About the Job
The Senior Manager plays a strategic leadership role at Newlink, managing key client accounts and leading integrated crisis and reputation campaigns for diverse stakeholders. This professional develops strategic communication programs, manages complex issues, and leverages digital and social media to strengthen client reputations and support business objectives. The role also contributes to new business development, financial growth, and the overall direction of the practice area. As a leader, the Senior Manager mentors teams, fosters collaboration and excellence, and builds trusted relationships with clients and key stakeholders.
Responsibilities
Client Leadership & Strategy
- Lead strategic communications, crisis management, and reputation campaigns for high-profile clients
- Serve as the senior client lead, ensuring exceptional service, quality execution, and alignment with client objectives
- Develop integrated communication strategies, stakeholder engagement plans, media relations, executive messaging, and media training initiatives
- Provide strategic counsel across the Reputation business dimension to strengthen client reputation and visibility
- Identify reputational risks and develop proactive crisis and issues management plans
Business Development & Operations
- Drive organic account growth, cross-selling opportunities, and new business development.
- Develop proposals, maintain business pipelines, and support revenue and profitability goals.
- Oversee account performance, project execution, budgets, timelines, and operational excellence.
- Strengthen methodologies, processes, and partnerships to enhance client deliverables and efficiencies.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop multidisciplinary teams while fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence, ensuring quality standards, professional growth, and ethical business conduct.
Skills
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to lead teams by example, inspire talent, and foster collaboration.
- Strategic and entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to identify opportunities and apply strategic methodologies to complex client challenges.
- Strong business acumen, sound judgment, and advanced problem-solving capabilities.
- Proactive, self-driven, resilient, and resourceful, with high standards of excellence and a strong work ethic.
- Proven ability to build trusted relationships with clients, senior management, media, and key stakeholders.
- Excellent project and people management skills, including mentoring, coaching, and talent development.
- Strong writing, facilitation, consulting, proposal development, and presentation skills for senior executive audiences.
- Deep understanding of crisis communications, reputation management, social media, and the digital landscape.
- Established relationships with national media and influencers, with strong business development capabilities.
- In-depth knowledge of client industries and the ability to deliver strategic, results-oriented counsel.
Experience & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree is required; preferably a master’s degree in communications, business or a related area of expertise.
- 7–10 years of relevant experience. years of experience, preferably in professional services firms, journalism, public relations, communications, or related fields.
- Experience in Public Affairs a plus
- Knowledge of professional practices within a services/consulting firm, journalism, public relations, communications, or related fields.
- Specific knowledge of an industry or specialized area (such as healthcare, technology, or investor relations).