Corporate Communications Expert
General Description:
We live in a moment of remarkable change and opportunity that is cognitive computing. The convergence of data and technology is transforming industries, society and even the workplace. CognitiveScale is a high-energy, high-growth company funded by entities such as IBM, Intel, Microsoft and Norwest. We are seeking an enterprising individual to join our growing team as a Corporate Communications Expert who is highly effective with traditional methods, including managing agencies and analyst firm relationships, while constantly pushing the envelop with new social media tools. .
Reporting to the VP of Marketing, this professional will be responsible for managing the strategic planning and execution of all media and analyst campaigns to raise awareness of and preference for CognitiveScale. To be successful, this candidate must effectively work cross-functionally with the executive leadership and product management teams to identify, generate and coordinate story development that provides thought leadership and positioning in our markets. He/she must possess media (online, social, traditional) skills, strong industry analyst relations (Gartner, IDC, Forrester, etc.) experience, exceptional storytelling skills, strong writing and content development, strategic editing capabilities and project management. He/She will also manage the social identity and communication for the company
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND OBJECTIVES:
- Lead PR/AR strategy and execution
- Integrate PR-AR planning with marketing planning cycles, programs and events.
- Own news creation, press content calendar, press release development and execution
- Own the category blog content creation
- Own customer reference program including success story development and promotion, and developing/fulfilling customer speaking, press coverage and social sharing opportunities
- Manage the company awards, speaking and editorial calendar programs
- Develop and manage the company industry analyst relations (AR) program by building relationships and understanding among tier 1 and 2 analysts; secure analysts as positive press references; track research agendas of the leading analyst firms and insure inclusion in relevant reports and positive perception of CognitiveScale
- Coordinate with CognitiveScale Europe to integrate PR, AR and content efforts where needed.
- Manage and lead vendor resources, track metrics,reporting results monthly/quarterly to executive leadership.
- Establish and report monthly and quarterly on metrics that align to business objectives (awareness benchmarking, share of voice, positive coverage, etc.).
- Interlock with the website team to ensure all content is placed and promoted.
- Strong knowledge of technology PR and AR space
- Proven ability to apply communications programs linked to business strategy
- Extensive knowledge of media relations (earned, owned and paid)
- Industry analyst relations experience and ability to demonstrate business results
- Strong track record in forming productive relationships with influential business, IT, vertical and social media
- Understanding of key social media platforms including Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and ability to use social analytics platforms to understand results
- Exceptional storytelling, content creation, writing, and strategic editing skills Experience working cross functionally (business units, marketing, IT, etc.) and with internal customers at various levels (executive, SMEs) as well as external customers and influencers
- Ability to confidently communicate strategic counsel verbally and in writing
- Understanding of sales environment and opportunities of communications to influence B2B sales decisions
- Knowledge of PR Newswire
- Knowledge of Photoshop a plus
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS:
- Proven ability to work proactively and strategically
- Ability to be flexible and work analytically in a problem-solving environment
- Excellent organization, time management and project management skills
- Must display professionalism, confidence, and strong interpersonal skills
- High energy and drive to support a fast-moving, dynamic work environment
- Detail oriented
- Bachelors degree in communications or related
- Minimum 5 years of experience
- Strong understanding and proficiency of Microsoft Office
- Proficient with social channels and analytics platforms like HootSuite, Percolate
CognitiveScale is an Equal Opportunity Employer. CognitiveScale does not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, or disability.