Vice President, Corporate Reputation and Public Affairs

Description

MikeWorldWide is seeking a well-rounded senior communications professional as Vice President in its New Jersey-based offices. This is a high-growth, high-visibility role for a client service-obsessed leader with experience leading multi-dimensional, multi-workstream accounts. Our ideal candidate is a modern, integrated thinker with a command of the rapidly changing environment of public opinion: well-versed in the use of digital and paid strategies, forward-thinking about the emerging requirements of ESG and expectations of C-level leaders across stakeholders and rooted in active, hands-on management of earned media. If you understand and live in the intersection of reputation management, public relations, public policy, and community relations and possess a deep understanding of these dynamics in New Jersey and New York, this role is for you. 

We are seeking candidates with a demonstrated ability to think critically and write persuasively to move stakeholders to action. Experience and background in thought leadership, executive visibility, and media relations (national and local) are required. The position also will involve participation in business development strategies and activities, including proposal writing and development.

This leader must be adept at managing integrated teams of professionals with diverse backgrounds, levels of experience, and skillsets and possess the ability to create mission and strategy alignment, clarity of roles and clear priorities and objectives. A bias toward action and willingness to be hands-on with teams and client deliverables in fast-moving situations is highly valued. 

Agency experience is preferred, but individuals with experience in managing multiple communications programs simultaneously will be considered. Those interested should be prepared to provide writing samples and case studies of programs managed and implemented by the candidate. 

Candidates will be expected to operate in a client-facing capacity, including participation in regular meetings virtually and in person within the New York Metropolitan Area – primarily in New Jersey. There also will be involvement in client events, business development and marketing activities that include participation in forums outside of the home/office.

Experience in provider areas of Health Care – hospital, pharma, biotech, benefits plans – a strong plus. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

• Provide high-level account management and strategic counsel to clients across the spectrum of modern reputation management including positioning and messaging, stakeholder engagement, issues management, executive visibility, internal communications and employer brand. 
• Structure and lead day-to-day operational and financial performance of integrated account teams, generating fresh, smart ideas and leading programs.
• Develop and implement comprehensive stakeholder communications programs across earned and owned media, including the development of social/influencer strategies.
• Crafting thoughtful points of view and recommendations based on a broad understanding of client landscapes, business and industry environment and media relations.
• Anticipate potential risks and issues and help clients navigate challenges with deep institutional and category expertise
• Directly manage and mentor a collaborative team of smart and enthusiastic communications professionals; ensuring deliverables are met for clients and professional growth and advancement is achieved.
• Provide account oversight with a client-obsessed mindset and commitment to quality work that exceeds expectations
• Identify ways to engage, empower and inspire employee through an often-remote work environment, leading with empathy while ensuring excellence in the work. 
• Continually work with teams to drive client results that can meet or surpass client KPIs through the development of best-in-class communications campaigns
• Work as a partner to your clients, managing stakeholder engagement, elevating executives, building overall brand reputation, and developing fully integrated programs that deliver measurable results

What You Have to Have (Experience Requirements & Success Factors):

• At least 7-10 years of experience serving in a full-time role either in a public relations agency or the communications department of a company in a relevant industry and with similar requirements to simultaneously manage multiple programs.
• Strong corporate reputation and communications background and experience leading corporate programs for complex organizations.
• Deep understanding of the intersection of public relations, public policy and reputiton, with insights and expertise on the tri state area and New Jersey business