Company Description

We focus on the moments that matter most—high-stakes issues where how an event is managed can have lasting repercussions on stakeholders’ trust and reputation. You get an A-team of seasoned communicators developing the strategy, doing the critical work, and delivering results with an eye to value.

Arena is a global communications advisory firm, founded in 2021, with headquarters in New York City and a presence in San Francisco. Our team comprises communications veterans who have led high-profile engagements across various industries and geographies, both in-house and as consultants.

Position summary

Arena is seeking an associate to support partners, directors, and senior associates across transactions, profile-raising assignments, crises, litigation and other situations critical to clients.

The associate will be an excellent written communicator who is highly organized, intellectually curious about business, policy, and current events, and able to manage multiple fast-moving assignments. The role is suited to a candidate seeking to develop communications expertise in a collaborative, high-performance environment.

The associate will have exposure to senior executive clients and legal, financial or regulatory stakeholders and will support strategic communications work in time-sensitive and high-pressure situations.

Responsibilities

Client support and execution

• Support day-to-day client work by coordinating tasks, tracking deadlines and ensuring high-quality execution.
• Draft and edit communications materials, including communications plans, talking points, question-and-answer documents, media backgrounders, statements and materials for journalist interviews.
• Assist with client onboarding, call preparation, meeting notes and follow-up materials.
• Support the execution of communications with media, investors, employees and regulators, including assistance with announcement and event logistics as needed.

Research and Analysis

• Conduct research on fast-moving situations with tight deadlines, including media coverage, market activity, policy developments and stakeholder reactions.
• Synthesize information into clear summaries and draft analysis to inform senior team members’ recommendations.

Firm and practice support

• Contribute to internal projects, operational processes and business development support. 
• Assist with the marketing of the firm and Arena marketing events. 
• Help maintain internal research materials, media lists and institutional knowledge.

Team collaboration

• Work closely with partners, directors and senior associates to support client deliverables and internal priorities.
• Participate in firmwide training, learning and professional development initiatives.

Key requirements

Experience and education

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, English, business, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of relevant professional experience in communications, consulting, professional services, journalism, public affairs or a related field.
• Demonstrated interest in communications, public affairs, business and current events.
• Experience working in or alongside professional services, financial institutions, law firms or regulated environments is a plus.
• Strong undergraduate academic performance, with a preference for candidates with writing-intensive coursework.

Skills and core competencies

• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to distill complex information clearly and concisely.
• Organization and responsiveness: Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Judgment: Demonstrates sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive information.
• Curiosity and initiative: Eager to learn, ask questions and take ownership of assigned work.
• Media awareness: Familiarity with the news cycle and how reporters cover business, policy and legal issues.
• Interpersonal effectiveness: Works effectively on small teams and communicates clearly with colleagues and clients.

Arena provides full-time employees with comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage and offers a 401(k) plan with a company match. Learn more at https://arenaadvisorygroup.com.

Annual salary range

$70,000 to $95,000, with a generous annual company bonus.