Director of External Communications and Media Relations

Company Overview

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US’s dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

Position Overview

QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Director of External Communications and Media Relations to join our team in McLean, VA. Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications, this role will play a pivotal part in shaping and executing our external communications and positioning strategy across QinetiQ US. This role is essential in managing our company's public image and communications strategy, with a focus on the aerospace and defense sector. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in working with industry-specific media, crafting compelling corporate messaging, and positioning our executives as thought leaders in the field. Collaboration across the QinetiQ US enterprise, including our executives and business units, is key to success in this position. Additionally, this role will focus on aligning our efforts with the global QinetiQ communications and adapting them to resonate with the US market. 

Responsibilities

• Enhance Brand Reputation: Collaborate closely with business development teams to craft
compelling narratives that highlight the unique value propositions of QinetiQ US technologies and
offerings. We expect this role will:
o Create and implement strategic communications plans that align with business
objectives.
o Develop and refine corporate messaging to ensure consistency across all external
communications.
o Draft talking points, speeches, and presentations for senior executives.
o Provide media training and preparation for executives and other spokespersons.
o Generate comprehensive media kits and briefing documents related to QinetiQ
capabilities.
o Write executive communications, including op-eds, blog posts, and social media content.
o Be proficient in crisis communication and issue management response

By effectively communicating our strengths and capabilities, you will bolster our brand reputation
and credibility among stakeholders and industry peers.

• Drive Market Visibility: Create and execute the U.S. communications strategy to elevate the
visibility of QinetiQ US. We expect this role to:
o Develop and maintain strong relationships with global aerospace and defense reporters
and key media outlets.
o Create an editorial calendar of media opportunities for QinetiQ US to address throughout
the year.
o Proactively identify media opportunities and manage incoming media inquiries.
o Draft and disseminate press releases, statements, and other media materials.
o Support executive positioning efforts by identifying speaking opportunities, awards, and
other visibility initiatives.
o Write executive communications, including op-eds, blog posts, and social media content.
o Work with business units (BUs) and corporate communications to anticipate and address
upcoming needs.
o Oversee management of QinetiQ’s social media channels and website.

Your efforts will directly impact our brand recognition and market penetration, contributing to the
growth and success of our organization.

• Facilitate Business Growth: Partner with subject matter experts to develop strategic
communications campaigns that resonate with target audiences and drive business growth. This
includes:
o Creating a comprehensive thought leadership plan for executives and subject matter
experts.
o Produce high-quality written content, including articles, white papers, and case studies,
that articulate complex engineering concepts to diverse audiences.
o Collaborate with technical teams to translate technical information into clear, compelling
narratives.
o Identify third parties such as think tanks and industry associations for partnerships and
facilitating the opportunity.
o Presentation training and prep for subject matter experts (SMEs).
o Leading co-marketing and positioning messaging with partners and other third-parties.
o Generating messaging for existing products and services as well as upcoming
innovations.
o Position QinetiQ for industry awards and supporting submissions for evaluation.
o Partner with internal communications to ensure that external messages align with internal
communications strategy.
o Work with our senior digital and social strategist to extend external communications to
relevant audiences.

Your creative thinking and ideation will play a crucial role in positioning QinetiQ US as a preferred
partner for clients and investors alike.

• Measure Impact: Utilize analytic reports to measure the effectiveness of our communication
efforts. By generating actionable insights, you will help refine our strategies and optimize
resource allocation to maximize impact and ROI.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications or marketing and 8-10 years of experience in
communications or public relations, with at least 5 years in a senior role within the aerospace and
defense industry.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with aerospace and defense reporters and media outlets.
• Proven experience in drafting talking points, corporate messaging, and preparing executives for
media interactions.
• Strong understanding of advanced engineering concepts and the ability to communicate these to
both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to manage third-party public relations firm.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Deep knowledge of AP Style and experience in adhering to global brand standards .
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to adapt messaging for US
audiences while maintaining global consistency.
• Proficiency in using Cision, Meltwater, and other communication engagement tools, with an
understanding of US-specific media trends and preferences.
• Experience in crisis communications and issues management response.
• Understanding of and the ability to execute public affairs campaigns.
• Highly organized with strong collaboration skills and flexibility, able to navigate the complexities of
aligning US efforts with global brand initiatives.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple competing priorities effectively,
while remaining agile and adaptable to changing market dynamics.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with cross -functional teams.
• Must be proactive in reaching out and building relationships and responsive to inquiries.

Join us in sharing the exciting journey of QinetiQ US and contribute to our mission of taking the global
QinetiQ brand to new heights in the US market.

Company EEO Statement