Senior Communications Specialist

This is a full-time position based in Knoxville, Tennessee. This role will lead communications strategy and manage day-to-day relationships and projects for assigned clients. The ideal candidate is a strong strategic communicator and hands-on professional with particular expertise in earned media. This person must be able to develop the strategy and execute it from identifying and pitching media opportunities to writing content, building communications materials and managing projects through completion.

This is not a strategy-only or project management role. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with the Piper Communications team while taking direct responsibility for producing high-quality results for its clients. The role requires someone who can see the big picture and execute the details– developing strategy, identifying communications opportunities, writing and pitching stories, creating content, managing projects and keeping clients and deliverables moving forward across earned, owned and digital channels.

This role includes occasional out-of-town travel.

Piper Communications is a results-driven public relations firm specializing in advanced energy and technology. Our unique approach enables Piper Communications to deliver efficient and effective solutions for our clients.

We are a Woman-Owned Small Business and U.S. Department of Energy’s Mentor Protégé-Program graduate. Our office is located in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee, and we serve clients worldwide.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

Communications Strategy & Project Management

• Serve as the day-to-day communications lead for assigned clients, building strong relationships and developing a deep understanding of their goals, audiences and priorities.
• Develop communications strategies and translate them into specific, actionable work plans, deliverables and timelines.
• Lead client meetings, provide strategic recommendations and proactively identify communications opportunities.
• Manage multiple client accounts and projects simultaneously, keeping work on schedule and ensuring commitments are completed.
• Work collaboratively with Piper Communications team members while personally executing client work and taking ownership of deliverables.
• Coordinate with clients, team members and outside partners as needed to move projects from idea through execution.
• Anticipate client needs, identify next steps and proactively move work forward without waiting for assignments.

Media Relations

• Develop and execute earned media strategies that increase client visibility and advance business and organizational goals.
• Identify compelling stories and timely opportunities for clients based on their priorities, industry developments and the news cycle.
• Personally research, write and pitch story ideas to local, regional, trade and national media.
• Build and maintain relationships with reporters and editors and conduct consistent, proactive media outreach and follow-up.
• Draft press releases, media pitches, guest columns, talking points, briefing materials and other media content.
• Create targeted media lists and distribute press materials using Cision and other platforms.
• Coordinate media interviews and prepare clients to effectively communicate key messages.
• Monitor news and industry developments and quickly identify opportunities for clients to participate in relevant conversations.
• Track earned media results and prepare media audits and reports using tools such as CisionOne and CoverageBook.

Content Creation & Research

• Develop and execute content strategies and editorial calendars across LinkedIn and other relevant social media platforms.
• Personally draft and edit social media posts, blogs, newsletters, opeds, executive communications, website copy and other client content.
• Translate communications strategies into a consistent pipeline of relevant, audience-focused content rather than relying solely on client-provided ideas.
• Develop website content and information architecture, including site navigation, page organization, messaging and copy, and work with designers and developers to bring the site to completion.
• Adapt stories and messaging across earned, owned and social channels to maximize the value of client communications.

Multimedia Storytelling

• Identify opportunities to use video, photography, graphics and other multimedia to strengthen client storytelling.
• Develop concepts and content for multimedia projects and work with team members or outside partners to execute them.
• Create and edit basic multimedia content for social and digital channels.
• Conduct research and interviews needed to develop compelling, accurate communications materials.
• Translate complex technical, business and industry information into clear, accessible stories for different audiences.
• Stay current on news, trends and developments affecting assigned clients and their industries and bring relevant ideas and opportunities to the client and Piper Communications team.

Competencies

• This position requires demonstrated experience personally executing communications work; candidates whose experience is primarily limited to project management, account coordination or strategic oversight will not be a fit for this role
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Adaptability to shifting priorities and deadlines
• Problem-solving mindset with willingness to ask for help when needed
• Proficiency with GSuite, Microsoft Office, social media platforms, and media software (Cision, PR Newswire, etc.)

About PIPER Communications

PIPER Communications is a results-driven public relations firm specializing in advanced energy and technology. Our expertise includes media relations, message development, coalition building, organization management, event planning and government/community relations.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Generous PTO policy
• Simple IRA with employer match after 12 months
• Paid parental leave
• Paid parking and health insurance for full-time employees

PIPER Communications is an equal opportunity employer.

To apply, send your cover letter/email and resume to allison@piper-communications.com