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

• 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 division leadership in the development of overarching strategy and annual campaigns.
• Media Relations: Serves as a primary CNA contact for the media, ensuring communications staff build relationships with reporters and handle proactive outreach and responses. Develops and implements outreach campaigns directed at reporters who cover CNA research-related issues.
• Internal Communication: Responsible for accurate and clear internal communications through Cruiser, weekly dissemination of the Currents newsletter, and other ad hoc communications as directed by the Senior Team.
• Leadership Profiles: Helps build thought leadership profiles for select analysts and the executive team.
• Social Media and Website Management: Manages CNA’s social media platforms and website. Oversees development of website content promoting CNA’s work and materials posted on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Identifies emerging platforms and opportunities for digital communications. Coordinates designers, writers, editors, and video production to build robust website content. Approves all social media posts prior to publication. Serves as liaison for social media users and as the point of contact for employees who wish to post on corporate platforms.
• AI and Emerging Technologies for Communications: Leads adoption of AI and other emerging technologies in communications to enhance CNA outreach and engagement. Collaborates with the CIO organization, IT staff, and research staff on the integration of these technologies.
• Classified Communications Platforms: Works on classified communications platforms to promote visibility of classified CNA research papers. Coordinates with analysts on appropriate outreach strategies for classified projects.
• Material Development: Reviews and supports the writing of articles, publications, presentations, and other materials. Communicates clear, effective messages to key stakeholders, translating complex issues into understandable and engaging content for public audiences.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitors, tracks, and measures the effectiveness of communication activities. Recommends new strategies to division leadership to improve corporate visibility and brand support.
• Media Training: Supports presentation and media training sessions as appropriate, serving as a lead instructor. Trainings include sponsor briefings, media interviews, message development and delivery, and professional conference presentations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Experience: Minimum of 8 years’ experience in corporate communications, journalism, or public relations. Experience managing communications teams and/or staff. Experience in corporate or government Communications or Public Affairs is a plus.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with all levels of management, including executives.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills; strong editing skills.
• Knowledge of web content architecture, applications, and social media practices.
• Familiarity with developing technologies in communications such as AI and machine learning applications.
• Ability to act with limited direction and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent attention to detail, organization, and customer service.
• Ability to work under pressure and address emergent issues.

Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

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 locations as needed.

Required Documents: Please include a resume and cover letter with your application.

Benefits

CNA offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, and a 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching. We also provide generous paid time off programs to promote a healthy work-life balance. Eligibility for these benefits varies based on employment classification.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

CNA is committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. CNA complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in every location where it operates.

These protections apply to all aspects of employment, including recruiting, hiring, promotion, termination, compensation, benefits, and training.

To be considered for hire, all applicants are subject to a background investigation. For positions requiring access to classified information, U.S. citizenship is required. Continued employment eligibility depends on the ability to obtain and maintain an active security clearance.

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