SOM, one of the most influential design firms in the world, is seeking innovative, creative, independent, and critical thinkers who aspire to the highest standards of excellence. Join our collaborative design practice as Communications Manager for the opportunity to build a strong and thriving career. Success at SOM Means Ideas: We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm. Knowledge: We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge. Product: We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, and delivery of our work. Individual: We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm. Team: We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential. Firm: We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work. Are you passionate about design and architectural storytelling? Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) is looking for a Communications Manager to oversee public relations and project communications in Chicago. Your core responsibilities will include leading key communications initiatives from project narratives and award submissions to press releases and events. You will become an expert on SOM’s project portfolio—spanning some of the most exciting buildings and urban plans of our time—through content creation and writing. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and has a passion for architecture and collaborative communication. Position Responsibilities Responsible for leading proactive/reactive communications strategies and content development in support of SOM’s communications and business development strategies. Creates and executes both overall and project-specific communications plans that highlight SOM’s expertise, leveraging all available tools, including digital platforms, virtual/in-person events, media outlets, and beyond to tell our story to key audiences. Consistently seeks out new strategic opportunities and brand collaborations to showcase our people and our work in a wide range of industry and mainstream media outlets. Takes an integrated approach to communications planning and implementation. Oversees regional communications with the media. Counsels SOM’s leaders on media engagement and conducts interview preparation. Maintains strong relationships with key media and client-focused professional associations. Leads creative development and writing of editorial projects. Writes and edits communications collateral, including press releases, website content, social media copy, internal communication pieces, award submittals and presentations. Uses a data-driven approach to measuring success of communications plans/campaigns and reports to leadership as needed. Collaborate with other public relations and communications experts to amplify SOM’s brand across regions Minimum Qualifications Minimum 3-5 years of experience as a communications/public relations manager within the architecture, design or commercial development industries. Agency or journalism experience is a plus. Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or related field. Proven track record of securing prominent media placements. Exceptional written and verbal communications skills. Natural storyteller. Ability to work accurately and effectively and with leadership in an environment with multiple deadlines and stakeholders. A collaborative approach to working with leadership, designers, clients and external parties to tell our story. Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign. Experience managing projects and a team simultaneously. Ability to work productively and collaboratively with colleagues representing different points of view. Able to execute and prioritize project tasks efficiently and accurately. Keen attention to detail. Exceptionally strong visual/design skills used for developing collateral materials. Excellent problem-solving, multi-tasking, time management and organizational skills. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team environment. Familiar with the issues and business drivers associated with the design and development of buildings and communities. Experience working with digital content and public relations platforms, e.g., Meltwater, Cision, Mailchimp, Wordpress, or related platforms. Please include a resume, cover letter, relevant writing samples and a portfolio of media placements. SOM offers opportunities to work on transformational projects, competitive salaries, health insurance, wellness, retirement and financial and other work/life plans. At SOM, we welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace. We believe an inclusive environment benefits our employees, our firm, and our community, while also enriching and challenging our own thinking about design. We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Visit this page to learn more about SOM's employment policy and how to apply offline: www.som.com/employment_opportunities_and_policy For more about SOM: www.som.com