Role Summary/Purpose:
This position is a key member of the External Corporate Communications Team reporting to the SVP, External Corporate Communications and Public Affairs. The Public Affairs Vice President will lead communications efforts tied to corporate reputation building, policy priorities, guide advocacy engagement, and manage key third-party stakeholders. Working closely with Government Affairs, Corporate Events, Brand, and others, this role will work cross-functionally to shape and enhance Synchrony’s corporate reputation through best-in-class public affairs capabilities, including but not limited to media relations, message creation, coalition management, crisis response, and grassroots engagement.
** This position has flexibility to work from our Washington DC hub or work from home in the DC-area with the expectation of engaging in many in person events and connections in DC. **
Essential Responsibilities:
Develop a long-term strategic advocacy and public policy-related communications program to support Synchrony’s policy objectives and reputation building
Identify partnership opportunities with key third-party groups and opinion leaders to advance Synchrony’s legislative priorities
Lead issue campaigns and corporate reputation initiatives with an emphasis on creative storytelling and content development including issues briefs, fact sheets, and other materials
Develop, lead, and drive project plans to ensure that communications campaigns achieve intended results addressing gaps as needed to meet targets
Manage issues and reactive communications in coordination with the Corporate Affairs function
Facilitate regular communication on Synchrony’s business and public policy priorities with internal and external stakeholder, including media, trade associations, consultants, interest groups, and others
Contribute as a key member of the Corporate Communications Team to highlight the company’s leadership, partnerships, and storytelling
Manage agency partners, including oversight and management of campaign budgets
Support internal and external events as appropriate, including advising on DC and policy-focused events and sponsorships
Move quickly and feel comfortable having autonomy to lead projects
Understand how to get things done in a large, matrixed organization
Enjoy a role that is a mix of public affairs and corporate communications with an emphasis on creating a favorable policy environment at the state and federal level
Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned
Qualifications/Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree. In lieu of degree, HS Diploma/GED and 12+ years of relevant communications experience
10+ years of communications experience at a large organization or a leading PR agency
Experience working in public affairs, on political campaigns, or with state or federal elected officials
Experience at or with a company in a highly regulated industry
Experience developing 360-degree strategic communications plans and drive successful execution
Possess a politically savviness to understand how the external environment impacts company priorities
Excellent written and verbal communication, with a distinct ability to distill complex ideas into simple, understandable messaging
Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to build lasting partnerships, internally and externally
Highly collaborative team player with an ability to juggle multiple initiatives with a positive attitude
Ability and flexibility to travel for business as required
Desired Characteristics:
Strong leadership presence with the ability to counsel senior leaders and influence cross-functional partners
Demonstrated ability to manage ambiguity, exercise sound judgment, and make decisions in high-stakes environments
State government and/or state political affairs experience
Record of accomplishment with respect to state legislative issues
Experience working with industry trade associations
Grade/Level: 13
The salary range for this position…