Director of Communications

Responsibilities

• Lead Security Thought Leadership Strategy
• Develop and drive Microsoft Security's thought leadership strategy across cybersecurity, AI security and more.
• Identify opportunities for Microsoft to shape industry dialogue and proactively contribute to key conversations influencing customers, industry partners, media, creators in the security community, and industry stakeholders.
• Partner with executives and subject matter experts to create differentiated narratives grounded in customer impact, innovation, and market relevance.
• Advise senior leaders on communications strategies that strengthen Microsoft's reputation and visibility on trust security – in proactive and reactive moments.
• Executive Communications & Influence
• Serve as a trusted communications advisor to senior security executives and business leaders.
• Develop executive visibility strategies spanning media, speaking engagements, social platforms, industry events, and thought leadership opportunities.
• Drive executive messaging, talking points, keynote content, bylined articles, social content, briefing materials, and strategic narratives.
• Anticipate emerging issues, industry trends, and opportunities that require executive engagement and communications leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field AND 6+ years communications, public relations, journalism, public affairs, executive communications, or related experience
• OR equivalent experience.
• 1+ year(s) people management experience.

Preferred

• 5+ years of dedicated cybersecurity experience in product categories or disciplines such as endpoint security, anti-malware, identity, threat intelligence, vulnerability management, data protection
• 3+ years of people-management experience, including leading teams, coaching employees, supporting their success, and fostering learning and growth.
• Deep understanding of the media, analyst, and influencer landscape.
• Proven experience advising and building trust with senior executives and driving strategic communications programs in complex organizations.
• Demonstrated success developing thought leadership initiatives and shaping external narratives.
• Exceptional storytelling, writing, editing, and presentation skills.
• Experience leading cross-functional initiatives and influencing stakeholders.
• Experience applying AI to communications tasks: Drafting content, measuring impact, analyzing coverage, communications planning
• Experience with international communications planning and execution – working with PR teammates and agencies, across regions
• Crisis communications experience