Director - Public Affairs and Communications - American Express - Sydney

Job description
Are you an experienced leader seeking a more complex and challenging role?
A great opportunity exists for an energetic leader who is passionate about Public Relations and stakeholder management. Reporting to the Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications JAPA you will be responsible for the development and implementation of public affairs strategies that advance the American Express strategic objectives in Australia and New Zealand.
You will lead a small, dynamic team of highly skilled PR professionals and where appropriate manage agency relationships. To be successful in this role, you will need to identify opportunities to generate positive media coverage and be proactive in managing issues to protect and enhance the American Express brand. You will build strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders both internally and externally, and become a trusted partner and adviser to business unit leaders to drive demonstrable results.

Responsibilities:
1. Drive an aggressive public relations strategy, with a small team and where appropriate external agencies, to address key business challenges and support business growth in across American Express business units in Australia and New Zealand.
2. Lead the media program in the traditional and online space to generate both positive coverage and quality relationships. Manage executive interviews and serve as media spokesperson in addition to/as a substitute for business leaders.
3. Issues management and crisis communication leader - including a position on the American Express Crisis Response team in Australia and New Zealand.
4. Work with the team to assist in strategy development and implementation of employee communications plans in support of business goals.
5. Establish, direct and/or leverage the variety of partnerships and events undertaken across the Company to reinforce company image and business strategy.
6. Oversee the Philanthropic program in Australia and New Zealand.

7. Partnering with VP, on monitoring and advising senior management on legislative developments in Australia and New Zealand as they may impact the Company.
This role may be subject to additional background verification checks.

Desired Skills and Experience
Qualifications

- A minimum of 8-10 years experience in a broad communication role with a demonstrable track record of success. A combination of in-house and agency experience is preferred.
- Financial Services or Payments experience desirable.
- Extensive and relevant experience in developing and implementing communication strategies particularly in reference to issues management and consumer affairs.
- Ability to manage multiple projects within short timeframes and within changing priorities.
- Outstanding project management, written and verbal communication skills.
- A strong network of media contacts in Australia and New Zealand.
- The ability to think and act on-your-feet, and adapt to change is essential.
- Effective and experienced leader with excellent judgment and people management skills.
- Experience with social/digital media.
- Experience as a company spokesperson.
- Ability to work within matrix environment.

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