Head of Communications ZEISS Vision Care (m/f/x)

ZEISS Group; Aalen; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer of optical solutions based in Germany is seeking a Head of Communications for its Vision Care division. This role involves managing communication strategies, supporting corporate reputation, and leading crisis communications. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in corporate communications, superb interpersonal skills, and a strong understanding of media landscapes. Fluency in German and English is necessary. Join this influential team to shape perceptions and drive communication success.

Qualifications

• Proficient in developing communication strategies.
• Fluent in German and English, ideally native-level German.
• Experienced in internal communications for global and local audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Communications department and set priorities.
• Manage internal and external communication strategies.
• Build relationships with media and key stakeholders.
• Act as a spokesperson for crisis communications.

Skills

Corporate communications

Public Relations

Media relations

Interpersonal skills

Crisis communications

Education

Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Communications or related field

Job description

Head of Communications ZEISS Vision Care (m/f/x)

Join the ZEISS Group as Head of Communications for ZEISS Vision Care. As a leading manufacturer of ophthalmic lenses, we help people around the world achieve a clearer vision – sustainable and with focus on the future. Our products are as diverse as the career paths we offer, from tailored lenses to award‑winning measurement systems. Become part of our team and shape a future in which clear vision and professional success go hand in hand.

Your Role

The Communications department strengthens ZEISS Vision Care’s global reputation by engaging industry bodies, media, and key influencers, supporting corporate and brand equity, and managing communications crises when needed. It also contributes directly to Corporate Communications priorities. The Head of Communications (HoC) leads the department, sets priorities, manages budget and team structure, ensures OKR delivery, and drives team development. The HoC aligns closely with the CMO, CEO, and CHRO, oversees communication channels and plans, and shapes ZEISS Vision Care’s internal and external perception.

• Develop and oversee internal and external communication strategies aligned with VIS objectives, ensuring consistent messaging across all channels
• Manage cross‑channel communication planning and execution, including public relations efforts and maintaining up‑to‑date external communication platforms
• Build and maintain relationships with media, industry bodies, partners, and key stakeholders while monitoring industry media and creating press releases
• Support leadership communications, manage the internal communications plan, and advise on formats, timing, and target groups
• Act as a quotable spokesperson for media and industry, establish a spokesperson ecosystem, and lead crisis communications for ZEISS Vision Care
• Lead, develop, and future‑proof the communications team, driving OKRs and "Great Place to Work" goals while fostering collaboration and supporting employee development
• Manage the communications budget, ensure effective resource allocation, and evaluate communication activities to measure their impact

Your Profile

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field
• Profound experience in corporate communications, PR, media relations, or a comparable role, with a strong understanding of VIS‑ and ZEISS‑related context as a plus
• Strong understanding of media landscapes and core PR principles, with proven success in developing communication strategies and navigating diverse stakeholder interests
• Ability to design and deliver complex communication plans aligned with strategic objectives, including channel management and content creation/distribution
• Solid experience in internal communications for global and local audiences, such as town halls and intranets, with skills in crafting speeches and briefings for executives
• Confident in working with senior leadership, capable of sound decision‑making, executive‑level counsel, and translating complex topics into clear messages
• Excellent interpersonal skills, empathy, issue anticipation, tolerance for ambiguity, resilience, and performance under pressure, with cultural understanding of German work and regulatory environments
• Fluent written and spoken German and English (ideally native‑level German)

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application documents in English.

Contact: Hannah Beutler – ZEISS Recruiting Team