Zurich North America is hiring: Communication Specialist I in Chicago

Communication Specialist I – Zurich North America

Zurich North America is seeking a Communications Specialist to join a dynamic, collaborative team focused on 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 to make a real impact through insightful, creative communications.

As a Communications Specialist, you will assist in planning, creating, editing, and implementing project‑specific communication approaches and materials for both enterprise and marketplace audiences across all channels—including paid, earned, shared, and owned media. You will play a key role in designing, developing, and delivering impactful communications that bring Zurich’s brand to life and support strategic priorities.

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.
• Develop and deliver engaging content for web, social media, and intranet platforms, ensuring alignment with Zurich’s brand, key messages, and content strategy.
• 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.
• Support 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 and current affairs to inform communication strategies and ensure relevance.
• 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 Equivalent7+ 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 relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in public relations or communications agency.
• Experience leveraging AI and communications technology to enhance strategic recommendations and increase productivity.
• Demonstrated ability to automate and streamline routine communications tasks.
• Insurance and/or vertical industry acumen (construction, energy, life sciences, manufacturing).
• Experience using media relations and web analytics tools such as Cision and Google Analytics.
• Strong analytical mindset with experience in competitive insights and crisis prediction.
• Experience identifying issue‑management situations and supporting response strategies.
• Proven media relations skills, including pitching to outlets and building journalist relationships.
• Proven copywriting skills (writing test will be assigned during interview).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and excellent organizational skills.

Additional Requirements

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

Compensation

Salary range: $64,600.00 – $105,900.00 with a 10% short‑term incentive bonus. Compensation is influenced by location, role, skill set, and experience.

Benefits

Zurich provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement plans, and additional rewards such as short‑term incentive bonuses and merit increases.

Location

Schaumburg, IL (Hybrid – at least 3 days onsite per week)

Employment Details

Full‑time, No sponsorship offered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Zurich maintains a policy of equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Recruiting Note

Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Resumes will become the property of Zurich American Insurance.