Communications Specialist Senior - Media and Public Relations

$78,760 - $133,870/Yr

BAE Systems - Broomfield, CO

Full-time - Mid Level

Broomfield, CO

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems (SMS) is searching for an experienced, results-oriented Communications Specialist Senior to join their Marketing & Communication's (MarCom) Public Relations (PR) team. This position is part of the Strategic Operations (StratOps) organization, which consists of Washington DC Operations, Marketing & Communications and Strategic Development. As a key member of the MarCom team, the Communication Specialist's primary purpose is to support the day-to-day media relations efforts and strategic media/press planning for BAE Systems SMS. Working with the Director of Public Relations, the Communications Specialist will recommend, implement and coordinate SMS public relations strategies and tactics to build and enhance the company's story and drive earned media visibility.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Director of Public Relations to develop and implement the overall media and public relations strategy that aligns with the broader StratOps/MarCom strategy and protects the SMS brand.
• Create and write proactive media pitches, press releases, blogs, article features, talking points, media statements and opinion editorials.
• Conduct independent research and interview program team members to gain expertise on past, current and upcoming SMS programs.
• Vet and respond to media requests and inquiries.
• Help develop detailed materials and training to support and prepare company representatives/subject matter experts for interviews and interactions with the media.
• Develop and maintain good working relationships with the media and key stakeholders.
• Monitor SMS and competitor news daily to gather and maintain weekly metrics, as well as create and issue a weekly 'Heads Up' report.
• Assist with social media and earned media campaigns.
• Collaborate with team members to write website and social media content.
• Work with the employee communications team to ensure company milestones are effectively communicated within the business.
• Collaborate with MarCom and StratOps team on content, messaging, channels and media and public relations support for events/tradeshows/STEM activities.
• Communicate directly with SMS customers to help plan and execute external messaging campaigns.
• Work with stakeholders at SMS; BAE Systems, Inc.; and customer organizations to ensure all materials are properly reviewed and approved ahead of public release.
• Support the Director of Public Relations in partnering with the BAE Systems, Inc. team on announcements, press releases, reports, executive talking points, community engagement, and investor relations efforts.
• Serve as a MarCom liaison to a SMS business unit or function, developing a strategic communications plan for that business or function.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree plus 4 or more years related experience (e.g.: journalist, reporter).
• Exceptional business acumen, writing and communication skills, strategic perspective and collaborative spirit.
• The ability to identify sources for stories, distill important information from internal experts, and describe complex scientific topics in an understandable way.
• Experience in media relations, including media pitching, vetting and responding to media requests/inquiries and organizing media events and interviews.
• Solid relationships with media and key influencers.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and leverage new public relations channels.
• Experience using Cision/PR Newswire or other press release distribution service.
• Knowledge of media monitoring and analytics tools.
• Demonstrated ability to write in accordance with AP Style.
• Proven project management skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to track several projects and write assignments simultaneously.
• Experience and the ability to collaborate with individuals and teams at all levels.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with Microsoft SharePoint and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Familiarity with the Aerospace and Defense industry.
• Photography and video experience.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health savings accounts.
• 401(k) savings plan.
• Disability coverage.
• Life and accident insurance.
• Employee assistance program.
• Legal plan.
• Discounts on home, auto, and pet insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid military leave.
• Paid bereavement leave.