VP, Communications

Upstart; San Francisco (CA); Remote; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in AI and financial inclusion seeks a VP of Communications to enhance their brand narrative and manage external communications. This strategic role requires extensive experience in PR and corporate communications, with a focus on innovation and collaboration.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in communications with PR and corporate comms experience.
• Strong understanding of fintech or regulated environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement external communications plan.
• Build relationships with media outlets and industry influencers.
• Serve as lead spokesperson during sensitive communications.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Creative Thinking

Excellent Writing

Storytelling

Media Relations

Job description

The Team

We’re seeking a strategic and hands-on VP of Communications to lead all facets of our external communications function. This includes public relations, executive communications, corporate messaging, and media strategy.

You’ll work cross-functionally to shape Upstart’s brand narrative and position us as a category-defining company at the forefront of AI, financial inclusion, and lending innovation.

Position Location - This role is available in the following locations: Remote, West Coast

Time Zone Requirements - This team operates on the West Coast time zones.

Travel Requirements - We expect you to travel to the San Mateo, CA office at least once a month to collaborate with leaders. As a digital first company, the majority of your work can be accomplished remotely. The majority of our employees can live and work anywhere in the U.S but are encouraged to to still spend high quality time in-person collaborating via regular onsites.

How you’ll make an impact:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive external communications plan aligned with company goals and mission.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with top-tier media outlets, journalists, and industry influencers to secure meaningful coverage that reflects Upstart’s mission and innovations.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and lead spokesperson during sensitive communications moments.
• Partner with the CEO and executive leadership to craft compelling narratives for media, speaking engagements, social media, and internal broadcasts.
• Own all product communications and corporate announcements

Minimum Requirements:

• 12+ years in communications, with significant experience leading PR, corporate comms, and executive comms for innovative, high-growth companies.
• Strong understanding of the fintech landscape or other highly regulated environments.
• Strategic and creative thinker with excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
• Experience leading through sensitive or high-profile communications situations (e.g., crisis, product incidents, leadership transitions).
• Advise execs on strategic communications, providing media training and presentation support.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in corporate communications, public relations, or a related field, preferably in the consumer technology space.
• Proven track record of managing product communications and media relations with a successful history of building and growing a function.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to work closely with executives and manage multiple stakeholders.