Product & Technology Communications Spec Sr

"Vorsprung durch Technik" or, "Progress through Technology" is our company ethos and is the core belief that drives the development of every Audi vehicle. It inspires the innovative solutions, revolutionary engineering and progressive design that have become synonymous with the Audi name. And it reminds us to challenge ourselves, rewrite the rules from time to time and always fuel our pioneering spirit. The spirit that sets us apart on the racetrack and the open road. In our relentless pursuit to become the number one premium car brand in America, we need employees who share in this spirit of challenging the status quo in everything that we do.

Role Summary:

The Senior Product & Technology Communications Specialist is responsible for several important areas in product PR including: help increase the amount and quality of media coverage related to our core current and future technologies; assist in developing key messages and execution of communications over lifecycle of Audi technology and products; working with the Communications team to support product and technology launches and corresponding media activities through materials, media outreach and program executions.

Role Responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain relationships with the technology, automotive and other targeted media outlets in various media platforms.
• Understand the factors driving industry coverage; develop appropriate tech/product demonstrations, events and pitches that promote the brand. Package information that meets the needs of media platforms.
• Oversee the creation and selection of press materials for all tech and product press efforts for the U.S. including development and distribution of any press kits, photography, product information and Audi Press Website content.
• Lead the creation of technology/product/motorsport press events domestically and participate in international events to introduce new and updated products to the media (incl. tech media, automotive and non-automotive).
• Support the communication of Audi product and technology developments. Serve as an Audi Brand spokesperson when needed.
• Develop key presentations as necessary.
• Create ideas/topics for technical symposiums designed to provide North American journalists with firsthand knowledge of Audi technology advancements in areas such as piloted driving, connected car, lightweight technologies, MMI, for example.
• Collaborate with Product Managers and technology engineers/partners to leverage expertise in telling the stories.
• Work with Public Relations and Event agencies.
• Manage demonstrations of products or technologies and serve as company spokesperson with media and our technology partners.
• Work with entire Brand Marketing & Communications team to provide maximum positive coverage.
• Understand the Communications KPIs and what drives them.
• Support the creation and implementation as needed of press events both internationally and domestically.
• Manage work to increase the visibility of Audi spokespeople and personalities in the media.

Years of Relevant experience:

• 7-10 years of experience

Education - Required:

• Bachelor's degree
  

Education - Desired:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, English or Engineering

Skills:

• Analytical and conceptual thinking - using logic and reason, creative and strategic
• Communication skills - interpersonal, presentation and written
• Computer savvy - skilled in the use of software
• Integration - joining people, processes or systems
• Influencing and negotiation skills
• Problem solving
• Resource management

Specialized Skills - Required:

• Communication planning and execution Able to communicate complex technologies
• Journalism-oriented writing style
• Media relation skills
• Event planning and management

Specialized Skills - Desired:

• Communications experience with agency or OEM
• Proficiency with technical topics/writing

Work Flexibility:

• 50% travel
• Flexible work schedule - occasional work and/or travel on weekends or late during the week