Strategic Awards Communications Manager

McDermott Will & Schulte; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 115,000 - 161,000; Full time

Job summary

McDermott Will & Schulte in Chicago seeks a Firmwide Communications Manager, Awards to lead the firm's awards program, coordinating with partners, Marketing Communications, Business Development, and client teams to develop compelling submissions.

The role requires a BA, 5+ years in related work, strong writing, AP style mastery, and excellent organizational and relationship-building skills; the firm offers a competitive total rewards package and discretionary bonus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5+ years of related work experience.
• Strong writing skills and ability to produce polished content.
• Mastery of AP Style and journalistic reporting principles.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams, build relationships, and adapt to changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic plan for the firm’s awards and recognition program, including objectives, priorities, processes, and outcomes.
• Manage an annual calendar of award and recognition opportunities and track progress using a CRM system.
• Partner with Marketing Communications, Business Development and other teams to identify and draft compelling submissions aligned with the firm’s brand and priorities.
• Collaborate with the Client Experience team to support client relationships through awards programs.
• Track, analyze and report on progress, outcomes and metrics to demonstrate impact and drive continuous improvement.
• Support the preparation and submission of secondary directory submissions, including Global Review Guides.

Skills

Writing skills

Verbal communication

Organizational skills

Project management

Cross-functional teamwork

Relationship building

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

McDermott Will & Schulte in Chicago seeks a Firmwide Communications Manager, Awards to lead the firm's awards program, coordinating with partners, Marketing Communications, Business Development, and client teams to develop compelling submissions.

The role requires a BA, 5+ years in related work, strong writing, AP style mastery, and excellent organizational and relationship-building skills; the firm offers a competitive total rewards package and discretionary bonus.