Director of Communications - Benchmark Strategies : Job Details

Position Overview

The Director of Communications at Benchmark Strategies is a senior role responsible for driving impactful communications to enhancing brand visibility and build media strategies for a diverse range of clients. This role requires a skilled multi-disciplined communications professional including media strategist to lead multi-channel campaigns, leveraging deep industry knowledge and established network and media relationships.

The Director will oversee comprehensive communications including media initiatives, from traditional and digital channels to influencer marketing, to elevate client brands in competitive markets. This individual will serve as a trusted communications advisor to clients, provide strategic counsel on communications including media relations, and manage crisis communication efforts as needed. Additionally, the Director will mentor and develop junior team members, ensuring they stay ahead of emerging market and media trends.

This position is ideal for an experienced communications professional with media expertise along with a proven track record in consumer PR, high-profile media campaigns, and team leadership within an agency setting.

Primary Responsibilities

· Develop and oversee comprehensive communications strategies including media strategies, as well as traditional, digital, and social channels, to support client goals and PR campaigns.

· Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with national, regional, and industry-specific media outlets and journalists.

· Lead media outreach efforts, including proactive pitching, media briefings, press releases, and story placements.

· Drive consumer public relations efforts, developing strategies that align with consumer behaviors and trends to elevate brand visibility in competitive markets.

· Lead and execute influencer marketing campaigns, identifying key influencers and ambassadors to enhance brand credibility and reach targeted audiences.

· Serve as a strategic communications advisor to clients, providing counsel on media outreach, story development, and message positioning.

· Manage and mentor other team members, ensuring they meet client goals and stay updated on media trends.

· Stay current on emerging communications and media trends, tools, and platforms to continuously enhance the company's media strategy capabilities.

· Monitor media coverage, analyze performance metrics, and prepare reports to track the success of media campaigns.

· Lead crisis communications efforts as necessary, helping to mitigate reputational risks through strategic media management.

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field.

7+ years of experience in strategic communications, media strategy, or public relations, preferably in an agency setting.

Experience in consumer PR, with a strong understanding of consumer media and influencer strategies.

Proven track record of securing media coverage in top-tier outlets and managing high-profile media relations campaigns.

Strong network and relationships with media contacts across various industries and platforms.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling stories and pitch angles.

Ability to think strategically, work under pressure, and manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Experience managing teams and mentoring junior staff.

Knowledge of social media and digital communications trends is a plus.

Strong analytical skills with the ability to track and report on media metrics and campaign effectiveness.

Experience in crisis communications and issue management is preferred.

Benchmark Strategies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all staff.