Communications Manager

PRIMARY PURPOSE

CNA is hiring for the role of Communications Manager. This position is responsible for the management of the communications team and support of division leadership in executing external relations strategies targeting media, sponsors, clients and thought leaders. The Communications Manager will execute programs that utilize media relations, social media, and website development. They will serve as the primary liaison to the CNA research divisions related to delivery of communications products and deliverables. They will ensure professional and on-brand communications deliverables, and be responsible for collaboration across CNA in the adoption of emerging technology such as AI, LLM, and other technology in the communications sphere.

CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our flexible and engaging work environment encourages iterative and creative collaboration at every stage of the problem solving process. Our employees are committed to helping clients develop effective solutions to better manage their programs through scientific, data-driven approaches. We are looking for creative and innovative individuals to help carry out our mission.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND / OR DUTIES

1. Execution of Communications and Campaigns and Products. Responsible for the development of communications products to support the external priorities of the CEO, and the Executive Vice Presidents. Supports the division leadership in the development of overarching strategy and annual campaigns.
2. Media Relations. Serves as a primary CNA contact for the media, ensuring communications staff is building relationships with the media, and handling proactive outreach to reporters and responding to calls from reporters. Develops and implements outreach campaigns directed at reporters who cover the issues that are associated with CNA research.
3. Internal Communication. Responsible for accurate and clear communications internally through Cruiser, weekly dissemination of Currents newsletter, and other ad hoc communications at the direction of the Senior Team.
4. Leadership Profiles. Helps build thought leadership profiles for select analysts and the executive team.
5. Manages CNA's social media platforms and website. Oversees the development of website content related to promoting the work of CNA, as well as material posted on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Identifies other emerging platforms and opportunities for digital communications. Coordinates graphic designers, writers, editors, video production to build robust content for the website. Approves all social media posts prior to publication. Serves as liaison to social media users at CNA and point of contact for employees who wish to post on the corporate platforms.
6. AI and Emerging Technologies for Communications. Leads the adoption of AI and other emerging technologies-in the communications arena-to serve as a multiplier for CNA outreach and engagement. This includes close collaboration with the CIO organization and Information Technology staff, as well as the research staff in the adoption and inculcation of these technologies.
7. Classified Communications Platforms. Works on classified communications platforms to promote visibility to key target audiences for classified CNA research papers. Coordinates with analysts on appropriate outreach strategies for their classified research projects.
8. Material Development. Reviews and supports the writing of articles, publications, presentations and other materials, communicating a clear and effective message to key stakeholders. Successfully translates complex issues to language that is understandable and interesting for public audiences.
9. Monitoring and Evaluation. Monitors, tracks and measures effectiveness of communication activities; recommends new strategies to division leadership as needed to improve corporate visibility and support the brand.
10. Media Training. Supports presentation and media training sessions, as appropriate, serving as a lead instructor. These trainings include how to conduct effective sponsor briefings, media interviews, message development and delivery, and professional conference presentations.
11. Other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Education: Bachelor's degree in communications, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
2. Experience: Minimum of 8 years' experience in corporate communications, journalism or public relations. Experience managing communications teams and/or staff. Experience working in corporate or government Communications or Public Affairs a plus.
3. Skills:
   
   
   
   • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact and collaborate with all levels of management, including executives;
   • Excellent written and oral communications skills; editing skills;
   • Knowledge of web content architecture and applications, and of social media practices;
   • Knowledge of developing technologies in communications such as AI and machine learning applications;
   • Ability to act with limited direction, ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment;
   • Excellent eye for detail, organized, thorough with excellent customer;
   • Ability to work under pressure and address emergent issues.
   
   
   
   
4. Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
5. Hybrid Work Eligibility: This position is eligible for telecommuting or hybrid work arrangements at the discretion of the Supervisor. Employees may be required to work at CNA headquarters or other work locations resulting in changes to the scheduled telecommuting or hybrid work arrangements.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.