Public Relations Associate Director

EY•Hartford, DC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Public Relations Associate Director is responsible for helping shape and protect the organization's reputation through strategic communication initiatives. This role focuses on the development and execution of public relations strategies that align with the brand's purpose and business objectives, while fostering strong relationships with media, stakeholders, and the public. They will act as a key connector across Firm PR, Global PR, Marketing, Communications, Reputation Management, and Public Policy.

Requirements

Extensive experience (minimum 10+ years) leading public relations within a professional services environment with 7-10+ years at a Big Four, with expertise in both internal and external messaging.
Experience working in highly regulated industries, demonstrated through cross-functional relationships with Public Policy and Legal teams.
Strong leadership skills: The ability to lead and inspire teams effectively within a highly matrixed global organization.
Stakeholder management and influencing skills: The ability to convey ideas clearly and influence senior stakeholders.
Project management skills: The ability to think strategically and manage complex global projects to completion.
Commercial acumen: The ability to analyze market trends to guide strategic decisions.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills: The ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
Agility and adaptability: The ability to adapt quickly to change and manage ambiguity in a high-paced, dynamic environment.
Strategic vision: The ability to support the development and implementation of strategies, demonstrating creative problem-solving skills.
Cultural competence: The ability to embrace diversity and foster a global and inclusive workplace.

Responsibilities

Create and manage the Public Relations plan for one of EY’s largest business units.
Deploy media relations tactics to proactively influence brand perception of EY, including proactive campaigns, reactive media response and news intercepting.
Proactively engage and build relationships with media, journalists, and industry influencers to secure positive coverage.
Serve as a strategic advisor, support EY thought leaders by leading media training and press briefings.
Be strategic about interview prep meetings.
Strategically identify and/or vet media opportunities to ensure business alignment.
Develop comprehensive proactive PR plans and align key business goals and priorities.
Build trusted relationships with leadership to execute PR elements of priority programs.
Partner closely with business executives, Public Policy and Firm PR to manage sensitive, regulatory issues.
Lead scenario planning, message development, approvals and media engagement where appropriate.
Lead social media strategy for leaders and programs, including governance, risk management, content review, executive positioning and amplification through a Center of Excellence model.
Evaluate and report on PR outcomes and impact.
Continuously evaluate and make necessary adjustments and recommendations to further refine local planning, strategy and activation.
Own day-to-day relationships with PR, social and research agencies; manage scopes of work, budgets, invoices and performance; ensure all work adheres to EY standards and approval processes.