This position is responsible for providing advice and counsel to senior executive leaders with respect to external communications. It leads the development, coordination and execution of external communications strategies to support ComEd’s vision and to maintain and enhance company reputation. In addition, this position will develop and establish relationships with internal stakeholders and other external organizations (including media, state and local government, public interest groups) and serve as primary spokesperson to the news media along with the rest of the communications team. The incumbent will oversee the execution and management of external programs, including managing communications resources as required; the assignment, editing and critiquing of communications materials; coaching and feedback for employees and others assigned.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Ensure quality and effective communication of company goals and initiatives to external stakeholders, including media, customers, elected officials and regulators. 
• Ensure quality of all employee communications programs and initiatives and provide communications support to all internal stakeholders. 
• Manage external vendor(s), ensuring they deliver services that meet our needs on time and on budget. 
• Ensure quality, timely and effective communication of company goals through social media channels. 
• Direct staff of nine, including hiring, talent development, performance management and recognition. 

JOB SCOPE

• Develop and implement external communications strategy, including the social media strategy. Individual must work closely with senior executive team and other leaders across business units.
• Responsible for measuring effectiveness of communications programs, providing oversight and ensuring execution of programs. Also responsible for overseeing external agency vendors.
• A high level of thought leadership is required.
• Oversee a staff of nine, including three direct reports. Ability to work cross functionally with Senior Manager of Communications, Senior Manager of Brand Strategy, Marketing Director and direct reports to ensure overall success of department.
• Individual must possess exceptional communications and interpersonal skills.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism or related field. 
• At least 12 years of relevant experience in a fast-paced, dynamic and technical organization, in lieu of degree, 15-20 years of relevant experience. 
• 5 years in a leadership role. 
• An intuitive and highly strategic thinker; exceptional experience leading a team of people; can engender support and trust from a team and lead through influence. 
• Project management expert, ability to meet deadlines, establish clear priorities quickly and bring projects to completion on time and within budget.
• A proven track record of working effectively under pressure and handling a heavy workload.
• Ability to synthesize and communicate complex issues to various stakeholders.
• Strong intellectual capacity; a quick learner.
• Known ability to influence public opinion through leadership, credibility and clear message delivery.
• A highly strategic thinker who is self-confident and appropriately aggressive, characterized by such traits as straightforwardness, flexibility, a sense of urgency and at home in a fast paced, deadline driven environment. 
• Individual must possess exceptional communications and interpersonal skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• MBA
• Experience working in government, politics or public affairs.