaborate with brand and marketing teams on paid/owned/earned content strategies.
• Manage content calendars, channel strategy, and performance measurement.
• Build and manage relationships with key industry analysts and influencers.
• Coordinate analyst briefings, inquiries, and participation in industry evaluations and rankings.
• Support positioning in key reports (e.g., Gartner Magic Quadrant, Forrester Wave).
• Serve as a key leader in crisis response planning and execution.
• Develop messaging and stakeholder engagement strategies to mitigate reputational risk.
• Partner with legal, risk, compliance, and HR on sensitive or high‑impact communications.

• 10+ years of experience in corporate communications, public relations, or related fields.
• Proven experience managing communications in a large, matrixed, and publicly traded environment.
• Strong background in media relations, crisis communications, and executive communications.
• Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills with keen attention to tone and clarity.
• Deep understanding of social media best practices and digital engagement trends.
• Familiarity with analyst relations and industry evaluation processes.
• Ability to manage agencies and cross‑functional teams with efficiency and influence.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field. Master’s degree is a plus.

• Calm under pressure; confident dealing with ambiguity and rapid change.
• High emotional intelligence and sound judgment when navigating sensitive issues.
• Strategic thinker who’s also hands‑on and execution‑focused.
• Collaborative leadership style with experience influencing at all levels.

The base pay range for this position is $175,000 - $190,000/yr; however, base pay offered may vary depending on job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience.

This position is eligible for an annual bonus and restricted stock unit grant based on individual performance in addition to a full range of benefits.

We offer medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and a 401(k) match, as well as perks that support you, your family, and your finances.

Paylocity is an equal‑opportunity employer. Paylocity is committed to the full inclusion of all individuals. We recruit, train, compensate, and promote regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

We comply with federal and state disability laws and make reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the job application or interview process, please contact

Applicants should apply via