DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Director of CommunicationsBecome part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice Awards Best Places to WorkThis position is eligible for an Employee Referral Bonus If you know someone that is qualified for this role, please refer your referral and email them a link to apply. Your referral will be able to apply by clicking the link in the email. You can check the status through your profile, accessible via Careers in PeopleHub, by clicking on 'referral tracking.' For Employee Referral guidelines, FAQs and the Compass Employee Referral Policy, email MyReferral@compass-usa.com.Job SummaryThe Director of Communications for Restaurant Associates will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy that strengthens our brand, amplifies our values of CARE, enhances our reputation, and drives employee engagement across all levels of the organization.This individual will oversee both internal communications to ensure employees are informed, aligned, and motivated, and external communications to build brand awareness for the various sectors and accounts, manage media relations, and enhance potential guest and client confidence.As a senior leader within the company, the Director of Communications will serve as a trusted advisor to executives, guiding messaging around corporate strategy, brand initiatives, crisis communications, and community engagement.Key ResponsibilitiesInternal CommunicationsBuild on and implement the internal communications strategy, fostering engagement, alignment, and a strong company culture.Lead communication planning for leadership and client announcements, organizational changes, and key company initiatives.Partner with HR, Culture, Operations, and Marketing to ensure team members are informed, engaged, and aligned with company vision and programs.Oversee internal communication channels (employee engagement app, monthly internal newsletter, quarterly client newsletter, town halls, R/A website), ensuring consistent and engaging messaging.Support executive communications, including individual social media posts, speech writing, talking points, and leadership messaging.External CommunicationsBuild on and manage R/A's public relations and media strategy to strengthen brand reputation and market presence.Serve as primary spokesperson and manage media inquiries, press releases, and crisis communication responses.Develop proactive storytelling to highlight company innovations, partnerships, sustainability efforts, and community involvement.Liaise with PR partners at all accounts to collaborate on proactive strategies.Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, industry organizations, and key external stakeholders.Leadership & StrategyAdvise executive leadership on communication opportunities, risks, and best practices.Establish measurable goals and track the impact of communications initiatives.Lead and mentor field communications champions, ensuring high-quality content and execution across all channels.Oversee brand voice and messaging guidelines to ensure consistency across all platforms.Manage external PR agencies, consultants, and communication vendors as needed.QualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.8+ years of progressive communications experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role, preferably within dining, hospitality, or consumer-facing industries.Proven success in developing and executing internal and external communications strategies.Strong media relations experience and established industry contacts.Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills.Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.Strong leadership, collaboration, and people management skills.Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, holiday time off, associate shopping program, health and wellness programs, discount marketplace, identity theft protection, pet insurance, commuter benefits, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, paid parental leave, and personal leave.Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.