Director, Crisis Comms
About the Company
FTI Consulting is the leading global expert firm for organizations facing crisis and transformation. We work with many of the world’s top multinational corporations, law firms, banks and private equity firms on their most important issues to deliver impact that makes a difference. From resolving disputes, navigating crises, managing risk and optimizing performance, our teams respond rapidly to dynamic and complex situations.
At FTI Consulting, you’ll work side-by side with leaders who have shaped history, helping solve the biggest challenges making headlines today. From day one, you’ll be an integral part of a focused team where you can make a real impact. You’ll be surrounded by an open, collaborative culture that embraces diversity, recognition, professional development and, most importantly, you.
About the Job
As a Director on the Crisis & Litigation Communications team, you will take an active role in developing and managing communications strategies for clients to a variety of matters, including crises, crisis preparedness, sensitive corporate announcements, operational incidents, government investigations and litigation support, among other sensitive, sometimes urgent situations. A successful Director will be comfortable acting with autonomy when it comes to leading client accounts whilst easily assimilating into larger account teams as well. This role requires excellent project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Additionally, it requires knowledge of and interest in media, legal and financial issues, as well as a willingness to learn, the ability to be agile in a fast-paced environment, and a team-first attitude. The Director must have experience managing and mentoring junior talent, with the ability to provide meaningful feedback and coaching. A Director will also positively contribute to team culture and be a listening ear, an encourager, a role model, and an advocate for early career professionals.
Responsibilities
The Director serves as a project manager and client counselor, supporting client engagements that span a variety of Crisis & Litigation Communications disciplines. As a Director, you will manage the development and execution of multi-faceted crisis communications programs, and serve as a dependable leader and mentor. Responsibilities will include, but will not be limited to, the following:
Manage multiple client projects and workstreams, including coordinating project rollouts and ensuring objectives are achieved and deadlines are met
Develop strategic proposals and communications plans for clients and new business prospects
Serve as a primary client contact, representing the team in client meetings, conference calls
Provide real-time client guidance virtually or in person with the client
Draft client materials (or review junior team deliverables where appropriate), including communications for key stakeholders, FAQs and media statements, among others
Plan for likely outcomes and develop corresponding communications strategies
Anticipate client and team needs, concerns or potentially difficult situations, working proactively with senior leaders to address them
Manage utilization and staffing on multiple projects and accounts
Actively participate in the generation of new business proposals and presentations
Demonstrate a willingness to take responsibility for outcomes and to assist others when needed
Foster talent management and the mentoring of junior team members
Embody behaviors consistent with FTI’s values and Code of Ethics and Business Conduct
Manage profitability and utilization on multiple projects and accounts
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, English, or related business field
5+ years of relevant professional experience in crisis communications, issues management, litigation and/or corporate communications
Ability to work under pressing deadlines across multiple projects and portray calm in the face of difficult situations to clients and other team members
Track record of managing communications with multiple stakeholders (investors, employees, customers, media, etc.) during a crisis events and developing strategic communications plans
Excellent organizational, written and verbal presentation skills
Strong work ethic, attention to detail and a service-oriented attitude
Expert in Microsoft programs (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Teams)
Travel required to clients and to FTI office(s)
Flexible work hours as needed to meet urgent crisis and client demands
Ability to thrive in a fast-moving team environment, with proven ability to manage both up and down to more senior and junior colleagues, alike
Preferred Qualifications:
Ability to advise and secure confidence of senior communications and C-level client contacts, as well as other outside legal and financial advisors
Proven project management track record and comfort managing and working with staff at all levels
Prior client service, consulting or agency experience
Prior media relations experience, including developing and executing media strategies intended to mitigate or balance negative coverage, as well as raise awareness
Proven track record in crisis preparedness, including assessing clients’ state of readiness and potential risks, designing crisis management plans and crisis communications strategies, and conducting crisis tabletop and simulation exercises is
