Executive Director of Communications Job Description

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The Executive Director of Communications is a top-tier executive leadership role, responsible for defining, overseeing, and executing the entire communications strategy for an organisation, encompassing corporate communications, public relations, internal communications, and potentially government relations. They are a key advisor to the CEO and Board, shaping and protecting the company's reputation and strategic narrative on a global scale. 

Day to day, an Executive Director of Communications leads a large, diverse communications team, manages high-stakes media relations, develops crisis communication protocols, crafts executive messaging, and ensures all communication efforts support the company's strategic goals and values. They are a highly experienced and strategic communicator, adept at navigating complex reputational challenges and opportunities.

• Develop and lead the overarching communications strategy for the entire organisation, aligning with business objectives and values. 
• Lead, mentor, and manage a large, high-performing communications department (including PR, internal comms, social media, content, executive comms). 
• Responsible for global media relations, proactively shaping narratives and managing reactive inquiries. 
• Develop and implement robust crisis communication strategies, serving as a primary spokesperson or advisor to the CEO/Board during critical events. 
• Oversee corporate social responsibility (CSR) communications and stakeholder engagement initiatives. 
• Craft compelling executive communications, including speeches, presentations, and thought leadership pieces for senior leaders. 
• Ensure consistent and impactful internal communications to foster employee engagement and cultural alignment. 
• Manage the communications budget and ensure efficient resource allocation. 
• Advise the CEO and executive leadership team on all communication matters, including reputational risk and opportunity. 
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media, industry influencers, and external partners. 
• Monitor global media landscape, industry trends, and public sentiment, providing strategic insights.

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field; Master's degree or MBA highly preferred. 
• Extensive executive-level experience (12-15+ years) in senior communications leadership roles, with significant time as an Executive Director of Communications or VP of Communications for a large, complex organisation. 
• Proven track record of successfully managing high-profile corporate communications, media relations, and crisis management. 
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including strategic storytelling, public speaking, and executive messaging. 
• Superior leadership, team building, and talent development capabilities. 
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, especially under pressure. 
• Deep understanding of reputation management, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement. 
• Excellent negotiation, influencing, and relationship-building skills at the highest levels. 
• Commercially astute with a strong understanding of business strategy.