As an External Relations Manager, you will be responsible for developing and executing strategies to manage the organization’s relationships with external stakeholders, including clients, partners, vendors, regulatory agencies, and the community. Your role is vital in enhancing the organization’s reputation, fostering positive relationships, and promoting its interests through effective communication and engagement with external audiences.

Responsibilities:

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including clients, partners, vendors, regulatory agencies, government officials, and community leaders.
• Identify opportunities for partnership and collaboration to support the organization’s strategic goals and objectives

Public Relations and Brand Management:

• Develop and implement PR strategies to enhance the organization’s reputation and promote its brand among external audiences.
• Create compelling PR materials, including press releases, articles, blog posts, and social media content, to communicate key messages and highlight organizational achievements.

Media Relations:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, coordinating responses and interviews with appropriate spokespersons.
• Build relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers to secure positive media coverage and manage the organization’s presence in the media.

Government and Regulatory Affairs:

• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments that could impact the organization’s operations, providing insights and recommendations to senior management.
• Engage with government officials and regulatory agencies to advocate for the organization’s interests and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Community Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

• Develop and implement community engagement initiatives and CSR programs to support the organization’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainable practices.
• Identify opportunities for corporate philanthropy, volunteerism, and community partnerships to make a positive impact and enhance the organization’s reputation

Crisis Management:

• Develop and implement crisis communication plans and protocols to effectively manage and mitigate reputational risks during emergencies or adverse events.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the organization, providing timely and transparent communication to stakeholders and the media during crises.

Reporting and Analysis:

• Track and analyze external relations activities and outcomes, measuring the effectiveness of strategies and initiatives.
• Prepare regular reports and updates for senior management on external relations activities, accomplishments, and challenges.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, business administration, or a related field. Advanced degree or professional certification is a plus.
• Proven experience in external relations, public relations, or related fields, with a track record of success in building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport and trust with diverse stakeholders, including clients, partners, media professionals, and government officials.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a results-oriented mindset and a focus on achieving organizational objectives.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms, including social media, content management systems, and email marketing software.
• Experience in crisis management, media relations, government affairs, and/or community engagement.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.
• Commitment to ethical standards and best practices in external relations and stakeholder engagement.