Communications Director

COUNTRY Financial•Bloomington, IL

3d•$174,400 - $239,800•Hybrid

About The Position

Leads the development and execution of integrated communications strategies that strengthen organizational reputation, advance business outcomes, and engage key stakeholders. Serves as a strategic advisor to senior leadership, ensuring consistent, compelling messaging across internal and external audiences while enhancing brand visibility and trust. Oversees corporate, executive, employee, agency and external communications, including media relations, thought leadership, issues management, and crisis communications. Cultivates relationships with media, industry partners, and key stakeholders, serving as a spokesperson and championing the organization's mission and vision. Leads enterprise change management and communications efforts that support business transformation, drive adoption of strategic initiatives, and deliver business outcomes. Builds and develops a high-performing team, leveraging data, insights, and innovative communications practices to deliver measurable business outcomes and stakeholder engagement.

Requirements

Proven ability to develop and execute enterprise communications and reputation strategies that align with business objectives and drive stakeholder engagement.
Strong leadership, executive influence, and change management expertise, with experience guiding organizational transformation and strategic initiatives.
Exceptional media relations, crisis communications, and executive communications skills, with the ability to serve as a trusted advisor and organizational spokesperson.
Typically requires 12+ years of relevant experience or a combination of related experience, education and training, including management experience.

Responsibilities

Oversees the coordination of intentional, comprehensive, and timely communication initiatives across various platforms to internal and external audiences.
Leads the communications team in crafting compelling narratives and content that resonate with diverse audiences across various internal and external platforms.
Collaborates with executive leadership to ensure alignment of communication efforts with organizational strategy, while fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration.
Develops and executes external communication and reputation management strategies to enhance and protect COUNTRY Financial’s image, credibility and community perception.
Leads crisis communication efforts, providing strategic guidance and support during sensitive situations.
Anticipates and responds to reputational threats to the company, in partnership with various internal stakeholders.
Monitors and analyzes communication metrics to assess the effectiveness of initiatives and make data-driven improvements.
Identifies CEO speaking opportunities, prepares CEO speeches/remarks for scheduled events and supports external speaking/media requests.
Manages the implementation and maintenance of disaster recovery plans and activities in assigned areas.
Maintains current contact information for all employees in applicable areas and communicates with non-recovery employees during a disaster.