External Communications Manager

Aon is looking for an External Communications Manager

As part of an industry-leading team, you will help empower results for our clients by delivering innovative and effective solutions supporting our communications team. This role can be in either Chicago, IL or New York, NY, with the ability to be virtual and work from the local office as needed.

Your impact as an External Communications Manager

The External Communications Manager will be a vital contributor to the Communications and Content Center of Excellence, conducting proactive and reactive media relations in support of the firm’s priorities. The role will report to the Head of Global Media and partner with colleagues in the Communications and Content team, the broader Marketing & Communications team and internal stakeholders to identify storytelling opportunities, develop communications plans and reach external audiences.

Job Responsibilities:

• Create and review communications materials, including press releases, media pitches, interview briefs and FAQs, among others 
• Establish and cultivate relationships with journalists at top-tier and trade media outlets 
• Develop and execute external communications strategy for global social impact initiatives, including ESG, Inclusion and Diversity, Early Careers/talent programs, the Aon Foundation/community outreach and company culture, partnering with colleagues on internal communications strategy 
• Contribute to development and execution of global corporate communications media strategy 
• Manage communications needs for reputational crises and issues 
• Partner on corporate social media strategy 
• Establish and maintain Global Media Center of Excellence resources, including calendar, playbooks, governance and templates 
• Manage external communications vehicles, including Aon.com Newsroom and newswire distribution 
• Field incoming media inquiries and manage Media Hotline/Media Inquiries mailbox

You Bring Knowledge and Expertise

Required Experience:

• At least five years of experience in corporate communications and media relations.
• Demonstrated success in building and maintaining relationships with journalists and securing positive top-tier and trade media coverage.
• Ability and willingness to perform both strategic and tactical elements of the role.
• Strong writing, editing, proofreading and verbal communications skills.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience in the financial services or professional services industries.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, marketing, English, liberal arts or equivalent.

We offer you

A competitive total rewards package, continuing education & training, and tremendous potential with a growing worldwide organization.