Public Relations & Crisis Communications Leader

Otis Elevator Co.

1d•$200,000 - $240,000•Remote

About The Position

The Public Relations & Crisis Communications Leader is a key leader within Otis’ External Communications function. This role is responsible for shaping and amplifying Otis’ global narrative through proactive public relations strategies, while also serving as a trusted advisor and leader during issues and crises that may impact the company’s reputation, operations, or stakeholder trust. This leader is a seasoned storyteller and strategic counselor who balances media engagement with disciplined crisis readiness and response. They develop and execute globally relevant communications strategies that engage external stakeholders - including media, influencers, and investors - while ensuring Otis is prepared to respond effectively, consistently, and responsibly in moments that matter most. Working closely with executive leadership, Operating Units, regional communications leaders, and cross‑functional partners, this role helps protect and enhance Otis’ reputation across all geographies where the company operates.

Requirements

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 12-15 years of communications experience, with deep experience in global public relations and crisis communications, strong executive presence, and the judgment required to lead in both high‑visibility moments and high‑pressure situations.
Experience in external communications, specifically public relations and crisis communications.
An inclusive, collaborative partner who is flexible and open minded yet decisive with a bias for action and results
A trusted advisor to executive leadership
An experienced people manager who supports the growth and development of other team members and can influence others not in their direct line of supervision
A relationship builder who values building and managing external relationships to help Otis achieve its business goals
Energized by the opportunities that arise from a company experiencing a period of significant change
Demonstrated ability to effectively influence and drive business outcomes
Expertise in traditional and new media, with a point of view on how best to leverage to deliver Otis’ messages to the right audiences at the right time
Experience partnering with and managing third-party agencies to achieve desired results
Strong business acumen
Values the diversity of a global audience and creates communications plans that resonate across key geographies
A problem solver who anticipates and proactively addresses issues or problems
Sound judgement and exceptional integrity
Adept at balancing the tactical and strategic nature of the role
Ability to multi-task; prioritizes and manages expectations effectively
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with exceptional attention to detail
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required

Nice To Haves

Has some financial communications knowledge and will further develop over time
Master’s preferred

Responsibilities

Public Relations & Media Develop and lead comprehensive, integrated global public relations strategies that advance Otis’ business priorities, technology innovations, and product and service messaging, while reinforcing the company’s values and purpose.
Help manage the global PR team and work closely with external agency partners to build and sustain strong relationships with business, trade, and financial media.
Drive proactive and reactive earned media strategies, including alignment with digital and social amplification, to strengthen Otis’ brand and visibility with key external audiences.
Develop media engagement strategies that amplify Otis’ story, highlight its leadership in the industry, and support key business moments, including quarterly earnings, Investor Day, and major corporate announcements.
Partner closely with Legal, Investor Relations, Marketing Communications, Social Media, and other Communications Centers of Excellence to ensure messaging is accurate, aligned, and appropriately sequenced across channels and audiences.
Oversee development of high‑quality external communications materials, including press releases, media statements, messaging frameworks, and executive talking points, in collaboration with internal teams, regional communicators, and agency partners.
Support media training and preparation for senior leaders and subject matter experts to ensure confidence and consistency in external interviews, speaking engagements, and high‑profile events.
Crisis Communications Serve as a senior crisis communications leader for Otis, providing strategic counsel to executive leadership during issues or crises that may impact the company’s reputation, safety, operations, financial performance, or stakeholder confidence.
Lead crisis communications preparedness and readiness across the enterprise, including development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of crisis communications standard work, playbooks, escalation protocols, and response frameworks.
Partner closely with Operating Unit and regional communications leaders to ensure global alignment and strong local execution during crises, including issues that originate in one geography but have enterprise‑wide implications.
Provide hands‑on leadership during active crises, helping assess risk, shape messaging, determine appropriate channels, and coordinate responses across Legal, EHS, HR, Investor Relations, and other key functions.
Ensure crisis responses are timely, accurate, empathetic, and consistent with Otis values, while balancing legal, regulatory, and reputational considerations.
Support scenario planning, tabletop exercises, and post‑incident reviews to strengthen organizational learning, improve future response, and continuously enhance crisis readiness.
Leadership and Collaboration Act as a trusted advisor to executive leadership, offering proactive, balanced counsel on external communications opportunities and risks.
Help develop a high‑performing team, fostering growth, collaboration, accountability, and inclusive leadership practices.
Collaborate with other Otis Communications Centers of Excellence—including Internal Communications, Social Impact, Marketing Communications & Brand, as well as country and regional communications leaders to ensure consistency and effectiveness across all external communications.
Demonstrate intellectual curiosity and innovation, exploring new platforms, formats, and influencer strategies to deliver Otis’ messages in impactful and relevant ways across diverse geographies.