Director - Internal Communications

Sterling Kohler; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 163,950 - 260,350; Full time

Job summary

Sterling Kohler is seeking a Director of Internal Communications based in Kohler, Wisconsin. This role involves developing and executing comprehensive internal communication strategies, overseeing crisis communications, and mentoring internal communication teams. The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree in Communications, significant experience in corporate communications, and strong leadership capabilities. A salary range of $163,950 - $260,350 is offered, along with potential performance bonuses.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in corporate communications with 5+ years in leadership.
• Proven track record in crisis management and internal communications.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute communication strategies to engage employees.
• Oversee internal and external corporate social media platforms.
• Lead crisis communications and employee engagement initiatives.

Skills

Crisis communications

Strategic messaging

Team leadership

Communication planning

Digital communications tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications or related field

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Social Chorus

Wrike

FirstUp

Qualtrics

Job description

Director – Internal Communications

Work Mode: Onsite

Location: Onsite – Kohler, WI

The Director of Internal Communications is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that engage, inform, and inspire employees across the organization. This role leads the planning and delivery of internal messaging, ensuring alignment with company values, business objectives, and cultural priorities. The Director partners closely with senior leadership, HR, and other business units to foster a transparent and inclusive workplace environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement internal communication plans that effectively reach all levels of the organization, leveraging multiple channels and platforms.
• Oversee both internal and external corporate social media platforms, ensuring consistent and strategic messaging that supports corporate reputation and employee engagement goals.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on communication best practices, change management, and employee engagement initiatives.
• Lead crisis and issues communications, providing strategic guidance and rapid response to support employees and protect the company’s reputation during challenging situations.
• Develop messaging and resources for sensitive or urgent topics, ensuring employees receive timely, accurate, and consistent information.
• Plan and direct Executive Management Team meetings, including agenda development, coordination, and facilitation to ensure clarity of purpose and outcomes.
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of internal communications, using data and employee feedback to drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with external communications and Legal/Compliance to align internal messaging with broader corporate reputation strategies and effectively manage business and engagement risks.
• Align with Human Resources leadership on messaging, content, and structure of Kohler’s Employee Value Proposition.
• Oversee the creation of content for internal newsletters, intranet, executive communications, and employee events.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing internal communications team as well as integrate the network of embedded internal communicators within each business and function.

Skills / Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in internal, associate, or corporate communications, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven expertise in crisis/issues communications, including developing and executing crisis response plans and managing sensitive internal situations through change management best practices.
• Strong background in shaping and protecting corporate reputation through strategic internal messaging and alignment with external communications.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing corporate social media platforms, both internal and external, and leveraging them for reputation and engagement objectives.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex information for diverse audiences.
• Ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
• A deep understanding of digital internal communications tools, technology and measurement such as Social Chorus, Wrike, FirstUp, and Qualtrics.
• Experience planning and leading Executive Management Team meetings or similar high‑level leadership forums.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and build relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders.
• Experience managing and developing communications teams in fast‑paced, dynamic environments.
• High degree of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment under pressure.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

The salary range for this position is $163,950 - $260,350. The specific salary offered may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate’s experience, education, and work location. This position is also eligible for a performance bonus or variable incentive compensation.

It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact [e-mail]. Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.