Communications Specialist

As a member of the Communications Team, the Communications Specialist leads projects independently, participates in team efforts and works closely with the Director of Corporate Communications, Communications Manager, the Communications and Public Relations teams, other members of M&C as well as other departments and firm leadership on a variety of communications and other initiatives. Responsibilities require a high-level of organization, attention to detail, and strong communications and client service skills.

• Serve as communications-related point or supporting role with select businesses, departments while assisting with team operations functions, technologies and projects.
• Ensure communication style, approach and messages are consistent with Baird’s culture, brand and voice. 
• Work with firm leaders, business units, departments, and associate resource groups to accomplish goals.
• Help manage internal firmwide communications schedule, editorial calendars and large group survey plans to ensure appropriate pacing and sequencing. 
• Write, edit, design, update and distribute/post a broad range of communications and recommends communications strategies, timelines and channels, such as large group emails, intranet posts, digital signage. 
• Work on select awards and recognitions, which may include gathering information, scheduling, writing, editing, collaborating with other firm functions, coordinating reviews, entering submissions and leveraging accolades. 
• Administer technologies for communications functions such as email analytics, surveys or others, and related implementation and reporting. 
• Track and report on large group emails, intranet, firmwide meetings and other communications initiatives. 
• Collaborate with Communications, Public Relations and others to identify the purpose, scope and content of communications in order to develop both simple and complex communications plans. 
• Advise internal clients and creates, distributes, monitors and reports results for internal client surveys. 
• Contribute to team operations, including developing, documenting, implementing and refining activities with team and in some cases leading initiatives. 
• Collaborate with other departments and senior leaders to plan and execute communications aspects of all associate meetings and events. 
• Develop PowerPoint presentations, talking points, biographies and other materials for senior leaders.

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations or equivalent preferred. Strong knowledge of communications strategies and implementation. 
• 5 or more years’ experience in a communications position or similar role; prior experience in the broader public relations or marketing and communications arena a plus. 
• Financial services industry experience a plus. 
• Strong verbal and written communications skills (including grammar, editing and proofing).
• Excellent client service skills and ability to work effectively with internal and external clients, including senior leaders. 
• Exceptional computer skills including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook. 
• Experience with Qualtrics, PoliteMail and Loopio or similar tools a plus. 
• Ability to handle multiple assignments and produce consistently strong results with accuracy and reliability. 
• Willingness to work extended hours and to take on additional responsibilities as warranted.

You will earn a base salary and bonus based on individual performace and the firm's performance.  You will also be eligible for our Total Rewards package including: 

• Full Benefits including Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401K participation with a Match
• Profit Sharing 
• Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, and Baird Cares Volunteer hours and More.