Dir Communications

Consumers Energy•Jackson, MI

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Communications oversees a broad range of business and marketing communications related to external public relations, media relations, issues management, and crisis response, with the goal of driving positive consumer reputation results. The role advises senior leadership, helps advance the company’s narrative and reputation, and develops strategies and recommendations for communications best practices. The position is hybrid, with required onsite work Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at One Energy Plaza in Jackson, Michigan. The selected candidate must live within commuting distance or be willing to relocate; a relocation package is available to those who qualify. The position is not eligible for current or future immigration sponsorship, including H-1B or TN sponsorship, or CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT participation.

Requirements

At least 10 years of public relations experience, including supervisory and comprehensive marketing experience, with a bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field; or
At least 12 years of public relations experience, including supervisory and comprehensive marketing experience, with an associate degree; or
At least 14 years of public relations experience, including supervisory and comprehensive marketing experience, with a high school diploma or GED.
Leadership acumen.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Strong organizational skills and high attention to detail.
Ability to write in a journalistic style customary for corporate and external publications.
Ability to provide sound media relations advice to senior leadership.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with corporate management, employees, media representatives, and the broader community.
Ability to coordinate efforts across teams to present a cohesive and consistent message.
Must be within commuting distance of the Jackson, Michigan worksite or willing to relocate.
Must not require current or future immigration sponsorship for a work visa; CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT candidates are ineligible.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and adhere to the communications budget; develop and implement department policies that improve efficiency and support a positive corporate brand.
Track and monitor communications effectiveness to support continual process improvement.
Consult internal subject matter experts and external stakeholders to determine appropriate communications, and formulate positions and strategies for their execution.
Drive brand consistency across messaging, tone, creative assets, and storytelling.
Assist senior leaders with presentations, speeches, and other corporate messages.
Provide recommendations on graphics, clarity, distribution, and press releases to the Finance and Accounting Departments for the corporation’s annual report.
Partner with the People & Culture team to align internal and external communications and foster employee engagement and passion for the brand.
Create engaging, purposeful content in multiple formats and channels; develop and manage a communications and social media calendar and ensure timely execution.
Advise senior leadership and partner with the leadership team on communications strategies and best practices.
Develop a crisis response communications preparedness plan; manage critical business issues, mitigate risks, and provide guidance to protect the brand.
Develop a proactive communications strategy to build and maintain a positive corporate brand and advance key narratives with the media and other audiences.
Perform other non-essential duties as assigned or necessary.