Associate Director – External Communications

McDermott Will & Emery

Associate Director of External Communications at McDermott Will & Schulte developing and implementing public relations and social media strategies. Leading a team to align communications with firm objectives.

Posted 5/15/2026full-timeNew York City • District of Columbia, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $203,000 - $288,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop, direct, and implement the firm’s proactive and reactive public relations and social media strategy
Lead a team of in-house and agency resources to establish priorities and drive proactive campaigns
Advise firm leadership and collaborate with brand, communications and practice/industry teams
Provide strategic and day-to-day leadership for the firm’s social media program
Craft messaging and pitch profile-raising coverage for the firm
Manage external agency resources and establish frameworks for maximum value and oversee contracts
Monitor ongoing industry trends and competitor activity
Oversee PR-related spend within brand and communications budget
Optimize social media strategy and content based on performance insights

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree
A minimum of ten (10) years of related work experience
Proven experience and success in planning, developing, and executing public relations and social media strategies
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Demonstrated media relationships within key sectors
Ability to deliver in ambiguous and high-pressure environments
Ability to partner with C-suite executives
Ability to work under tight deadlines and prioritize responsibilities
Ability to handle and maintain confidential information
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work independently and under own direction and initiative
Strong organizational skills

Benefits

Comp & perks

Support for physical, emotional, mental, and financial health
Emphasis on work-life balance
Competitive total rewards package
Opportunity to earn performance-based bonuses
Comprehensive benefits package

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

public relations strategysocial media strategycampaign planningmessaging developmentmedia relationsbudget managementperformance optimization

Soft Skills

written communicationverbal communicationleadershiporganizational skillsability to work under pressureability to prioritizeindependenceinitiative

Certifications

Bachelor’s degree