Strategic External Communications Lead

McDermott Will & Schulte; Town of Boston (NY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

McDermott Will & Schulte is seeking an External Communications Manager to advance the firm's proactive PR strategy across markets. You will identify opportunities, pitch coverage, write press materials, and partner with stakeholders to elevate brand profile.

You will manage media relationships, monitor industry trends, and report KPIs using Salesforce and media tools, while coordinating with global teams to ensure consistent messaging and impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• At least five years of related work experience.
• Ability to build strong media relationships within key sectors.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of news distribution, media monitoring and tracking software.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain relationships with priority media outlets.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across brands and markets to implement strategic programs.
• Identify media opportunities and lead topic generation efforts.
• Pitch and place profile-raising coverage.
• Prepare press releases and client communications.
• Coordinate media interview requests and interview prep.
• Monitor KPIs and report media metrics; use data to inform plans.
• Support the global communications team.

Skills

Media relations

Press writing

Strategic communications

Relationship building

Project management

Story pitching

Written communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

Salesforce

Media monitoring software

Job description

McDermott Will & Schulte is seeking an External Communications Manager to advance the firm's proactive PR strategy across markets. You will identify opportunities, pitch coverage, write press materials, and partner with stakeholders to elevate brand profile.

You will manage media relationships, monitor industry trends, and report KPIs using Salesforce and media tools, while coordinating with global teams to ensure consistent messaging and impact.