Director of Communications at Jack Link's Protein Snacks Minneapolis, MN

Director of Communications job at Jack Link's Protein Snacks. Minneapolis, MN.

Running with Sasquatch is more than just a clever marketing campaign. As a Jack Link’s team member, Running with Sasquatch means we roll up our buffalo plaid sleeves and do the hard work first. We don’t shy away from challenges. In fact, we push hard and take risks. True to our North Woods roots, we're a bunch of ordinary people who accomplish extraordinary things by driving results with innovation, creativity and a clear sense of urgency. Like our awesome protein products, we have an unwavering passion for quality, and you won’t find anything artificial here. What you see is what you get… authentic, humble and fun people who Run with Sasquatch!

Running with Sasquatch takes a team. We invite you to run with us, succeed with us, and celebrate with us. Most importantly, Feed Your Wild Side with us on our journey to be the dominant global leader of branded protein snacks!

Jack Link's Protein Snacks is a global leader in snacking and the No. 1 meat snack manufacturer worldwide. Still family-owned and operated with headquarters in Minong, Wisconsin, Jack Link’s also has a large corporate hub in Downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, and operates a total of 11 manufacturing and distribution facilities in four countries. Jack Link’s produces high-quality, great-tasting protein snacks that feed the wild sides of consumers around the world. Jack Link's Protein Snacks family of brands includes Jack Link's, Lorissa's Kitchen, World Kitchens Jerky, Bifi and Peperami.

Job Description
The Director of Communications will serve as Link Snacks’ strategic communications lead, responsible for developing and executing internal and external communication programs that strengthen the company's reputation, enhance Team Member engagement, and support business objectives. The ideal candidate is a strategic doer with an entrepreneurial spirit and established media relationships.

The responsibilities of this position shall consist of, but not be limited to, the following:

Strategic Development

Develop an integrated communication strategy that aligns with Link Snacks’ business goals and reinforces the company's distinctive brand portfolio

Create measurable objectives for communication initiatives and regularly report on progress

External Communications

Develop and execute a comprehensive, always-on media relations program to secure favorable coverage in key industry, business, and consumer publications

Develop, write, pitch and place compelling content that showcases Link Snacks’ innovations, culture, philanthropy, sustainability and brand stories

Manage media lists, press release distribution and PR newsroom

Build relationships with industry influencers, thought leaders, and key stakeholders

Manage company award submissions – identify award opportunities and write compelling submissions

Lead philanthropic communications strategy and execution, as well as ongoing sustainability communications

Direct digital communications for Link Snacks including authoring content for company websites and social media platforms, assuring digital communications align with the overall company messaging and brand guidelines

Internal Communications

Develop and implement strategies that connect Team Members to Link Snacks’ mission, values, and business objectives

Foster collaboration with operations, HR, and other departments to maximize communication effectiveness

Lead the development of engaging content that fosters a unified company culture across all locations

Establish feedback mechanisms to measure Team Member engagement and understand information needs

Lead, coach, engage and professionally develop team member(s)

Crisis Management

Develop comprehensive crisis communication protocols and response frameworks

Lead communication efforts during crises to protect the company's reputation

Train executives and key stakeholders on crisis communication best practices

Brand Integration and Amplification

Support the IAT and global brand teams in amplifying partnerships, experiential activations, and brand marketing campaigns through earned media

Partner with brand teams to ideate story opportunities – building PR materials, writing press releases and actively pitching stories to relevant media

Manage communications with key stakeholders to ensure proper execution of PR programs

Performs other duties and responsibilities as necessary

Qualifications
Required Education:

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field or equivalent

Required Experience:

10+ years of progressive experience in corporate communications, public relations, or related fields

Experience in the food/CPG industry strongly preferred

Track record of developing strategic communication programs that drive measurable business results

Experience managing both internal and external communications functions

Proven ability to multitask, prioritize multiple demands, and work both high and low

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to craft compelling narratives

Strong executive presence and ability to influence at all levels of the organization

Ability to pitch and grow relationships with relevant press and influencers across verticals/content pillars

Strategic thinker with excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Experience with crisis management and reputation protection

Understanding of digital communication channels and emerging media platforms

Ability to translate complex business information into clear, engaging content

Collaborative working style with proven success building relationships across functions

Established media relationships

JACK LINK’S CORE VALUES:

Be Real, Speed Matters, Stewardship, Relationship Driven, Self-Discipline, and Show Awesome Character.

Additional Information
The salary range for this role is $159,100 - $218,790 (Annually). Actual salaries will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to external market data, internal equity, location, and candidate skill set and experience. Base pay is just one component of Jack Link’s Total Rewards package for Team Members. Other rewards may include annual incentive and program-specific awards. Jack Link’s provides a variety of benefits to eligible Team Members, including medical, dental and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, 401k participation, paid holidays, and paid time off.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: Jack Link’s provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by federal, state or local law.

E-VERIFY: Jack Link’s is participant in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For information about the E-Verify program, please visit: All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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