Director, Technology and Operations Communications

Northern Trust

. Develops strategic plans and sets priorities aligned to enterprise direction, with a strong focus on Technology, Operations and Data communications; ensures execution against goals.

Posted 5/14/2026full-timeChicago • Illinois • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $137,400 - $240,400 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Cyber Security

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develops strategic plans and sets priorities aligned to enterprise direction, with a strong focus on Technology, Operations and Data communications; ensures execution against goals.
Acts as the lead communications partner for senior executives across Technology, Operations and Data, providing strategic counsel on messaging, positioning and stakeholder engagement.
Leads the development and execution of integrated communications campaigns tied to enterprise priorities, including AI, technology strategy, foundational initiatives and transformation efforts.
Translates complex technical and operational topics into clear, compelling and accessible messaging for a range of audiences, including partners, clients, media and industry stakeholders.
Maintains strong awareness of emerging industry developments and trends, proactively shaping messaging and advising leadership on how to respond quickly and effectively to evolving issues.
Advises leadership on issues management and crisis communications, particularly those related to technology, operations, data and cybersecurity, ensuring timely, coordinated and effective messaging.
Develops and executes a multi-channel executive visibility strategy, spanning internal communications, social media and relevant external platforms to elevate leadership presence and thought leadership.
Prepares and oversees development of executive-level materials, including board presentations, partner Town Hall decks, keynote speeches, fireside chat talking points and other leadership communications.
Leads the development of engaging content tailored across platforms, including thought leadership, sales collateral, social media, digital marketing, media relations, video production, client communications and internal communications.
Plans, develops and implements communication strategies, messaging and creative execution.
Drives performance of content strategy through measurement and insights; ensures alignment with brand and business priorities.
Works closely with leadership and subject matter experts to deliver high-impact communications programs.
Ensures consistency of messaging and brand across all communications globally.
Leads and develops teams, managing performance, resourcing and priorities aligned to business needs.
Stays current on industry trends, particularly in AI, emerging technologies and data-driven communications.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Requires 10-12 years of relevant experience in communications, content strategy or a related field.
Deep expertise in communications and content strategy, with the ability to translate complex topics into clear, compelling narratives.
Strong knowledge of—and curiosity about—emerging industry issues across technology, operations and data, with the ability to stay ahead of developments, assess implications and determine how, when and to whom to respond.
Recent IT communications experience needed
Exceptional writing and editorial capability, with the ability to produce concise, impactful, creative and action-oriented content that resonates with audiences and drives engagement.
Proven ability to create compelling content across formats, including infographics, articles, headlines, video scripts and executive communications, with strong editorial judgment for what audiences will read, engage with and share.
Strong executive presence and ability to influence and advise senior leadership on messaging, positioning and communications strategy.
Excellent judgment and instincts in high-stakes, fast-moving or sensitive situations, including issues and crisis communications.
Strong ability to lead, communicate and collaborate across departments.
Established people leader with a track record of coaching talent, managing performance, and aligning team outcomes to strategic priorities.
Exceptional project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, navigate complexity and meet deadlines.
Strong organizational skills and ability to foster team creativity, collaboration and performance.
In-depth functional and industry knowledge, particularly supporting large, complex organizations.
Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Journalism or a related field preferred.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Benefits

Comp & perks

retirement benefits (401k and pension)
health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, spending accounts and disability)
paid time off
parental and caregiver leave
life & accident insurance
other voluntary and well-being benefits
discretionary bonus program that may include an equity component

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

communicationscontent strategywritingeditorial capabilityproject managementcrisis communicationsdigital marketingmedia relationsexecutive communicationsAI

Soft Skills

leadershipinfluencecollaborationorganizational skillsjudgmentcreativitystrategic thinkingcommunicationcoachingperformance management