Director, Strategic Planning

The application window is expected to close on: 07/23/2026

Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

Meet the Team

Global Communications is a team of more than 150 best-in-class communications professionals. Our mission is to protect and improve Cisco's reputation through innovative and thought-provoking storytelling, execution excellence and transparency. The PR team is responsible for leading Cisco's corporate and technology PR programs, as well as crafting and delivering clear and compelling narratives that grab the attention of media and influencers.

Your Impact

Cisco is seeking a dynamic Chief of Staff to partner with the VP of Public Relations in shaping the PR function for a company at the forefront of the AI revolution. This role requires a seasoned PR professional who combines strategic leadership with hands-on PR expertise. You will serve as a critical force in architecting and scaling the organization’s impact—driving operational excellence, strategic alignment, and world-class execution across the PR team. You will work cross-functionally with senior leaders across public relations and the broader Global Communications organization, ensuring the PR organization delivers a vision and measurable results. Additionally, this role will require adaptability to independently lead strategic PR initiatives, provide direct PR support as needed, and cover for team members to maintain continuity and momentum.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee PR Organizational Operations at Scale: Provide executive leadership and direction for all operational aspects of the global PR function, including strategic planning rhythms, executive meetings, internal communications, and high-level documentation—ensuring seamless alignment and execution across multiple teams and geographies.
• Integrated Planning PR: Shape PR's strategy and engagement within the integrated planning motion across quarterly business reviews (QBRs), major company moments, communications measurement, and cross-functional planning. Define how the PR organization partners with integrated planning by establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and operating rhythms that drive alignment and consistent execution.
• Adaptable PR IC Independently run strategic PR initiatives when needed, including media campaigns and executive communications, demonstrating deep PR functional expertise. Provide direct PR support and coverage for team members during absences to ensure continuity of operations and maintain high standards of execution.
• Champion Data-Driven Performance & Business Alignment: Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of robust KPIs and performance measurement frameworks. Ensure clear alignment between PR objectives and broader business priorities, delivering actionable insights and driving accountability at all organizational levels.
• Stewardship of Budget & Resource Optimization: In partnership with Strategy, Planning, and Operations, provide strategic oversight for budget planning, financial discipline, and vendor management. Ensure optimal allocation of resources to maximize impact and efficiency across the PR organization.
• Architect Operational Excellence: Develop and continually refine scalable, innovative processes that enhance agility, foster transparency, and accelerate collaboration across the PR organization and with cross-functional partners.
• Drive High-Impact, Cross-Company Initiatives: Lead the conception, mobilization, and executive execution of critical, cross-functional programs and strategic initiatives. Ensure these efforts are delivered with urgency, accountability, and measurable business outcomes, positioning Cisco at the forefront of communications excellence.

Minimum Qualifications

• 14+ years of progressive experience in public relations, communications operations, strategy, or large-scale program management within complex, global organizations.
• Demonstrated success advising and partnering directly with executive leadership teams in high-impact, dynamic environments.
• Exceptional executive communication skills, with a proven ability to develop and deliver compelling presentations, reports, and business cases to senior audiences.
• Operational understanding of budget oversight, resource management, HR functions, and the use of metrics to drive business decisions.
• Proven ability to independently lead PR initiatives and provide hands-on PR execution as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with enterprise technology, Fortune 500, or global communications organizations, with a track record of d