Public Relations Vice President (Enterprise, Financial Services, Security)

About us
Highwire is a modern strategic communications and digital marketing agency designed for disruptive companies. We work with high-growth technology companies and established brands looking to reinvent themselves. 
At Highwire, we believe that storytelling fuels transformation. And the most impactful stories represent all voices and perspectives. As a values-driven agency, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of age, race/ethnicity, size, shape, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and different abilities–can feel safe, celebrated and worthy. 
We ensure every Highwire Walker has unique support to climb to success. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging is permanent and foundational to our business and culture. We aspire to change our industry and build a better future for all.
Our people-first culture is driven by four core values:• Team Empowerment • Growth Mindset• Inclusion Always• Fierce Distinction 
We’re looking for individuals with big ideas, strong opinions, and the energy to bring them to life. If you thrive in an environment that values personal accountability, high standards, and boundless motivation, this is the opportunity for you. Be part of our award-winning culture and contribute to an exciting and growing business where you can make a real impact. 
We are based in San Francisco, with offices in New York and Chicago. We are open to hiring in the following states: California, Connecticut, Florida, llinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C.
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯The Vice President position is a unique opportunity to become a leader for an innovative PR agency. As a senior member of our management team, our Vice President has to be a visionary creative type with 10+ years of experience growing teams and delighting clients. The Vice President will also be involved in new business development and operational leadership.  As a growing boutique public relations firm, the Vice President role is a pivotal position as this individual will serve as a mentor, manager and lead example for all account teams on client management, quality assurance, staff development and strategic guidance.  If you have been waiting to discover a role that allows you to be a catalyst in a thriving, meaningful workplace, then Highwire might be just the place for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement an integrated strategic communications plan to advance brand identity.
• Create marketing/public relations strategy that will allow Highwire to cultivate and enhance meaningful relationships with targeted, high-level external audiences, including the media and key influencers
• Identify challenges and emerging issues faced by the organization.
• Work with leadership team and staff to recognize internal and external communications opportunities and solutions, and define and execute appropriate strategies to support them.
• Serve as a spokesperson and lead point person on media interactions that help promote and/or impact the organization.
• Oversee the day-to-day activities of the communications function including budgeting, planning and staff development.
• Recruit and manage a communications team to support the development and execution of the communications strategy.
• Promote a culture of high performance and continuous improvement that values learning and a commitment to quality.
• Manage, mentor and develop staff using a supportive and collaborative approach on a consistent basis.
• Establish and monitor staff performance and development goals, assign accountabilities, set objectives, establish priorities, conduct annual performance appraisals.
• Attend networking events, seminars and conferences, including out-of-hours, as required to maintain personal professional development and to build networking and new business contacts.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or related field is required. 
• Minimum 10 years experience in a senior management role either in-house or with an agency.
• Demonstrated skill and comfort in proactively building relationships with top tier reporters and editors, and in successfully positioning subject matter with the media to achieve high-impact placements. 
• Extensive successful writing and editing experience (externally focused) with a variety of print and online communications media. 
• Experience with social media influencer engagement, content campaigns, and media coverage amplification. 
• Demonstrated experience and leadership in managing a comprehensive