Communications Specialist

Debevoise-&-Plimpton-LL; New York (NY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is seeking a Communications Specialist to join the Global Communications team in New York. The role reports to the Senior Communications Manager and collaborates with firm leadership to shape media outreach, internal messaging and executive communications.

You will craft thoughtful content, identify opportunities, and drive communications for designated practice areas while coordinating with the external PR agency and marketing colleagues.

Qualifications

• Three years plus in strategic communications, media relations or PR.
• Ability to translate complex legal or business topics into clear content.
• Strong writing, editing and storytelling across formats.
• Comfort with digital platforms and social channels for branding.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute communications strategies for practice areas and firm initiatives.
• Draft media pitches, press releases, web content and social posts.
• Coordinate with partners, PM and external agencies to seize media opportunities.
• Support crisis-related communications and sensitive firm-wide announcements.

Skills

Strategic communications

Media relations

Writing & editing

Crisis communications

Social media

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Communications Specialist

MARKETING Department

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a premier international law firm with market-leading practices, a global perspective and strong New York roots. Debevoise clients engage our lawyers for the high degree of quality, strategic focus and creativity we bring to our legal advice. Our talented administrative and legal support staff bring the same commitment to their work, ensuring the firm delivers the highest level of service and a distinctive client experience. We attract and retain highly skilled and dedicated staff by providing a work environment that is diverse, collaborative, respectful and collegial, and where professional growth is encouraged and nurtured.

The firm is seeking a full-time Communications Specialist to join its Global Communications team, reporting to the Senior Communications Manager and working closely with the Director of Global Communications, this individual will manage communications for designated practice areas and strategic firm initiatives, serving as a trusted adviser to partners while collaborating closely with firm leadership, Practice Management, Marketing and the firm’s external PR agency.

This is an opportunity to join a tight knit, high performance team known for strategic insight, collaboration and strong execution. The Communications Specialist will develop and execute media relations, internal communications, digital content, social media and awards initiatives, while supporting partners and practice groups across the firm.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Help develop and execute communications strategies across a range of practices and strategic firm priorities, including thought leadership, partner prominence, promotion of client work and firm achievements, and the firm’s profile in areas such as AI and emerging legal technologies.
• Draft and edit communications materials, including media pitches, press releases, Web content, social media posts, award submissions, talking points and internal communications.
• Research practices, industries, legal matters and market developments to identify communications opportunities and support the development of informed, timely content.
• Work collaboratively with partners, Practice Management and Marketing colleagues, the firm’s external PR agency and other stakeholders to support communications strategies, media opportunities and related initiatives.
• Support communications related to sensitive issues, crisis management and firmwide initiatives under the direction of senior members of the Global Communications team.

Requirements:

• At least 3 years of experience in strategic communications, media relations or public relations.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or relevant graduate-level study preferred.
• Demonstrated media relations experience, including developing pitches, supporting journalist outreach, securing placements and supporting senior leaders in external engagements.
• Outstanding writing and editing skills, with the ability to translate complex legal, business and technology concepts into clear, precise and compelling content across multiple formats.
• Sound judgment and discretion, with the ability to balance competing priorities and support sensitive or crisis-related communications under pressure.
• Comfortable working across digital platforms and social media channels, with an understanding of their role in strategic communications and brand positioning.
• Collaborative and service-oriented, with strong interpersonal skills and the confidence and poise to interact directly with partners, firm leaders and other senior stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently on assigned projects while seeking guidance and incorporating feedback when appropriate.
• Foundational understanding of the business and financial landscape, including familiarity with mergers and acquisitions, private equity, capital markets, disputes and related matters, or the ability to develop that knowledge quickly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Candidates from a wide range of sectors are encouraged to apply — we prioritize exceptional thinking and writing ability over any particular industry background.
• Interest in developments across the legal industry, including generative artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, with the curiosity to stay current and communicate about them effectively.

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other legally protected category in accordance with U.S. law.