Senior Communications Manager

Cars Commerce

3d

About The Position

Cars Commerce is seeking a Senior Communications Manager who manages the company’s public relations efforts across corporate, B2C and B2B. This role is a fit for a strategic and creative thinker with a proactive mindset who can operate at an accelerated pace and execute cross functionally to tell connected stories about the company, its products and its people. The Senior Communications Manager will be responsible for building the brand awareness and reputation of Cars Commerce locally and nationally, and the execution of the company’s message platform. This individual will manage the development, delivery, and measurement of corporate communications and public relations activities. The candidate should have strong national media relationships in place at top-tier outlets to effectively guide the business narrative in the right media outlets at the right time, a solid understanding of how the media and PR landscapes are changing due to AI and social-first storytelling, excellent written and verbal communications skills, and a proven ability to consistently make sound judgments. This person will report to the VP of Communications.

Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior communications or public relations role, managing external communications efforts across corporate, B2C and B2B.
• Superlative written and verbal communications skills are essential.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning and execution of proactive corporate communications and media relations campaigns.
• Understanding of how AI is impacting the future of PR and Communications.
• Proven ability to consistently make sound judgments and manage complex, sensitive issues.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Deep understanding of the media landscape and proven ability to cultivate and maintain media relationships.
• Experience managing the day-to-day activities of a PR agency.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Ability to comfortably and authoritatively interact with senior and C-level executives
• Minimum 8-10 years leading public relations and external communications strategy.

Nice To Haves

• A mix of agency and in-house experience strongly preferred
• Experience with Cision, PR Newswire and other media tools

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute public relations plans and strategies that will enhance the brand awareness and reputation of Cars Commerce in the eyes of consumers, our customers, and our shareholders.
• Oversee all media relations efforts, including building and maintaining strong relationships with key national and local media contacts across corporate, B2C and B2B as well as social news influencers.
• Demonstrate creative ideation and thinking to develop compelling, high-impact stories and communications campaigns.
• Develop and refine the company's messaging platform, ensuring consistent and accurate communication.
• Identify and curate data-driven news stories from the company’s proprietary data, including monthly industry insights reporting.
• Initiate creative campaigns, programs and media events that keep Cars Commerce, its products, and its people top of mind with the media and our stakeholders.
• Write and edit all external communications materials, including press releases, talking points, pitches, and executive communication.
• Exhibit strong business acumen to understand and articulate the company's goals, performance, and industry landscape.
• Collaborate deeply and effectively across functions (e.g., Marketing, Legal, Product, Executive Team) to align communication strategies with business objectives.
• Engage and build trust with senior executives, providing sound counsel on communications strategies and issues management.
• Attend and manage the press strategy for core auto shows and relevant media events throughout the year (3-5 events per year).
• Develop strategic opportunities for speaking and other engagements for company leaders at conferences and events.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of PR and communications efforts.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Healthcare Plans
• New Hire Stipend for Home Office Set-Up
• Generous PTO
• Refuel - a service based recognition program where employees receive additional paid time away to learn grow and reset
• Paid Holidays, Floating Holiday, Volunteer Day, Recharge Day

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level