2390 communications manager jobs found

everything you need to know about communications managers.

Effective, targeted and strategic communication is a key success factor for organizations. A company’s ability to communicate with their employees, stakeholders, business partners and customers can have a big impact on the bottom line. Communications managers take on the challenging role of shaping and communicating a company’s messaging to internal and external recipients. Working collaboratively with a variety of internal departments and key decision makers, you will draft communications, presentations and scripts. You will need to be a strong public speaker and top quality communicator.

average communications manager salaries in the U.S.

Median communications manager salaries in the U.S. is slightly more than $65,000. At the low end of the salary range, you can expect to make $44,000 per year. At the top end of the salary range, you can make up to $90,000 or more. Performance bonuses and other incentives may also be included in your compensation package. Experience with web content management, strategic planning and corporate communications can help increase earning potential. 

what communications manager jobs entail

Communications managers tend to work within the communications or marketing department. You will spend your day balancing meetings, interacting with the media, collaborating with senior managers and working on a computer. Expect travel and frequent trips outside of the office to be part of your job. Depending on the company structure, you could report to a VP of communications, VP of marketing or other company executive. Working outside of traditional office hours is common, especially when tight deadlines need to be met, new campaigns are launched and when your company is getting media attention. 

your day-to-day tasks

Your day-to-day tasks will largely be determined by the strategic direction of the company. Expect to spend your time going between internal and external communications matters. Some of the responsibilities that will be included in your role are as follows:

• keeping employees and stakeholders informed about company news and developments
• creating press releases
• preparing presentations, emails, memos and documents to update employees
• creating print materials and advertising 
• managing marketing and PR staff
• acting as the company spokesperson
• arranging interviews and securing news stories for product releases
• increasing employee awareness and engagement
• interacting with local and national media
• assisting with company branding and brand awareness
• supporting marketing initiatives
• creating press kits and promotional materials
• working collaboratively with key decision makers

where you can work

Communications manager roles are most commonly found in health care, education, government agencies and nonprofits and with large businesses or corporations. Roles are also available with marketing and advertising agencies. In terms of location, communications managers frequently find opportunities in larger cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. . 

what you bring to the table

Communications managers need to be well versed in marketing, business, technology and communications. Here are some of the main skills hiring companies are looking for in candidates:

• corporate communications
• public relations and media relations
• advertising and marketing
• strategic planning
• good research skills
• strong leadership skills, the ability to manage people
• strong oral, written and digital communications skills
• social media management
• web content management 
• strong copywriting skills

training and certifications

Communications managers and professionals are required to have a bachelor’s degree in communication, public relations, marketing or other related areas of study. Most communications manager positions require either a post-secondary degree specializing in corporate or strategic communications, or a proven track record of success in the industry. Being a member of communications professional associations and having certifications in marketing or communications is an asset. 

where your career is headed

With experience working in communications, public relations and marketing, depending on your specific career path, communications managers can work in a variety of roles. It’s common for communications managers to move into marketing management roles, public relations roles and eventually move up to director roles in marketing and communications. With a number of years of experience and a track record of success, communications managers could also move into a consulting role or open a communications and publicity agency. 

Do you work in communications? Looking to take a step up into a communications manager role? Are you currently a communications manager and are seeking new career opportunities? We can help! Randstad USA can help you find great jobs with leading companies. Contact us today!

Is your organization looking to add a communications manager to your team? Get access to top candidates with the qualifications you are looking for by contacting Randstad USA today.