what is a communications manager?
A communications manager is an expert in all corporate messaging and marketing channels, ensuring brand consistency and strategic outreach. They oversee internal and external communications, review press materials, and lead communication teams to maintain a positive public image. This role requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, leadership abilities, and the capacity to manage crisis communications when necessary.
what does a communications manager do?
A communications manager ensures that all messaging aligns with the company’s brand identity and strategic objectives. They oversee internal announcements, public relations efforts, and external communications, working closely with executives to shape the company’s reputation. In fast-paced environments, they must quickly adapt to crises and media inquiries while maintaining brand integrity. In larger organizations, they may focus on strategy and high-level messaging, whereas in smaller companies, they are more hands-on with content creation.
Would a career as a communications manager suit your strategic thinking and leadership skills? Keep reading to explore key responsibilities, salary expectations, and career paths.
see available jobsaverage communications manager salary
According to recent data, the average salary for a communications manager in the United States ranges between $75,000 and $95,000 per year. Salaries vary based on industry, experience, and location. Entry-level professionals may start at $65,000, while those with extensive experience in high-demand sectors can earn upwards of $120,000 annually.
ways to boost your salary as a communications manager
Several factors influence salary levels, including:
- Experience: Senior professionals earn higher salaries due to their expertise in crisis management, media relations, and strategic planning.
- Location: Salaries are typically higher in major metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., where corporate communications roles are in greater demand.
- Industry: Communications managers in finance, tech, and healthcare often earn more than those in nonprofits or education.
- Company Size: Large multinational corporations tend to offer higher salaries and better benefits compared to small businesses or startups.
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access our tooltypes of heads of communications
Different industries and organizations require communications managers with specialized skills. Some common roles include:
- Corporate Communications Manager: Manages company-wide messaging, internal communications, and reputation management.
- Public Relations Manager: Focuses on media relations, crisis communication, and brand reputation.
- Marketing Communications Manager: Oversees advertising campaigns, social media strategy, and digital communications.
- Internal Communications Manager: Ensures clear and effective communication within an organization, improving employee engagement.
- Crisis Communications Manager: Develops strategies to handle public relations crises and mitigate reputational risks.
working as a communications manager
As a communications manager, your responsibilities may include:
- Developing communication strategies: Creating a comprehensive messaging plan aligned with company goals.
- Reviewing press materials: Approving and refining press releases, speeches, and internal announcements.
- Overseeing digital communications: Managing website content, social media platforms, and online brand presence.
- Crisis management: Handling public relations crises and implementing damage control strategies.
- Planning corporate events: Organizing press conferences, media briefings, and internal town halls.
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communications manager job description
Some of the tasks of the communications manager include:
- building a communications plan: as the communications manager, you are in charge of developing the communications strategy for the company. Your job is to plan the objectives of the company's communication strategy and editorial calendar and determine the best channels for disseminating information. You create the policy that determines the messaging guidelines and information to provide the customer. You also develop key performance indicators for measuring the success of the communication efforts.
- reviewing newsletters and press releases: as the communications manager, you supervise all internal and external communications channels. That means you have to write press releases, newsletters and brochures or review content written by the communications team to ensure it resonates with the brand message. You also approve all media-related documents.
- monitoring the company's digital platforms: as the communications manager, you need to oversee the content on digital platforms managed by the company. You must check the website and social media accounts to ensure the content aligns with established brand guidelines.
- formulating a company's messaging guidelines: as the communications manager, you are responsible for the branding guidelines. You determine the tone and values that the company should represent. When developing a good brand message, all sales materials and digital marketing channels should follow the company's values and vision.
- planning and coordinating public events: as the head of corporate communications, you are in charge of any press briefings the company plans. You prepare the materials and ensure the stakeholders are informed of the press conference. If the company is hosting a panel discussion, you are the spokesperson for the company. You also coordinate conferences for the communication teams and plan public events.
- preparing crisis management procedures: when the company faces a public relations crisis, you need to have a plan to handle the press. You also regulate information inflow and outflow during the crisis to minimize its impact.
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work environment
Communications managers typically work in office settings within corporate headquarters, PR firms, or marketing agencies. The role involves frequent collaboration with executives, marketing teams, and external media contacts. While some tasks can be completed remotely, in-person meetings, press events, and networking are common.
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who are your colleagues?
As a communications manager, you will collaborate closely with public relations specialists, digital marketers, corporate executives, and content strategists, working alongside marketing directors, sales teams, HR professionals, and senior leadership to ensure brand messaging is consistent and impactful across all channels. Your role also involves liaising with journalists, media outlets, and external agencies to manage public relations efforts effectively.
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work schedule
Most communications managers work 40-50 hours per week, primarily during standard business hours. However, additional hours may be required for crisis communications, major corporate announcements, or media appearances. Press briefings and events often take place outside regular office hours, requiring flexibility.
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job outlook
When you are the communications manager, you are a senior-level manager in the company involved in strategic decisions. In some companies, you perform the roles of the communications director or the vice president of communications. However, in large companies, you report to the vice president of communications. You can also progress to be the chief executive officer. Consultancy opportunities are available when you have many years of experience.
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advantages of finding a quality engineer job through randstad
Finding your communications manager job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a communications manager is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
communications manager skills and education
- Bachelor’s Degree: A degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or marketing is typically required.
- Master’s Degree (Optional): Advanced degrees in business communication or strategic marketing can enhance career prospects.
skills and competencies
- Excellent Written and Verbal Communication: Strong storytelling and message delivery skills.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to craft effective messaging strategies aligned with business goals.
- Crisis Management: Handling high-pressure situations and public relations challenges.
- Digital Media Proficiency: Experience with social media, content management systems, and online branding.
- Team Leadership: Managing communication teams and cross-departmental collaboration.
FAQs
FAQs about working as a communications manager
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what is the role of the communications manager?
A communications manager oversees a company’s messaging strategy, ensuring internal and external communications align with the brand’s mission and reputation goals.
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what makes a good communications manager?
Strong leadership, adaptability, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills are essential for success in this role.
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how do you become a communication head?
A bachelor's degree in communication, public relations, or marketing is required, along with several years of experience in corporate communications or public relations.
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who reports to the communications manager?
Industries such as finance, healthcare, technology, government, and media often seek communications managers to handle public relations and brand messaging.
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how do I apply for a communications manager vacancy?
Search our job listings and submit your application today! If you don’t see an open position that fits, upload your resume, and we’ll connect you with future opportunities.
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