Director / Sr. Director of Strategic Communications & Thought Leadership

ABOUT THE ROLEAs the Director of Strategic Communications and Thought Leadership, you will lead Simbe’s external communications strategy, managing analyst relations, public and media relations, and thought leadership initiatives. You will play a pivotal role in positioning Simbe as a leader in retail technology, AI, and automation, driving visibility through compelling storytelling and strategic engagements. Your deep understanding of the retail technology landscape, coupled with your expertise in AI and robotics, will enable you to communicate Simbe’s impact to C-suite executives and key industry stakeholders. In this role, you will develop and execute strategies that elevate Simbe’s brand, ensuring consistency across global markets while navigating media opportunities, influencer partnerships, and crisis management. This position requires a seasoned communications professional with exceptional writing skills, a strategic mindset, and proven leadership in driving thought leadership in complex, technology-driven industries.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Corporate Communications: Manage all internal and external corporate messaging, including executive communications and crisis communications, to ensure consistency and alignment with the company’s mission and values.
• Stakeholder Communications: Manage communications with key stakeholders, including investors, partners, and customers, to ensure they are kept informed about the company’s progress, vision, and achievements.
• Analyst Relations: Build and maintain relationships with industry analysts to ensure the company’s solutions and strategy are well-represented in key reports and evaluations. This includes managing briefings, inquiries, and coordinating input for analyst reports.
• Influencer Relations: Develop and manage relationships with key industry influencers, bloggers, and consultants to expand the company’s influence through third-party endorsements and collaborations.
• Public and Media Relations: Develop and execute a media relations strategy to increase visibility through earned media, with assistance from our trusted agency. This includes managing relationships with journalists, pitching stories, responding to media inquiries, and positioning the company as a leader in our industry.
• Thought Leadership: Own the strategy and execution of amplifying Simbe’s voice as an industry leader with high-impact thought leadership across respected digital platforms and industry conferences, panels, and events.
• TOFU Content Strategy: Lead the development of top-of-funnel (TOFU) content across various platforms that supports thought leadership and enhances the company’s brand – and partner closely with product marketing to define handoffs to MOFU and BOFU content. This includes the creation of byline articles, blogs, case studies, white papers, and video content.
• Executive Visibility Programs: Create a program to increase the visibility of key executives through interviews, speaking engagements, and public appearances to enhance their profile and the company’s thought leadership position.
• Event Speaking Engagements: Partner with events marketing to identify and secure opportunities to speak at industry events, conferences, and panels to elevate Simbe’s profile and position its leaders as experts in the field.
• Awards and Recognition: Manage the process of applying for and promoting relevant industry awards, to enhance Simbe’s reputation and validate its market position.
• Crisis Management: Plan for and manage communications in the event of a crisis that could impact Simbe’s reputation. This includes drafting responses, managing the flow of information, and working with media outlets to shape the narrative.
• Reputation Management: Implement strategies to monitor, manage, and improve the company’s reputation in the industry and with the public through proactive communications and response tactics.
• Social Media Strategy: Craft and execute a strategy to boost engagement on social media platforms, partnering closely with ABM, events, and product marketing. The goal is to amplify media coverage, engage target audiences, and enhance thought leadership through social channels.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• Exceptional Writing and Storytelling Skills: The ability to craft compelling narratives across various formats—media pitches, thought leadership articles, social content, and executive speeches.
• Strategic Thinking: The ability to develop and execute communications strategies that align with business objectives, particularly around the intersection of retail technology and innovation.
• Influencing and Negotiation Skills: Confidence and capability in working with senior executives and external partners to advance the company’s narrative and visibility.
• Media Savvy and Industry Connections: Strong relationships with key journalists, influencers, and analysts in the retail technology, AI, and automation spaces.
• Analytical and Data-Driven Mindset: Experience using data and analytics to measure communications effectiveness and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Leadership and Team Management: Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, foster collaboration, and mentor junior staff members.
• Deep Understanding of Retail Executive Mindsets: In-depth knowledge of what is top of mind for senior retail executives—such as profitability, efficiency, customer experience, and how emerging technologies can address these challenges.
• Understanding of the Competitive Landscape: Knowledge of Simbe’s competitors and the broader trends in retail technology, AI, and automation.
• Familiarity with Industry Events and Networks: Active involvement in retail technology conferences, panels, and networking groups, allowing them to keep a pulse on industry developments and position Simbe in key conversations.

EXPERIENCE

• 10+ Years of Experience in Strategic Communications: Ideally, a leadership role managing multiple functions such as analyst relations, media relations, and thought leadership. Proven track record in managing relationships with industry analysts and securing top-tier media placements, as well as developing thought leadership and strategic communications that resonate with C-suite retail executives.
• Extensive Experience in Retail Technology: A deep understanding of the retail technology landscape, including trends in AI, automation, and robotics, is essential. The candidate should be well-versed in how these technologies are reshaping retail operations and influencing decision-making at the executive level.
• Expertise in AI, Automation, and Robotics: A technical understanding of these fields is critical to communicate Simbe’s innovative work effectively and position the company as a thought leader in the retail technology space.

Simbe Values: R. E. T. A. I. L.
Result Driven - We are customer-centric and results-driven. We strive to create immense value for our team, partners, customers, and investors.
Empathetic - We are sensitive and mindful. We support each other in challenging times, both professionally and personally.
Transparent - We highly value open communication internally, and with our partners and customers. We are receptive to feedback.
Agile - We are agile and always eager to learn. We quickly adapt to changes and customer needs.
Innovative - We are bold and innovative, with an intense focus on product design and user experience.
Leaders - We strive for excellence. We are accountable, the best at what we do, and leaders in our field.