Strategic External Communications Lead

Cooley LLP; Santa Monica (CA); On-site; USD 200,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

PTO 25 days

Parental leave and fertility benefits

Job summary

Cooley LLP is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications - Business to shape and execute strategic programs, lead media relations, and elevate the firm's reputation in the technology, business and legal sectors.

Working with firm leadership and the communications team, you will guide messaging, manage a team of professionals, oversee awards programs, craft press materials, and respond to media inquiries, including crisis scenarios.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years' direct experience in communications or PR with 4+ years in management.
• Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field.
• Strong media contacts and experience handling crisis and high‑profile matters.
• Knowledge of digital marketing, social media, and content creation best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of communications professionals and external partners.
• Develop media strategies, messaging and responses for high‑impact matters.
• Oversee awards and recognitions programs and key submissions.
• Write and edit press materials, pitches and talking points.
• Advise leadership on reputation management and media training.

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communications

Strategic leadership

Executive presence

Team management

Public relations

Communication strategy

Writing and editing

Education

Bachelor's degree in English/Journalism/Communications

Tools

Microsoft Office

iManage

Job description

Cooley LLP is seeking an Associate Director of External Communications - Business to shape and execute strategic programs, lead media relations, and elevate the firm's reputation in the technology, business and legal sectors.

Working with firm leadership and the communications team, you will guide messaging, manage a team of professionals, oversee awards programs, craft press materials, and respond to media inquiries, including crisis scenarios.