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Director, Corporate Communications Job
DSW
Columbus, OH, United States
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At DSW, we believe in the power of shoes. We understand shoes bring out something great from within, and since 1991 we've been helping everyone feel the rush of finding that perfect pair. So when you work for DSW, you become a part of all that. A family whose core values are comprised of passion, accountability, collaboration, and humility. You become one of us, You become a Shoe Lover!
The Director, Corporate Communications is the most senior communications leader for the company and is responsible for both the strategy and implementation of corporate communications initiatives supporting DSW’s mission and growth objectives.
A key priority for the Director is working with the CEO and the Executive Committee (EC) to implement DSW’s vision through communications strategies and tactics. In addition, the Director will support the leadership team and their communications needs. This is an exciting challenge for a high-energy, successful communications professional ready to assume a Director role and engage a newly formed function to contribute directly to DSW’s business objectives. The Director, Corporate Communications will report to the SVP, Human Resources.
Aligning Corporate Communications with DSW’s Business Goals
The EC has outlined initiatives to support DSW’s business goals. The scope of projects and opportunities range from strategic to tactical. The Director will be expected to focus first on gaining an understanding of communications activities throughout the organization. This will also enable the Director to identify any communications efforts underway either internally or externally that s/he should immediately become involved in. From the outset, there will be a mix of both strategic planning and practical “hands on” execution. These initiatives may involve internal board presentations, messages to employees, speeches and executive presentations, (for example at industry or internal events) and external and/or media relations.
Key Stakeholders
The focus is on consistent messaging, internal communications and supporting key organizational initiatives. Stakeholder groups include: Board Members, Executive Leadership, Employees, Customers, Vendors and the Community. Media Relations is not a key priority, although all media activities will be handled by Corporate Communications.
Director, Corporate Communications Short & Long-Term Goals
Short-Term Goals
Conduct assessment/audit of communications activities throughout the company with the objective of setting near-term priorities and developing an action plan for DSW
Work directly with the leadership team re: identifying opportunities where the Director could be helpful regarding specific projects/presentations. Also, provide support to the CEO on executive communications including presentations, speeches, employee messaging, etc.
Continue current momentum and activity on DSW’s philanthropic efforts (Shoe Lovers Care)
Long-Term Goals
Establish a communications plan to support DSW’s growth strategy that includes both internal and external components and the tools needed to meet those objectives. This may mean modifying and or developing new solutions. Social media may become useful to HR in communicating with employees on an enhanced basis. The content of the internal web site may need revision and/or updating.
Collaborate with Human Resources to support DSW’s employees on a variety of projects, e.g. new employee orientation, careers page website, etc. Determine via survey or other tools what news, issues or other questions should be addressed. Evaluate the use of Social Media to meet objectives as part of the overall communications plan.
Win support to implement key communications programs or initiatives by being a persuasive, effective consensus builder and leader.
Produce employee communications tool and determine appropriate utilization and frequency. (As part of the audit, a variety of options may emerge as viable.)
Act as company spokesperson to the media, including business and industry publications/outlets. Monitor key sources for industry trends and developments that could impact DSW and conduct media training for appropriate company representatives as needed.
Work with internal and external stakeholders to protect and enhance the reputation of DSW as it relates to our business, our products and our commitment to social responsibility.
Develop a formal crisis communications plan by assessing what has been the practice in the past and what improvements can be made.
Oversee the design and implementation of corporate communications projects to launch new information, services, products. Provide marketing communications support as needed.
Manage, service, evaluate, and administer vendor and other necessary contracts. Recommend what outside resources are needed (or make alternate recommendations) to meet the longer term goals of the Communications function.
Director, Corporate Communications Job Requirements
The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of experience in successively more responsible positions in mid to large-sized corporations. S/he will be able to demonstrate an ability to create new programs and achieve targeted results. A mix of agency and corporate experience is also acceptable. Having retail background is not essential but preferred. Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s Degree in Business and/or Communications is very desirable.
This is a “hands-on” position with a focus on action and winning by influence (not top down control). The Director will be highly energized and excited by the opportunity to build his/her own functional strategy. Since this position is responsible for internal and external communications, the Director will be expected to have experience managing both functions.
Energy, enthusiasm and drive are essential characteristics in a culture that is growing both organically and via acquisition. The new hire must be nimble with the potential to take on more responsibility and adapt quickly, as DSW seeks to increase its international business and grow through continued expansion and acquisition
While proactive media relations is not a primary focus of the post, the Director will be expected to be the spokesperson and media relations contact for the company, particularly should there be an issue that requires a response.
DSW believes that all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities. We do not discriminate against race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identify or any other protected classification recognized by state or federal laws.