Vice President External Communications

$167,580 - $223,440/Yr

Lumen Technologies - Montpelier, VT

Full-time - Executive

Montpelier, VT

Telecommunications

About the position

The Vice President - External Communication at Lumen is a pivotal role within the Corporate Communications Team, responsible for crafting and executing the external communications strategy during a significant company transformation. This position requires a skilled storyteller and media relations expert who will engage with key stakeholders to ensure effective messaging and media coverage. The role involves managing media relations, executive communications, and social media, while also preparing the CEO and other executives for media interactions. The VP will lead a strategic function that is crucial to executive management and will work closely with various teams to address issues and enhance the company's public image.

Responsibilities

• Lead Lumen's external communications function
• Develop and manage talent in support of a best-in-class Communications organization
• Develop and implement an external communications strategy in support of the company's business objectives, including media relations, executive communications, awards and rankings, and social media
• Engage with cross-functional stakeholders to develop messaging, create key themes, and ensure consistent internal and external messaging
• Direct proactive efforts to gain positive coverage of Lumen, its transformation and progress towards growth
• Develop and execute strategy regarding CEO and other senior executive media interviews, including proper executive briefing preparation prior to interviews
• Serve as a senior-level spokesperson for the business
• Ensure appropriate media training is available and provided to employees responsible for interacting with external media sources
• Manage crises and issues as required

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations or journalism and mass communications
• 5 - 10 years of supervisory experience
• 10 - 15 years experience in corporate communications positions for Fortune 500 company(-ies)
• Excellent judgement, interpersonal and relationship building skills
• Calm under pressure and solution focused when unforeseen circumstances arise
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Ability to develop strong and compelling stories about complex topics
• Excels in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with media training for executives
• Established relationships with financial and Tier 1 media
• Creative storytelling abilities

Benefits

• Flexible work environment
• Diversity and inclusion initiatives
• Employee support programs