Communication Specialist I Job at Zurich Insurance in Schaumburg

Overview

Zurich North America seeks a Communications Specialist to join a dynamic, collaborative team known for delivering strategic counsel that drives business results. Based in Schaumburg, IL, this hybrid role requires at least three days per week onsite and offers the opportunity to work alongside industry experts and make a real impact through insightful, creative communications.

Key Accountabilities

• Plan, create, edit and implement communication strategies and content for enterprise and marketplace audiences across paid, earned, shared and owned channels.
• Proactively pitch and secure media opportunities in Tier 1, trade and sector‑focused outlets by building strong relationships with journalists and key media contacts, managing media inquiries, and cultivating opportunities for Zurich spokespeople.
• Develop and deliver engaging content for web, social media and intranet platforms, ensuring alignment with Zurich’s brand, key messages and content strategy to drive strong audience engagement and advance strategic objectives.
• Collaborate with Communications Account Leads and Design to manage deliverables.
• Partner with business units and stakeholders to support communication needs, deepen knowledge of products and services, and provide counsel on media‑relations approaches for specific business areas.
• Support both short‑term and long‑term communications projects, providing regular status updates to leadership and partners.
• Maintain and update digital channels, monitoring content for accuracy and engagement.
• Monitor industry trends, activity and current affairs to inform communication strategies and ensure relevance in media relations.
• Track and report on communications activities and metrics, using insights to optimize future campaigns.
• Participate in special projects as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism or Public Relations and 5+ years of experience in Communications, Marketing, Media Relations or Public Relations.
• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 7+ years of experience in Communications, Marketing, Media Relations or Public Relations.
• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with an Associate Degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism or Public Relations and 5+ years of experience in Communications, Marketing, Media Relations or Public Relations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leveraging AI and communications technology to enhance strategic recommendations, improve efficiency and deliver innovative solutions while maintaining high ethical standards.
• Demonstrated ability to automate and streamline routine communications tasks for increased productivity (e.g., editing, proofing, reporting, basic research).
• Insurance and/or vertical industry acumen, e.g., construction, energy, life sciences, and manufacturing.
• Experience using media‑relations and web analytics tools such as Cision and Google Analytics to track, measure and report on communications performance.
• Strong analytical mindset with experience in competitive insights, crisis prediction and impact assessment.
• Experience identifying issues‑management situations and supporting response and mitigation strategies.
• Experience developing and executing communications strategies and campaigns.
• Proven media‑relations skills, including pitching to media outlets and building strong relationships with journalists and key media contacts.
• Proven copywriting skills (a writing test will be assigned during the interview process).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Excellent organizational skills.

Other Requirements

• Business travel as required.
• Extended hours during peak periods as required.
• Regular, predictable attendance.
• Visibility in the office as required.

EEO Statement

Zurich in North America is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.