External Communication Manager

Job Summary:

The External Communications Lead is responsible for gategroup’s public narrative and global reputation. The role manages external messaging end‑to‑end, ensuring corporate objectives are translated into compelling and consistent stories for media, investors, and the general public. Acting as a bridge between gategroup and external stakeholders, the position requires proactive media relations, executive positioning, and reactive risk mitigation. This is a high‑visibility role requiring a sophisticated understanding of the modern media ecosystem and strategic storytelling.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Media Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers.

• Write press releases, pitch stories, and act as the primary point of contact for media inquiries.
   

Strategic Messaging

• Translate complex business goals into compelling public narratives.

• Adapt the company’s core story to local market dynamics, values, and news trends while maintaining brand consistency.

Crisis Communications

• Serve as a core member of the Crisis Response Team

• Monitor reputational risks and develop rapid‑response messaging, including drafting holding statements and managing narratives to minimize brand impact.

Content Oversight

• Oversee external‑facing content, including annual reports.

• Translate complex sustainability data and ESG milestones into compelling stories for investors, regulators, and the public.
   

Core Competencies and Requirements:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field

Work Experience

• 8+ years of experience in PR, Corporate Communications, or Journalism with a deep understanding of the current media landscape

• Experience working in large, complex global organizations or top‑tier agencies

• Proven record of managing multiple stakeholders and local market requirements

• Strong portfolio of earned media placements in top‑tier and industry‑relevant outlets

• Demonstrated ability to simplify technical ESG data, financial reports, and business milestones into compelling narratives

• Experience acting as a first responder during reputational challenges, including drafting holding statements under tight deadlines

Technical / Language Skills

• Strong multilingual capabilities with cultural sensitivity to adapt global messaging for local audiences

• Fluent in English and German; French and Spanish are an advantage

• Practical experience with PR technology platforms (e.g., Cision, Meltwater, Muck Rack)

• Understanding of how social media influences and accelerates the news cycle