Director - Internal Communications

Kohler Co.•Kohler, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Internal Communications is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that engage, inform, and inspire employee across the organization. This role leads the planning and delivery of internal messaging, ensuring alignment with company values, business objectives, and cultural priorities. The Director partners closely with senior leadership, HR, and other business units to foster a transparent and inclusive workplace environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
10+ years of progressive experience in internal, associate, or corporate communications, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
Proven expertise in crisis/issues communications, including developing and executing crisis response plans and managing sensitive internal situations through change management best practices.
Strong background in shaping and protecting corporate reputation through strategic internal messaging and alignment with external communications.
Demonstrated experience overseeing corporate social media platforms, both internal and external, and leveraging them for reputation and engagement objectives.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex information for diverse audiences.
Ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
A deep understanding of digital internal communications tools, technology and measurement such as Social Chorus, Wrike, FirstUp, and Qualtrics.
Experience planning and leading Executive Management Team meetings or similar high-level leadership forums.
Demonstrated ability to influence and build relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders.
Experience managing and developing communications teams in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
High degree of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment under pressure.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

advanced degree preferred

Responsibilities

Design and implement internal communication plans that effectively reach all levels of the organization, leveraging multiple channels and platforms.
Oversee both internal and external corporate social media platforms, ensuring consistent and strategic messaging that supports corporate reputation and employee engagement goals.
Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on communication best practices, change management, and employee engagement initiatives.
Lead crisis and issues communications, providing strategic guidance and rapid response to support employees and protect the company’s reputation during challenging situations.
Develop messaging and resources for sensitive or urgent topics, ensuring employees receive timely, accurate, and consistent information.
Plan and direct Executive Management Team meetings, including agenda development, coordination, and facilitation to ensure clarity of purpose and outcomes.
Monitor and assess the effectiveness of internal communications, using data and employee feedback to drive continuous improvement.
Collaborate with external communications and Legal/Compliance to align internal messaging with broader corporate reputation strategies and effectively manage business and engagement risks.
Align with Human Resources leadership on messaging, content, and structure of Kohler’s Employee Value Proposition.
Oversee the creation of content for internal newsletters, intranet, executive communications, and employee events.
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing internal communications team as well as integrate the network of embedded internal communicators within each business and function.