PR Lead, Brand Partnerships & Sponsorships

Cisco Systems, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 135,000 - 171,000; Full time

Job summary

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a PR Manager for Brand and Sponsorships to architect and execute a comprehensive PR strategy for our global brand partnerships.

You will lead as the primary communications partner for sports, cultural, and entertainment sponsorships, translating brand priorities into compelling narratives that amplify Cisco's value proposition and market positioning. You will collaborate with senior leaders, marketing, and agencies to drive high-impact campaigns, measure outcomes,

Qualifications

• 8-10+ years of experience in public relations, communications, or brand management.
• Proven track record of managing high‑profile brand partnerships, sponsorships, or large‑scale integrated marketing/PR programs.
• Strong strategic counsel skills; ability to advise senior leaders on reputation management and stakeholder engagement.
• Deep expertise in crafting compelling narratives for diverse audiences, with a portfolio of blogs, press releases, and thought leadership content.
• Experience managing complex agency relationships and project timelines with a focus on measurable outcomes.
• Ability to work cross‑functional in a matrixed environment, navigating competing stakeholder priorities to drive cohesive, high‑impact outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Strategic storytelling & discovery: Develop and own communication strategies for Cisco's key brand and sponsorship portfolio.
• Cross-functional collaboration & stakeholder management: Serve as a primary communications partner to the global Brand and Sponsorship teams.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner across marketing and communications to ensure brand consistency and drive integrated campaigns.
• Media relations: Build relationships with top-tier media and pitch stories to secure high-impact coverage.
• Campaign management: Lead end-to-end campaign execution for brand-led initiatives and sponsorships.
• Strategic counsel: Advise product marketing and leadership on market trends and reputational risk.

Skills

Brand storytelling

Strategic counsel

Media relations

Cross-functional leadership

Agency management

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Cisco Systems, Inc. is seeking a PR Manager for Brand and Sponsorships to architect and execute a comprehensive PR strategy for our global brand partnerships.

You will lead as the primary communications partner for sports, cultural, and entertainment sponsorships, translating brand priorities into compelling narratives that amplify Cisco's value proposition and market positioning. You will collaborate with senior leaders, marketing, and agencies to drive high-impact campaigns, measure outcomes,