Senior Communications Director

Who We Are

Join a team that puts its People First! Since 1889, First American (NYSE: FAF) has held an unwavering belief in its people. They are passionate about what they do, and we are equally passionate about fostering an environment where all feel welcome, supported, and empowered to be innovative and reach their full potential. Our inclusive, people-first culture has earned our company numerous accolades, including being named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for eight consecutive years. We have also earned awards as a best place to work for women, diversity and LGBTQ+ employees, and have been included on more than 50 regional best places to work lists. First American will always strive to be a great place to work, for all. For more information, please visit www.careers.firstam.com.

What We Do

We are seeking a Senior Communications Director that will be responsible for developing and implementing an impactful corporate communications strategy, providing guidance and counsel to senior leaders on all aspects of communications including internal/external communications, media relations, crisis communications and executive communications, and providing support for community and government affairs.

Essential Functions

• Develop and implement a comprehensive corporate communications strategy that aligns with the organization's business objectives and enhances the company's reputation
• Responsible for the executive communications program including executive speechwriting and thought leadership
• Serve as a senior company spokesperson and media contact, representing the company to the media, investors and other stakeholders
• Develop and write internal and external communications, including press releases, talking points and other materials
• Advise senior leadership on communication matters and provide counsel on crisis communications and reputation management
• Leading 360 advocacy campaigns including outreach to elected officials, building coalitions and developing community affairs/grassroots programs
• Develop and execute communication plans for major organizational initiatives, including mergers and acquisitions, new product launches and other high-profile events
• Develop and maintain effective channels of communication, including email, intranet, social media and other platforms
• Ensure that all internal communications are timely, accurate and relevant to the needs of employees
• Work closely with other departments to ensure that internal communications align with the overall business strategy and organizational goals
• Work alongside partners in legal and investor relations to ensure compliance with all requirements related to communications and public disclosures
• Manage and mentor the corporate communications and internal communications teams, providing leadership and guidance to ensure professional development and that teams and individuals understand roles and responsibilities via clear communication of goals and objectives
• Has full supervisory responsibility for staff.  Delegates tasks, manages work flow and plans staffing requirements.  Responsible for salary administration.  Interviews candidates and makes hiring decisions, writes and conducts performance reviews, provides ongoing feedback, and manages disciplinary actions. 

​Knowledge and Skills/Technology Used

• Demonstrated competency in executing strategic plans
• Demonstrated success with meeting the needs of a wide range of employees while driving team performance, monitoring results and appropriately allocating resources
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior leadership and across departments to achieve goals
• Knowledge of legal and regulatory requirements related to corporate communications and public disclosures
• Experience developing and managing budgets
• Possesses and applies a broad knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures of particular field of specialization to the completion of complex projects
• Progressive experience in leading employees in multiple locations, and significant experience developing and implementing solutions
• Possesses problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking, team building, and presentation skills
• Results oriented and solution thinking with time management and project management skills
• Displays leadership skills, leading by example, driving employee commitment through actions, and empowering employees to reach their full potential

Typical Education

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Advanced degree preferred

Typical Range of Experience

• 8+ years progressive management experience
• 12+ years in corporate communications or a related field, with a proven track record of success in developing and executing strategic communication plans

Pay Range: $116,800 - $194,700 annually

This hiring range is a reasonable estimate of the base pay range for this position at the time of posting.  Pay is based on a number of factors which may include job-related knowledge, skills, experience, business requirements and geographic location.

What We Offer

By choice, we don’t simply accept individuality – we embrace it, we support it, and we thrive on it! Our People First Culture celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion not simply because it’s the right thing to do, but also because it’s the key to our success. We are proud to foster an authentic and inclusive workplace For All. You are free and encouraged to bring your entire, unique self to work. First American is an equal opportunity employer in every sense of the term.

Based on eligibility, First American offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO/paid sick leave and other great benefits like an employee stock purchase plan.