Senior Communications Strategist (Hybrid)

This is a hybrid role with the expectation that time working will regularly take place inside and outside of a company office. Please note this role will be expected to work 3 days a week in the office.

First Citizens Bank is seeking an experienced, self-motivated PR professional to join our small, fast-paced and collaborative Corporate Communications team. This team, which is part of Enterprise Communications for First Citizens, leads the global strategy and execution of corporate communications programs, including media strategy, media relations, social media, corporate messaging, corporate events and sponsorships, issues management and crisis communications to support key business priorities and core business units. The team aims to protect and advance First Citizens Bank's reputation.

In addition to supporting enterprise-wide external communications at the corporate level, including financial and business news, and issues management, this individual will collaborate with internal partners to support the communication needs of select business units and executive leaders. This individual will work collaboratively within the organization and provide critical thinking, strategy and results-oriented execution.

The ideal candidate has excellent communication skills (verbal and written), thrives in a fast-paced environment and is adept in managing multiple priorities at one time. The candidate is comfortable building media relationships, presenting to and providing counsel to senior executives and able to forge strong relationships throughout the company and the media landscape. The position will report to the Director of Corporate Communications, Events & Sponsorships.

• Develop comprehensive communications plans, based on key corporate business strategies, to drive results and achieve communication goals; ensure plans convey brand-consistent messaging and manage our corporate reputation
• Maintain and grow select media relationships across business, financial and industry-specific outlets
• Draft and edit content for external audiences (executive-level messaging, fact sheets, news releases, announcements and public-facing content)
• Develop and ensure consistency of global corporate communications tools, announcement and situational key messages and talking points
• Lead announcements/ communication campaigns as assigned
• Provide communications counsel and execution for assigned teams and senior executives
• Train and equip key spokespeople and support First Citizens associates in all interactions with the media
• Collaborate with other functions across the larger Marketing organization (Internal Communications, Brand & Advertising, Digital Strategy & Operations, Insights & Client Experience, Marketing Analytics, etc.)
• Assist with monthly and quarterly analysis of media coverage
• Work closely with our PR agency and other vendors, in collaboration with the Director, to guide activities and manage budgets and priorities

Bachelor's Degree and 6 years of experience in Communications and public relations OR

High School Diploma or GED and 10 years of experience in Communications and public relations

Preferred Qualifications:

• 8 years of experience in public relations and media relations
• Ability to work with and provide counsel to senior leaders
• Experience in financial services communication
• Strong time management and project management skills
• Experience leading cross functional teams and agency partners
• Brand management experience a plus

Benefits are an integral part of total rewards and First Citizens Bank is committed to providing a competitive, thoughtfully designed and quality benefits program to meet the needs of our associates. More information can be found at https://jobs.firstcitizens.com/benefits.

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