External Communications Expert (m/f/d) - open to multiple location

Job Description

Key purpose: Bring extensive experience & expertise to define and execute the division’s external communication strategies. 

Responsibilities:
•    Strategic Communication Expertise: Leverage expertise to develop and execute external communication strategies that strengthen the company’s reputation and align with divisional and corporate goals. Serve as a resource for strategic advice on complex external communication challenges, ensuring consistency in brand messaging across all PR channels,
•    PR Strategy and Execution: Collaborate closely with team members specializing in PR Strategy & Agency Management and PR Content & Media Relations to ensure a unified approach to external communications. Provide input and expertise for key campaigns, initiatives, & events, ensuring external messaging reflects the company’s values and objectives, 
•    Media Relations & Stakeholder Engagement: Support thought leadership initiatives by contributing to or shaping executive-level content and public-facing materials,
•    Crisis Communication Support: Provide senior-level input on strategy, messaging, and execution. Collaborate with the broader communications team to ensure alignment between external crisis messaging and internal communications,
•    Performance Monitoring and Improvement: Contribute to the development and refinement of KPIs to measure the success of external communications activities. Monitor industry trends and competitor strategies, providing recommendations to maintain a competitive edge in external communications.

Your profile:
•    Min. bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field,
•    7+ years in an external communications or PR role, ideally in a multinational environment, with experience in PR strategy, crisis management, media relations,
•    Proven success in developing and implementing external communication strategies that align with business goals and adapt to dynamic market needs,
•   Experience in managing high-stakes situations and leading external communication efforts to safeguard and enhance brand reputation,
•    Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with high-level media, influencers, and key stakeholders,
•    Ability to measure and evaluate PR performance using quantitative and qualitative metrics, and to provide actionable insights for continuous improvement,
•    Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners, providing expertise and ensuring alignment across all communications,
•    Fluent English, 
•    Knowledge of the automotive aftermarket industry (or similar B2B sectors) is a plus.

Why should you choose ZF: 
•    An employment contract in a stable, global company,
•    Implementation package-full training and support from experienced managers and employees who will make sure that you feel comfortable while performing newly entrusted tasks,
•    Hybrid system work, flexible working hours,
•    Possibility of participation in private medical care (incl. dental care) and life insurance,
•    Cafeteria system/Sport Card,Global Referral Program,
•    Very good working atmosphere; working in an international team, interesting projects, and tasks.