SVP, Corporate Communications

The Senior Vice President (SVP), Corporate Communications will report to the Vice Chairman as the Head of Corporate Communications for Focus Features. The SVP will be responsible for establishing the communications strategy to support and build the brand narrative of Focus Features. In addition to setting the strategy, The SVP, will take a leadership role in the executing tactics such as crafting of key internal and external communications as well as lead various projects including shaping press releases, media alerts, planting stories, crisis management, managing executive profiles and list submissions, generating briefing notes, talking points, speeches, and Q&As. The ideal candidate will work proactively to secure appropriate opportunities among trade and consumer front to generate radio, print, online, social media and broadcast opportunities to generate maximum, positive publicity for the studio’s branding, marketing, special projects, community outreach and awards campaigns. This position is based in the Universal City, CA offices. Essential Responsibilities: · Develop overarching communications strategy and create and edit key communications materials including announcements, press releases, talking points, Q&A, speeches, program descriptions, articles, and bios that support the strategy. · Strategically, proactively and reactively manage box office press. · Forge a strategic and collaborative partnership with our communications group on issues management, messaging and positioning relating to key film priorities, and crisis communications. · Proactively identify issues and opportunities related to Corporate Communications, establish potential solutions, and communicate to the appropriate key senior Focus Features leaders and stakeholders. · Oversee preparation of written communications, including talking points, press releases, memos, strategy documents. · Work within the larger Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG) Communications team to liaise with filmmakers and productions to ensure we’re appropriately aligned as they ramp up. · Manage the external and internal communication strategies for Focus including media relations, executive thought-leadership, and development of key messages / positioning. · Work across the Focus departments, including Production and Acquisitions, Physical Production, Business & Legal Affairs, Publicity, and Events to ensure they are aligned and consistent with our communication strategies. · Act as a liaison between Focus and our parent company NBCUniversal on relevant internal events/communications strategies. · Identify and liaise with key forums, networking, and thought-leadership opportunities for Focus executives. · Partner with teams across the division including marketing, special projects and DEI, and programming to provide communications support. · Utilize existing media relationships and establish new relationships to manage day-to-day transactional media relations, maintaining strong relationships with business and trade reporters, to manage incoming project requests and announcements. · Work closely with the publicity team to manage crises communications/conflict situations and may be asked to serve as spokesperson. · Partner with the publicity team to announce production announcements, partnerships, and press releases as needed. · Other duties and projects as needed