Principal External Communications Manager

C.H. Robinson•Eden Prairie, MN

4d•$98,900 - $167,100•Hybrid

About The Position

C.H. Robinson is transforming how the market understands global logistics, technology, and the future of AI-enabled supply chains. As a Principal External Communications Manager, you will help tell the story of how our people, technology, agentic supply chains, and our Lean operating model are shaping the future of global commerce. This role is ideal for a strategic storyteller who is energized by AI, technology, media relations, global trade/commerce, executive communications, and translating complex ideas into compelling narratives for customers, investors, carriers, employees, and the market. You’ll play a key role in elevating C.H. Robinson’s position as a leader in Lean AI supply chains while partnering closely with executive and technical leaders and cross-functional teams to bring high-impact stories to life. At C.H. Robinson, we’re firm believers in the power of in-person collaboration to fuel innovation and propel success. In this role, you will engage with peers on-site three days a week, igniting creativity and driving impactful results, also have the flexibility to work remotely two days a week.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
Minimum 6 years of communications experience and proven track record of successfully communicating to large audiences, including press, to inspire change, enhance engagement and mitigate risk
Strong writing, storytelling and sharp, error-free editing skills
Ability to travel up to 10% (domestic and international)

Nice To Haves

Experience in technology communications, technology or product marketing and/or public relations, AI story telling
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume, results-driven environment
Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong prioritization and time management skills
Effective collaborator across functions, levels, and teams
Trusted strategic advisor and influencer who builds strong, cross-functional relationships
Promotes teamwork and contributes to a positive, collaborative culture
Stays current on industry trends and proactively drives innovation and continuous improvement
Leads and influences change effectively across a large, matrixed organization
Values a diverse and inclusive work environment

Responsibilities

Shape and elevate C.H. Robinson’s external narrative as the company evolves into a Lean AI-enabled technology platform
Develop and execute integrated communications strategies that support business priorities, strengthen brand visibility, and engage key external audiences
Partner with senior leaders, technical stakeholders, and business teams to translate complex topics into clear, compelling stories for media, customers, investors, carriers, employees, and industry audiences
Create high-impact content across PR, media relations, social media, blogs, executive messaging, speeches, thought leadership, events, and enterprise communications
Lead storytelling around technology, AI, agentic supply chains, global commerce, and business transformation in a way that is relevant, credible, and market-facing
Build and manage media, influencer, and stakeholder relationships that generate awareness, strengthen reputation, and support commercial goals
Use audience insights, analytics, and performance metrics to refine messaging, improve engagement, and inform future communication strategies
Lead proactive and reactive communications, including media outreach, executive visibility opportunities, brand-risk monitoring, and crisis response
Manage complex, cross-functional, and global communications projects with strong judgment, polish, and executive presence
Bring a strategic communications lens to major business initiatives, helping leaders uncover stories, sharpen messages, and drive meaningful audience action

Benefits

Three medical plans which include Prescription drug coverage
Enhanced Fertility benefits
Flexible Spending Accounts
Health Savings Account (including employer contribution)
Dental and Vision
Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Paid observed holidays
2 paid floating holidays for U.S. hourly employees
Flexible Time Off (FTO) offered to U.S. salaried employees — no accruals and no caps.
Paid Time Off (PTO) offered to all other employees in the U.S. and Canada
Paid parental leave
Paid time off to volunteer in your community
Charitable Giving Match Program
401(k) with 6% company matching
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Broad range of career development, networking, and team-building opportunities