External Communications Lead (Telecommunications)

TL;DR

External Communications Lead (Telecommunications): Developing and executing public relations strategies to enhance brand visibility and manage reputational risk with an accent on media engagement and executive visibility. Focus on building national and local media relationships, managing agency partners, and coordinating crisis communications.

Location: Hybrid; priority for candidates based in Charlotte, NC

Company

Fiber optic internet provider upgrading copper networks to bring faster broadband to underserved rural markets across the Midwest and South.

What you will do

• Develop and execute external communications strategies aligned with company objectives and brand positioning.
• Build and maintain relationships with national, trade, and local media outlets to secure coverage.
• Manage day-to-day relationships with public relations agency partners to ensure delivery of goals.
• Partner with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Sales, Finance, and HR to align PR initiatives.
• Draft press releases, media briefings, and executive materials, ensuring message consistency.
• Coordinate crisis communications plans and analyze media coverage performance.

Requirements

• 7+ years of progressive experience in public relations or corporate communications.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, English, or Public Relations.
• Proven experience in media relations and agency management within complex organizations.
• Proficiency in using generative AI tools to accelerate communications drafting and editing.
• Strong knowledge of Associated Press (AP) Style.
• Experience handling crisis communications and sensitive messaging.

Nice to have

• Experience in the telecommunications, internet service provider, or cable industry.
• Experience supporting executive visibility and spokesperson preparation.
• Familiarity with community relations or local market PR initiatives.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401K plan with company match.
• Employee assistance program and a variety of voluntary benefits.
• Culture focused on inclusion, belonging, and authenticity ("Being Real").
• Modern hybrid work environment based in a vibrant Charlotte HQ.