Senior Director, Strategic Communications

Justworks•New York, NY

49d•Hybrid

About The Position

As the Senior Director of Communications you will lead a cross-functional team in managing and shaping the flow of communication and information between the company and the public. You are a seasoned, strategic communications expert with oversight across corporate communications, public relations, crisis communications, thought leadership, social media, and influencer marketing. Additionally, you lead leadership and large change management communications, ensuring alignment between company strategy, executive narratives, and communication to media, investors, and other external stakeholders. You collaborate closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to drive an integrated communications strategy that supports Justworks' mission, goals, and evolving business priorities. You bring a values-driven approach to your work, fostering alignment, transparency, and trust across all levels of the organization. Outcome: An integrated, proactive, and values-based approach to communications, with clear alignment between business strategy, leadership priorities, and public engagement. The right message reaches the right audience-customers, employees, investors, media, and more-at the right time. Leadership and key stakeholders are empowered with opportunities, tools, and guidance to effectively tell the Justworks story in ways that build trust, clarity, and momentum.

Requirements

Minimum of 12 years of experience in strategic communications, corporate communications, public relations, or related fields, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
Proven expertise in leading cross-functional teams and managing external PR, social media, influencer marketing, and thought leadership strategies in matrixed environments.
Demonstrated ability to lead executive-level communications, including board and leadership messaging.
Strong media and influencer relationships, with a track record of securing impactful placements and partnerships.
Exceptional storytelling skills, stitching together themes and anecdotes into compelling narratives.
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, with a passion for storytelling and alignment.
Experience managing crisis communications and navigating complex organizational dynamics.
Familiarity with data-driven reporting tools and platforms to measure communications impact.
Passion for impactful storytelling, known for cutting edge modern media and AI curiosity.

Nice To Haves

Passion for supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship is a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage a cross-functional communications team, encompassing PR, corporate communications, social media, influencer marketing, and thought leadership, and partnering with teams across internal communications, employer brand, social impact, government affairs, and customer comms.
Partner with executive leadership to align communications strategy with broader business goals, strategic narrative, and brand evolution.
Drive leadership communications, including messaging frameworks, stakeholder maps, executive narratives, and board-level storytelling, ensuring cut-through storytelling in alignment with company strategy and priorities.
Develop and execute a proactive PR and media strategy that supports Justworks' positioning, thought leadership, and market goals.
Manage and grow relationships with national and local media outlets, influencers, and external PR partners to secure impactful coverage.
Develop and oversee the execution of an integrated social media strategy that aligns with Justworks' communications goals and brand strategy.
Collaborate with the Social Media Manager to create engaging, data-driven content and establish Justworks' presence across key platforms.
Leverage social media to amplify key messages, thought leadership, and advocacy efforts.
Develop social media response strategy across social selling and social support
Oversee the execution of a robust influencer marketing program, integrating influencer activations into PR, social media, and broader marketing campaigns.
Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive thought leadership program to position Justworks as a trusted voice in its industry.
Collaborate with cross-functional partners in public policy and advocacy initiatives to position Justworks as a thought leader in areas critical to customers.
Drive visibility for Justworks at key industry events and conferences, ensuring alignment with strategic messaging pillars.
Identify and craft opportunities for executives and team members to share insights and expertise through op-eds, speaking engagements, panels, and other public forums.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to amplify customer success stories, industry research, and proprietary data that highlight Justworks' unique value.
Lead the development and execution of proactive and reactive crisis communications strategies that safeguard Justworks' reputation while living its values.
Establish clear metrics for success and oversee reporting on PR, social media, thought leadership, and advocacy initiatives.