Manager, Corporate Communications

Education - It's in Our DNA

At Barnes & Noble Education ("BNED") we are dedicated to making tomorrow a better, more inclusive, and smarter world by servicing all who work in education. As a leading solutions provider for the education industry, we are committed to driving affordability, accessibility, and achievement at hundreds of academic institutions nationwide by ensuring millions of students are equipped for success in the classroom and beyond. Together, our teams work to elevate lives through education.

As part of this mission, we are seeking a Manager, Corporate Communications to develop and execute public relations and media strategies in collaboration with internal partners. This individual will be responsible for writing and editing key materials—including press releases, talking points, and media round-ups—while also fielding press inquiries. The role will manage the editorial calendar and content development for corporate social media channels, oversee important external and internal communications initiatives, and maintain the BNED corporate website. In addition, the Manager will support research and brand campaigns, as well as media engagement tied to store openings and seasonal events.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Develop and implement internal and external communications strategies for key company initiatives.
• Partner cross-functionally to craft cohesive brand stories and align messaging across the business.
• Write and edit press releases, messaging documents, media toolkits, and other communications materials.
• Build and maintain relationships with industry, lifestyle, business, and local media; proactively pitch stories and manage incoming media inquiries.
• Monitor press coverage, industry trends, and breaking news; compile and distribute daily recaps of relevant industry and competitor activity.
• Prepare spokespeople for interviews, media appearances, and speaking engagements.
• Collaborate with field leaders (VPs, Regional and Store Managers) on local media outreach and provide training to strengthen brand representation in communities.
• Manage corporate website and social media content, including and LinkedIn.
• Partner with Finance to develop and execute messaging and materials for quarterly earnings, annual shareholder meetings, investor events, and industry conferences.
• Additional responsibilities as required. 

What You'll Need to Succeed

• Exceptional writing and editing skills with strong attention to detail.

• Proven experience developing and executing complex communications campaigns.

• Experience managing media relations, including working directly with reporters.

• Expertise in developing key messages and preparing spokespeople for interviews and speaking engagements.

• Experience collaborating with external communications/PR agencies.

• Strong executive presence with the ability to confidently engage senior leadership and cross-functional teams.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, balancing multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Skilled at operating in fast-paced environments while managing competing projects.

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.

NOTE: This hybrid role is based in New Jersey and requires in-office presence three days per week at our office in Florham Park, NJ.

How We Elevate Our Employees

We believe your success is our success, and we're committed to supporting you in every aspect of life. At BNED, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote physical, mental, and financial well-being. Our full-time employees receive access to medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan; life and disability insurance; commuter benefits; paid time off and holidays; and a broad range of additional benefits.

The hiring range for this position is $120,000 - $130,000 per year. This range represents the base salary only, in good faith at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. This position is bonus-eligible, with bonus amounts determined at the company's discretion based on individual qualifications and applicable program terms.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

At Barnes & Noble Education we empower everyone. Our mission is to support students, faculty, and schools, serving as a catalyst to meet the evolving needs of the education system and a new generation of students. That starts with fostering an environment for our employees where diversity and individuality is celebrated.

Barnes & Noble Education is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. In the spirit of inclusivity, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, ability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, nationality, protected veteran status, race, religion or sexual orientation.

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