Strategic Corporate Communications Lead

Palo Alto Networks; Reston (VA); On-site; USD 97,000 - 158,000; Full time

Job summary

Palo Alto Networks is seeking a high-energy, strategically-minded Manager of Corporate Communications to be the day-to-day architect of our “Woven Thread”—the unified narrative that connects Public Sector leadership, our M&A activity, and our Corporate mission. You will report to the Head of Global Crisis Communications and Reputation Management and work at the intersection of policy and PR.

This role demands exceptional writing, agile leadership, and the ability to turn complex policy into

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 8 years of experience, or Master's degree with 6 years in PR, Corporate Communications, or Public Affairs.
• Experience in B2B or government-adjacent roles is a major plus.
• Exceptional writing: translate a technical AI white paper or an M&A filing into a compelling story.
• Agility: a manager-doer mindset, comfortable pivoting from strategy to rapid-response statements.
• Strong organizational skills to juggle multiple projects (M&A, Public Sector, Corp PR).
• AI-forward: proficiency using AI tools to streamline content production, brainstorm angles, and analyze media pull-through.

Responsibilities

• Draft high-impact content that weave together Public Sector wins and Corporate milestones.
• Audit outbound messaging to ensure alignment with the Corporate Narrative and avoid silos.
• Lead the comms drumbeat for major initiatives and ensure a steady stream of stories that reinforce our identity.
• Turn complex policy positions into compelling external narratives for media and stakeholders.
• Identify 'Hero Stories' in government accounts and pitch to relevant media.
• Manage comms workstreams for acquisitions from Day 1 announcements onward.
• Monitor industry sentiment to support proactive reputation management and crisis readiness.
• Develop Executive Briefing Packs for leaders to speak consistently about the company's woven thread.
• Identify speaking opportunities and awards for Public Sector and Corporate experts.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

AI tools

Job description

Palo Alto Networks is seeking a high-energy, strategically-minded Manager of Corporate Communications to be the day-to-day architect of our “Woven Thread”—the unified narrative that connects Public Sector leadership, our M&A activity, and our Corporate mission. You will report to the Head of Global Crisis Communications and Reputation Management and work at the intersection of policy and PR.

This role demands exceptional writing, agile leadership, and the ability to turn complex policy into