Communications Manager

About the position

The Manager, External Communications will be responsible for developing and executing PR strategies and programs for Constellation Brands' Beer Division portfolio of brands including the Corona and Modelo families, Pacifico, Victoria and Emerging Brands. This role will also assist in managing the company's reputation with internal / external stakeholders and help drive the company's business objectives. In addition, there will be a focus on developing and executing content for communications to various external and internal audiences that connect and support the broader communications team initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic guidance to internal and external partners by building on brand priorities to develop and execute effective and impactful earned programming to elevate our portfolio
• Develop excellent working relationships with cross-functional teams and PODs across brand marketing and brand activation, retail connections, licensing & promotion, lifestyle & experiential, media & digital marketing, as well as internal operations- insights, legal, and procurement
• Act as a strategic partner with cross-functional and agency partners to ensure smooth transfer of knowledge and understanding to deliver on strategic programming goals
• Ensure budget and program efforts prioritize core business drivers and brand expansions
• Manage multiple programs, often simultaneously, with a strong ability to prioritize and delegate
• Manage agency relationships and teams to deliver effective programs and perspective
• Deliver results on time and on budget and help drive the company's success
• Participate in regular meetings with team, agency partners, and cross-functionals
• Participate in agency RFPs or procurement exercises, as needed
• Fulfill and/or coordinate incoming media requests for statements, interviews, assets, product samples, etc., utilizing the help of agencies where appropriate
• Engage in effective media relations by identifying opportunities to garner positive media coverage and working with agencies to plan, pitch and target media outlets / reporters; preparing company spokespeople for media interviews; and developing press releases, talking points and media lists as needed
• Assist in actively managing company and brand reputation, coordinating audits and engaging key stakeholders to assess and act on sensitive situations
• Provide consistent strategic perspective and guidance for both reputational and PR opportunities
• Act as a team player by building strong working relationships built on trust with internal business partners and Communications teammates across geographies
• Interact effectively with leaders at all levels of the organization and serve as a brand ambassador for both the communications team and the company
• Participate in personal and professional training and education opportunities, as they arise
• Ensure consistency and alignment with Constellation's overall communications program and strategic direction
• Collaborate with internal communications counterparts, providing content and ensuring consistent messaging among initiatives to various stakeholders aligned with the company's business strategy

Requirements

• BS/BA degree in communications, public relations, or journalism
• Master's degree in communications, public relations a plus
• Proven experience managing / maximizing effectiveness of external agencies
• Superior writing, editing, oral and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong leadership skills, executive presence, and ability to influence without authority
• Highly resourceful and organized with an eye for detail
• Excellent time management, written and oral communication skills
• Enthusiasm and desire to position our brands at the forefront of cultural relevance
• Strong motivation and ambition to support the Communications team and their goals to drive the business
• Ability to prioritize, manage and deliver multiple immediate tasks and long-term projects on deadline
• Ability to work effectively and flexibly in a rapidly changing, fast-paced and challenging professional environment
• Positive attitude and self-starter with the ability to forge relationships and add value to the team on integrated team projects and as individual contributor
• Ability to work harmoniously with co-workers and perform duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with the company's value of exhibiting the highest quality standards in all endeavors

Benefits

• Paid time off
• Medical/dental/vision insurance
• 401(k)