International PR Manager
Whilst we are not a virtual Firm, we understand the benefits of hybrid working. We adopt a hybrid working approach, working on a 60/40 split between working in the office and working remotely. This arrangement is non-contractual, dependent on requirements of the role and subject to manager approval.
Reporting to Director of Communications & Corporate Affairs, the International PR Manager is responsible for developing and implementing the international PR strategies for the Firm’s international offices, to enhance the Firm’s brand, reputation and market positioning globally. The communication strategies are tailored to support the Firm, divisions, practice groups, and each office’s goals while aligning with the Firm’s overall communication strategy.
This role is crucial for enhancing the Firm’s brand presence, engaging multiple stakeholders, and effectively communicating and protecting our value proposition on a global scale. This role will focus on cultivating relationships with international media, managing communications, and promoting the Firm’s services and expertise.
This role will work closely with the Head of International Business Development and their team. He/she/they will work closely with the Director of Communications, the central PR team, and Heads of International Offices on communications matters, as well as holding key relationships with the Firm’s, Director of Business Development & Marketing and wider BD&M team, Head of Clients and Relationships, Partners and fee earners. The role holder will regularly, together with the Head of International Business Development input to Global Operations Committee, Global Relationships Committee as well as manage (if required) external PR agencies.
Role Purpose
To provide specialist skills that support the Firm’s go-to-market strategy and build the Charles Russell Speechlys international brand, internally and externally. As a key member of the team you will get involved in enhancing, promoting and protecting the Firm’s reputation and brand with external stakeholders.
Roles and Responsibilities
• Comply with all relevant legal and regulatory obligations including the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Standards and Regulations, and Principles.
• Develop the Firm's international media strategy in conjunction with the Director of Communications to raise, maintain and protect the Firm's external profile.
• Create press releases, media kits, and other materials for media outreach. Coordinate with regional teams to tailor messages for local markets.
Design and implement PR strategies to support the Firm’s objectives. Identify and manage key messaging for practice areas and insights.
• Establish new relationships with the Firm's external stakeholders, to support local BD Managers alongside the Director of Communications, and Head of International Business Development.
• Responsible for day-to-day implementation of the global media relations strategies in line with Core Group plans and the Firm-wide strategy.
• Deal with international media enquiries, developing and maintaining relationships with target publications and journalists.
• Support the delivery of corporate communications, working, if appropriate, with the Firm’s retained agency to identify profile raising opportunities and draft press releases.
• Identify opportunities in social media and other digital platforms such as Passle to complement media relations strategy.
• Create and distribute press releases, briefings, articles and other communications materials, including survey submissions.
• Consistently build and develop relationships with journalists across, business, trade and regional press.
• Work with the Marketing & BD teams to ensure the Firm’s internal and external communications are seamlessly co-ordinated with any international media activity.
• Coordinate global events and press conferences, working with the Business Development and marketing team to explore and develop PR opportunities within marketing campaigns, advise on methodology and delivery.
• Draft copy for internal communications that align to external communications, adapting the tone as appropriate for the channel.
• Advise on the PR elements of sponsorship opportunities and thought leadership and work with the wider Marketing and Business Development team and partners to deliver high quality activity designed to promote and reinforce the Firm’s reputation.
• Advise on best practice and be a trusted advisor to the wider team and fee earners, providing training and support to regional communication teams.
• Research the Firm’s competitors to identify new ideas and tools to continually improve the way the Firm promotes itself in the marketplace, including use of AI.
• Develop and produce reports to analyse and monitor the effectiveness of the Firm’s media relations coverage to ensure continuous improvements.
• Ensure compliance with communication policies and regulations.
• Manage communication budgets and allocate resources effectively.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
Skills and Experience
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in global communications or related roles.
• Experience in collaborating across an international, cross-matrix business
• Proven track record in developing and implementing communication strategies.
• Experience mentoring junior team members and managing up to senior team members
• Experience in managing communication budgets.
Person Specification
• Excellent verbal, copywriting, and proofreading skills
• Multiple languages desired spoken/written to proficient business level
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Strong understanding of international markets and cultural nuances.
• Positive and enthusiastic, especially when working under pressure
• Able to deal with sensitive and confidential information
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Monitoring platforms, and proficient use of AI prompting
• Be available to deal with enquiries out of core office hours if appropriate
Competencies
• Working together
• Integrity and respect
• Inclusive
• Personal impact and growth
• Driving high standards
• Commercial mindset
• Client – centric
• Responsible Business