External Communications Lead — Litigation

Cooley LLP; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 200,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Health savings account

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Flexible spending accounts

Life insurance

AD&D

Long-term care coverage

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Parental leave

Fertility benefits

Job summary

Cooley LLP is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications for Litigation to join our Communications team. The role leads proactive media relations and thought leadership to position Cooley’s litigation capabilities at the forefront of technology and business developments.

The role involves developing strategies with department leadership, mentoring staff, and shaping a high-impact external visibility program across industries.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Business or related field.
• 8+ years' direct experience in communications with 4+ years in management.
• Experience leading media relations, crisis communications and reputation management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of communications professionals (in-house and agency) for media relations.
• Develop communications strategies with firm leadership to support business priorities and markets.
• Oversee awards and recognitions programs for the department.
• Write and edit press materials, pitches, talking points and statements.
• Develop reporting, policies and resources for a coordinated external communications function.
• Shape stories around the department, clients and lawyers across industries driving the innovation economy.
• Lead external campaigns positioning litigation lawyers as authoritative voices through earned media and content.
• Serve as spokesperson and primary media contact.
• Advise leaders on media strategy and crisis communications; provide training.

Skills

Executive leadership

Written & verbal communication

Storytelling & writing

Team leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Crisis & issues management

Deadline-driven

Relationship building

Strategic media relations

Digital & content strategy

Education

Bachelor's degree in English/Journalism/Communications/Marketing/Business

Tools

Microsoft Office

iManage

Job description

Cooley LLP is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications for Litigation to join our Communications team. The role leads proactive media relations and thought leadership to position Cooley’s litigation capabilities at the forefront of technology and business developments.

The role involves developing strategies with department leadership, mentoring staff, and shaping a high-impact external visibility program across industries.