Director, Communications - CNBC

Company Description

VERSANT is a leading force in news, sports and entertainment - home to iconic and trusted brands that inspire, inform, and delight audiences. Our unique combination of content, technology and services enriches the cultural fabric, igniting passions, sparking conversations, and connecting people to what they love most.

As an independent, publicly traded company, VERSANT brings together powerhouse cable networks - including USA Network, CNBC, MS NOW (formerly MSNBC), Oxygen, E!, SYFY, and Golf Channel - with dynamic digital and direct-to-consumer brands such as Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine. Together, these businesses reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences across every screen and service.

VERSANT is an industry-changing media company fueled by innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit. With a strong foundation and a forward-looking vision, VERSANT empowers creativity, embraces change, and drives connection in an ever-evolving world.

Job Description

CNBC is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Communications to manage efforts in shaping and elevating the network’s brand reputation. This pivotal role will drive integrated communications strategies that align with CNBC’s editorial mission, advance its business goals and reinforce its corporate priorities. The ideal candidate is a seasoned communications professional with experience in news media, a sharp understanding of the business and financial landscape, and a proven ability to execute high-impact, communications programs in a fast-paced environment. This role requires exceptional editorial judgement, strong press relationships, and the ability to collaborate with stakeholders across all levels of the organization. The role will be based in New York City and Englewood Cliffs, NJ.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy that elevates CNBC’s brand, reinforces editorial leadership, and supports business objectives.
• Lead proactive media engagement, serving as a CNBC spokesperson and press liaison, while cultivating strong relationships with top tier outlets and emerging platforms.
• Oversee communications for daytime programming, identifying high-impact publicity opportunities and ensuring alignment with CNBC’s editorial direction.
• Drive innovation across CNBC’s social media presence, overseeing strategy and execution for PR channels to enhance visibility and audience engagement.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with editorial, marketing, sales and event teams to support integrated cross-functional initiatives and special projects.
• Partner with research teams to translate performance metrics, ratings and milestones into compelling communications narratives.
• Provide strategic counsel to CNBC leadership and journalists on messaging, reputation management, and navigating communications risks and opportunities
• Develop and maintain CNBC core messaging, supporting executives and talent with speech writing, internal communication and media preparation.
• Partner with Versant corporate communications and Investor Relations to ensure cohesive messaging and unified external communications
• Support crisis and issues management efforts, including the development of communications plans and stakeholder engagement.
• Monitor industry trends and market dynamics to identify timely opportunities for strategic publicity and thought leadership.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in corporate communications, ideally within a news organization or the media industry
• Excellent judgment and executive presence
• Proven ability to collaborate with and influence senior leaders and cross-functional stakeholders
• Strong track record of building brand awareness through proactive, results-driven communications strategies
• Recognized as a trusted advisor with the ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics

Desired Qualifications

• Ability to articulate and communicate strategic initiatives to senior executives and internal teams
• Clear, externally focused thinker with strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Skilled at simplifying complex concepts for multiple audiences Intellectual curiosity and passion for media, journalism, and entertainment
• Discretion and professionalism in handling confidential and sensitive information
• Experience in talent relations and new media platforms Inclusive leadership style with a history of developing and inspiring high-performing teams
• Fluency in digital communications and multi-channel storytelling

Additional Information:

• Hybrid: This position has been designated as hybrid, generally contributing from the Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey and New York