Communications & PR Sr Specialist
Chicago, IL (Hybrid)
Posted 2 months ago
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Job Description
COMPANY OVERVIEW
Jenner & Block LLP is a law firm with a fearless reputation and global reach, high-level problem solvers in litigation, government controversies, investigations, regulatory challenges, and complex corporate transactions. With offices in Century City, Chicago, London, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Washington, DC, the firm represents a wide range of clients, counseling Fortune 100 companies, large privately held corporations, major nonprofits, top universities, private equity investors, and Native American tribes. Consistently recognized as a firm that stands up for its values with its commitment to justice and community service, Jenner has been named the No. 1 pro bono firm 13 times in the United States by The American Lawyer.
POSTION SUMMARY
Reporting to the Chief Communications Officer and working collaboratively with the Department's Leadership Team, the Sr Specialist will help drive a talented team of communications professionals as part of a pioneering model in the legal industry — a fully dedicated Communications department operating independently at the firm level. In this role, they will act as a trusted advisor to lawyers and professional staff, co-manage the effective running of and delivery on communication initiatives, and cultivate meaningful relationships with media, colleagues, and vendors.
Specifically, the Senior Specialist will lead communications and public relations efforts for several leading litigation practices and industry groups, including Media and Entertainment, Consumer Brands, Sports and Gaming, and AI/Technology. They will also provide communications support to highlight and elevate the firm’s nationally recognized pro bono work.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Work with lawyers to identify, develop, and implement communications activities—media interviews, thought leadership, speaking engagements, events, etc.—that support the firm’s mission to be the best at what we do, a great place to work, and a significant contributor to our communities.
- Build and maintain relationships with journalists at key media outlets. Create opportunities to connect partners with key journalists. Prepare lawyers for interviews.
- Draft and edit press releases, talking points, firm memos, bylines, and other communications collaterals.
- Draft and edit content for the firm’s website, intranet, internal communications, and other channels.
- Help design and implement social media campaigns to elevate the firm and its brand.
- Collaborate with and manage external PR consultants and ensure all activities meet firm standards and objectives.
- Support planning and execution of integrated communications and marketing campaigns.
- Support inclusion efforts and promote pro bono work.
- Manage special projects and other public relations initiatives.
- Help manage submissions process for awards, including for individual lawyers, the firm, and specific practice areas.
- Work collaboratively with the firm’s relationship partners to assist in the profile raising of in- house counsel at our clients.
- Manage the placement process for byline articles.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in a communications or marketing-related field.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of communications or equivalent experience. Candidates with legal industry experience or a journalism background is strongly preferred.
- Experience working in professional services preferred.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Advanced knowledge of social media platforms.
- Attention to detail, proofreading, and accuracy are key in this role.
Disclaimer
Additional Duties
This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the primary duties and responsibilities for the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all tasks or responsibilities that may be assigned. The role may include additional duties, specialized projects, and other tasks as required. The firm reserves the right to modify or adjust the responsibilities to meet business needs.
Physical Requirements
Candidates must be able to meet the physical demands of the position, including the ability to commute to the office as required on designated in-office days based on the position. The firm is committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for qualified individuals with disabilities.
EEO Statement
Jenner & Block LLP is an equal opportunity employer. Recruitment and employment decisions are not made on the basis of an individual’s race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability or medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity and/or expression, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions, arrest record, matriculation, personal appearance, political affiliation, marital, parental, veteran, military, or order of protection status, or any other protected status or that of their relatives, friends, or associates.
Jenner & Block is proud to offer a competitive total rewards package, including comprehensive health & well-being benefits and 401k profit sharing. The anticipated pay range for this role is $77,000 - $110,000 in Chicago.
The actual offered rate for this position will be determined based on several factors, including qualifications and experience, geographic location, education, external market data, and consideration of internal equity.
At Jenner & Block, we shape what’s next through experience, vision, and judgment. In the most sensitive and consequential matters our clients face, we advocate fearlessly and are known for finding a clear path forward. Whether an opportunity or challenge, we combine diverse and extensive experience with original, creative thinking to help our clients stay ahead of an ever-changing landscape. Our commitment is to work as partners to define what comes next for you and your business, and to get there together.Founded in 1914, Jenner & Block is an internationally recognized powerhouse with more than 500 lawyers across the United States and United Kingdom, and market leading Litigation, Investigations, Transactional, and Government Strategies practices. Our foundation is one of shared values: a commitment to integrity and professionalism, an eye towards a brighter future, and a tireless pursuit of justice. Throughout our history, we have shaped the direction of law, business, and policy—from Witherspoon to Watergate, Lehman to Lawrence, Guantanamo to GM’s IPO. And we continue to shape today’s greatest legal battles–from DACA to Dobbs, energy transitions to voting rights, data security to national security. Whether it is as champions for civil rights and social justice, or through our deep commitment to pro bono, and civic engagement, or through the impact work we do for our clients every day, we embrace our role in shaping a brighter future for our people, our clients, and our communities.Content may include attorney advertising.
