McDermott Will & Emery

External Communications Manager

McDermott Will & Emery • $138K — $194K *
Boston, MA 02115In-Person
Media
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree required
  • Minimum of 5 years in public relations or communications
  • Proven ability to establish media relationships
  • Familiarity with news distribution and media monitoring tools
  • Strong writing and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Ability to manage tight deadlines and maintain confidentiality

Responsibilities

  • Establish and nurture relationships with key media and industry influencers
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align communication strategies with business objectives
  • Analyze industry trends and competitor activities
  • Proactively identify media opportunities and generate relevant topics
  • Pitch and secure coverage to elevate the firm's profile
  • Craft various media messages and press materials
  • Serve as the primary contact for media inquiries and interview logistics

Benefits

  • Career development opportunities
  • Performance-based bonuses
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Supportive team environment
  • Flexibility to work independently and travel as needed
Full Job Description
Job Description:

The External Communications Manager supports the firm's proactive and reactive public relations strategy by identifying, pitching and placing opportunities that align with firm, practice, industry, and individual profile-raising priorities. This position is fully embedded in an integrated and global marketing, communications and business development team and partners with firm stakeholders to successfully implement strategic communication programs.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

  • Establish and maintain positive relationships with priority media outlets and key industry influencers


  • Develop strong relationships with firm stakeholders, including leadership, lawyers and lateral hires; collaborate with the wider brand and communications teams, business development, events and practice/industry marketing teams to implement strategic communication programs that align with business objectives and plans


  • Monitor ongoing industry trends, editorial calendars and competitor activity; provide trend analysis


  • Identify media opportunities; actively lead topic generation efforts and collaborate across practices and markets


  • Pitch and place profile-raising coverage


  • Craft media messages, including research and writing of press releases, drafting of deal announcements and other client-related communications as well as copy for the firm website


  • Serve as a firm contact for media requests; coordinate information and interview preparation


  • Collaborate with external agencies as directed by communications leaders


  • Proficiency of Salesforce to track PR activity and use data to report to stakeholders and inform public relations plans


  • Leverage the firm's news distribution and media monitoring tools


  • Track and report on KPIs and media metrics; maintain working knowledge of firm technologies and other resources


  • Track and report coverage using internal announcements, newsletters and .com, among others


  • Align and help implement firmwide processes related to media relations


  • Provide back-up support to the global communications team


Job Specifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree


  • At least five (5) years of related work experience


  • Ability to build strong media relationships within key sectors


  • Knowledge of news distribution, media monitoring and tracking software


  • Strong written and verbal communication skills


  • Strong organizational skills


  • Ability to work under tight deadlines and prioritize responsibilities


  • Ability to handle and maintain confidential information


  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment


  • Ability to work independently and under own direction and initiative


  • Ability to travel as needed


Successful candidates will be provided with outstanding career opportunities and will receive a competitive total rewards package with the opportunity to earn performance-based bonuses.
Target Hiring Range $138,000 - $194,000
Please note that quoted salary ranges are not guarantees of what final salary offers may be. Base pay is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. Base pay is only one part of the Total Rewards that MWE provides to compensate and recognize our staff professionals for their work. Full time positions are eligible for a discretionary bonus and a comprehensive benefits package.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, stoop, talk and hear
  • Employee must occasionally lift up to twenty (20) pounds


Work Environment:

Typical indoor office environment

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people within this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this job.

About McDermott Will & Emery

McDermott Will & Emery is a premier international law firm with a diversified business practice. Our lawyers represent a wide range of commercial, industrial and financial enterprises, both publically and privately held. McDermott has more than 1,100 lawyers located in 18 offices across the United States, Europe and Asia. Further extending our reach in Asia, we have a strategic alliance with MWE China Law Offices in Shanghai. McDermott partners with clients to accomplish their business objectives by providing superior counsel and service. The expansion of our international platform has supported numerous cross-border transactions and litigation matters, while providing the experience necessary to offer corporate, tax, labor and benefits, competition, intellectual property and regulatory counsel to clients across all industries. In the years to come, we will continue to expand geographically and enhance our existing practices and industry-focused strengths, and are committed to building from these strengths in order to best serve our clients and communities. McDermott has a long history of social responsibility and supporting the communities in which our people live and work. We believe it is our obligation to embrace our communities and promote their well being through pro bono work, community service, charitable giving, environmental stewardship and promoting diversity.

McDermott Will & Emery Careers

Joining McDermott Will & Emery presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance a career at a global leader in legal services. The firm is renowned for fostering professional growth and embracing innovation through a culture that values diversity and leadership.

Explore Job Opportunities

McDermott Will & Emery offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and professional interests. The firm seeks passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players ready to contribute to a dynamic team. From seasoned attorneys to support staff, McDermott Will & Emery is continuously hiring to enhance their service capabilities.

Internship Programs

Internships at McDermott Will & Emery provide a robust platform for early-career individuals to gain significant, hands-on experience in a highly professional environment. Interns are immersed in the culture of excellence, working closely with experienced professionals while engaging in real-world legal challenges.

Career Growth and Development

McDermott Will & Emery is committed to the professional development of its team members. The firm offers unmatched training, development programs, and leadership workshops to ensure career trajectories are not only met but exceeded. Employees are encouraged to leverage these opportunities for career advancement and personal growth.

Diversity and Inclusion

The firm holds a strong commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. McDermott Will & Emery believes in empowering all employees through diversity training that enriches the professional environment and fosters a deeper understanding and respect among colleagues.

Benefits and Culture

McDermott Will & Emery prides itself on offering competitive benefits that reflect the firm’s appreciation for its team members. Benefits are designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of all employees and their families. The firm's culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and collaboration, making it a prime environment for professional fulfillment.

Networking and Innovation

Networking within McDermott Will & Emery is supported through various events, seminars, and collaborative projects that encourage connections and foster innovative thinking. Employees are encouraged to build networks that can support personal and professional growth.

Applying for a Position

To apply for a position at McDermott Will & Emery, candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter through the firm’s Careers page. The hiring process may include multiple stages of interviews to ensure a mutual fit both for the candidate and the company.

Stay Connected with McDermott Will & Emery Careers

Interested professionals can stay informed about new openings and company news by subscribing to job alert emails. These updates provide valuable insights into the firm and the legal industry, helping potential candidates find the right opportunities.

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests at McDermott Will & Emery. Explore what it means to be part of a global leader in legal services and discover how your contributions can make a direct impact.

SEARCH MCDERMOTT WILL & EMERY JOBS

Read Careers Blog

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the professionals who work at McDermott Will & Emery.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at McDermott Will & Emery.
Learn more about McDermott Will & Emery
Industry
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Founded
1934
* Ladders Estimates

Similar Jobs

Ad banner background

Get Ready For Your
Next Interview

More Jobs at McDermott Will & Emery

More Media Jobs

Find similar External Communications Manager jobs:

NationwideBoston, MA