Associate Director of External Communications (Litigation)

Cooley LLP•Washington, DC

1d•$200,000 - $240,000

About The Position

Cooley is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications for Litigation to join the Communications team. Working closely with the Director of Communications, firm leadership, the broader communications team and other business functions, the Associate Director of External Communications - Litigation will help shape and execute strategic external communications programs that enhance, differentiate and protect the department’s and Cooley’s reputation. The role will lead proactive media relations and reputation-building efforts across the department, helping to bring Cooley’s perspective and client work to the forefront of the business, technology and legal developments shaping the innovation economy.

Requirements

After orientation at Cooley LLP, exhibit proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, iManage and other firm applications
Ability to work extended and/or weekend hours, as required
Ability to travel, as required
Minimum 8 years’ direct experience (e.g., communications, public relations experience with B2B clients and at a management level) with 4+ years’ management experience (some at the senior level preferred)
Bachelor’s degree preferably in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Business or related field
Experience operating at a level beyond current role expectations, providing strategic leadership, influencing key decisions, and guiding team direction
Experience leading people and teams, including hiring, employee development, work assignment, performance management, coaching and corrective counseling
Strong working knowledge of and contacts within National print, broadcast and online media. Strong handle on financial markets and business concepts and related subject matter
Experience with crisis and issues management communications
Understanding of digital marketing, social media strategies, and content creation best practices
Strong executive presence and ability to build credibility and trust with partners on strategy and execution of communications objectives
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Exceptional writing skills and strong attention to detail
Ability to lead others in developing and executing on initiatives and large-scale projects
Ability to motivate others and build effective and cooperative work teams
Strong interpersonal skills with ability to negotiate challenging situations and grasp internal politics
Judicious, fast-thinking and able to excel in a fast-paced environment
Ability to consistently meet deadlines, including self-set and multi-tasked
Ability to develop professional relationships both internally (with department members, lawyers and firm business professionals) and externally (with industry/regional associations, etc.)
Ability to simplify complex legal and business information into clear, accessible communication

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a law firm, professional services, PR agency environment, and/or in government service/political realms
10+ years applicable experience strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Lead and manage a team of in-house and agency communications professionals responsible for building and maintaining relationships with influential media
Work closely with the Department Chair and litigation practice leadership to develop communications strategies that support business priorities, strengthen Cooley’s position in key markets and highlight the distinctive capabilities of the firm, its practices and lawyers
Oversee the strategic direction of the awards and recognitions program for the department, including prioritization, processes and the development of key submissions
Write and edit press releases, media pitches, talking points, statements and other firm communications
Develop and maintain reporting, policies, protocols and resources that support a coordinated and effective external communications function
Identify and shape compelling stories around the department, its clients and its lawyers, particularly across the industries and issues driving the innovation economy
Lead proactive external communications campaigns that position Cooley litigation lawyers as authoritative voices through earned media, social media, thought leadership and content promotion
Serve as a spokesperson and primary point of contact for media inquiries
Advise firm leaders and lawyers on media strategy, reputation management and sensitive or high-profile matters
Provide crisis communications counsel, media training and interview preparation
Develop messaging, media strategies, anticipated questions and responses, and other communications materials
Serve as mentor to direct reports
Provide day-to-day supervision of direct reports, ensure compliance with assigned work hours and monitor for compliance with all firm and department policies
Support business professional development and continued educational opportunities
In collaboration with immediate supervisor and HR, participate in hiring, performance appraisals, counseling, termination and other employee lifecycle events
Perform other duties as assigned or required