Senior Director, External Communications – Business

Cooley LLP; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 200,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

PTO & holidays

Parental leave

Life insurance

AD&D

Job summary

Cooley LLP in Washington, DC, seeks an Associate Director of External Communications for Business to lead strategic media relations and reputation efforts. Working with the Director and firm leaders, you will shape messaging and manage a team to elevate the firm’s position in business, tech and legal developments.

The role requires 8+ years in communications, with 4+ years in management, ability to travel, and a proven track record of guiding high‑profile initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications or related field.
• 8+ years' direct experience in communications or public relations, with management experience.
• 4+ years' management experience, including mentoring and coaching.
• Willingness to travel and work extended hours as required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of communications professionals and agencies.
• Develop strategies with department leadership to support firm priorities and markets.
• Oversee awards programs, submissions and recognitions for the department.
• Write and edit press releases, pitches and talking points.
• Shape stories around the department, clients and lawyers across industries.
• Lead external campaigns via earned media, social media and thought leadership.
• Serve as a spokesperson and media contact for inquiries.
• Advise leadership on media strategy and reputation management.
• Provide crisis communications counsel and media training.

Skills

Executive leadership

Media relations

Crisis communications

Strategic thinking

Team management

Public relations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Communications or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

iManage

Media tracking tools

Job description

Cooley LLP in Washington, DC, seeks an Associate Director of External Communications for Business to lead strategic media relations and reputation efforts. Working with the Director and firm leaders, you will shape messaging and manage a team to elevate the firm’s position in business, tech and legal developments.

The role requires 8+ years in communications, with 4+ years in management, ability to travel, and a proven track record of guiding high‑profile initiatives.