External Communications Manager

at  McDonalds

Company Description:
At McDonald’s, we are committed to being the best, and that starts with finding the best people. We have built a team of extraordinary people from around the world. We are problem solvers, risk takers, innovators, and thought leaders that take our work seriously, but have fun doing it. We challenge ourselves to get smarter and sharper every day, we value personal and professional growth, and believe in rewarding and celebrating our successes.
Job Description:
Position title: External Communications Manager
Department: Canada Impact
Position band: Consultant (Global Grade 3)
Reports to: Senior Manager, External Campaigns and Programs
Type of position: Full-time, Permanent

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

This is an unparalleled opportunity to join a winning organization where you will have exposure across all levels of the organization, from your team members to executives and cross functional business units. You are looking for a company with a winning culture where you can grow in depth and breadth while making a tangible impact on central initiatives. In addition to leading proactive external communications campaigns and activations, you will also support in the mitigation and management of external issues and crises.

Qualifications:

• McDonald’s brand fan
• Bachelor’s degree or postgraduate certificate in communications-related field
• Minimum 6+ years’ experience in communications with a focus on external communications
• In-depth knowledge of the fast-paced media landscape, including a strong understanding of the influence of social media and digital platforms
• Well organized, strong project management skills; ability to prioritize and manage competing deadlines
• Ability to influence and collaborate with senior leadership and cross functional teams
• Excellent oral and written communication skills combined with an in-depth understanding of public relations principles and practices
• Expertise in crafting communication materials into relevant, timely and engaging story narratives.
• On the record media relations experience and experiencing managing agency (or similar) partners
• Adept at navigating media issues and crises for brands
• Experience with modern methods for measuring communications impact
• A team player with a good attitude and a desire to collaborate as part of an integrated team, while also being independent.
• Ability to travel within Canada, when required (approx. <15%)
• Ability to read and write in French would be an asse

In addition to following McDonald’s policies and procedures, principal accountabilities include, but are not limited to:

• Develop, lead and manage proactive, integrated external communication strategies that drive positive awareness of the McDonald’s brand
• Provide strategic counsel to leadership and key departments regarding external announcements, engagements, message development etc.
• Support in managing McDonald’s PR Agency to ensure delivery of plan
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, influencers, and key internal stakeholders
• Collaborate closely with the broader Canada Impact Team, as well as the North American Impact Team, to ensure integration of all external communications activities
• Manage and respond to media inquiries for McDonald’s Canada, acting as a spokesperson where required
• Implement communications processes to measure campaign effectiveness and year-end reporting purposes
• Triage and manage media response strategy on restaurant-level as well as national brand media issues
• Support the Canada Impact Team and McDonald’s Canada business on issues/ crises management files where required

Qualifications:

• McDonald’s brand fan
• Bachelor’s degree or postgraduate certificate in communications-related field
• Minimum 6+ years’ experience in communications with a focus on external communications
• In-depth knowledge of the fast-paced media landscape, including a strong understanding of the influence of social media and digital platforms
• Well organized, strong project management skills; ability to prioritize and manage competing deadlines
• Ability to influence and collaborate with senior leadership and cross functional teams
• Excellent oral and written communication skills combined with an in-depth understanding of public relations principles and practices
• Expertise in crafting communication materials into relevant, timely and engaging story narratives.
• On the record media relations experience and experiencing managing agency (or similar) partners
• Adept at navigating media issues and crises for brands
• Experience with modern methods for measuring communications impact
• A team player with a good attitude and a desire to collaborate as part of an integrated team, while also being independent.
• Ability to travel within Canada, when required (approx. <15%)
• Ability to read and write in French would be an asset

Additional Information:
McDonald’s Canada and Owner/Operators are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace for all. Our workplaces have a long-standing policy of providing fair, equitable, and accessible opportunities for all employees and prospective employees. Accommodations during the application process are available upon request.