Primary Focus: Drive strategy and tactical delivery of global communications with specific focus on internal audiences for Walt Disney Imagineering

Role Description

Reporting to the Senior Manager, WDI Executive & Internal Communications, the WDI Communications Manager drives the planning and tactical delivery of communications that reach Imagineers around the world. This individual also serves as an overall communications resource to the broader Walt Disney Imagineering organization, and a partner and key contributor to the communication ecosystem across the segment and company. This role leads multi-disciplinary initiatives and programs that support and advance business and communications objectives among global Imagineers and relevant stakeholder audiences.

Successful candidates should be strategic thinkers, with excellent writing and editing skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously – all while empowering a global team of communication professionals tasked with consistently delivering high-quality, engaging content and programs that move the needle. Preferred candidates should also have experience managing external activations, including speaking engagements, press and PR events, and other media and guest-facing opportunities.

Deliverables include holistic communications strategies, key messages and comms toolboxes, project communications, and program scopes/schedules/budgets. The WDI Internal Communications Manager interfaces with Imagineers at all levels and cross-functional disciplines, and works directly with TWDC, DPEP and WDI peers to ensure coordination and integration of communications messages, campaigns, plans and other deliverables.

Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end development, planning and delivery of strategic internal communications plans globally that align with the company’s business priorities – and resonate strongly with Imagineers.

• Lead and advance WDI’s global editorial strategy and channels, including our weekly newsletter, email messages, digital signage, and internal platform. Identify and deploy new tactics and channels to reach and engage with a global audience.

• Identify, research and deliver written and video stories about Imagineers, projects, community engagement activities, etc. Work with WDI communications team members and DPEP IC partners to multi-purpose stories and updates, as appropriate.

• Provide hands-on support and consultation to Imagineers, project and support teams, studio leaders and stakeholders across WDI in the development of communications strategies and tactics that reach intended audiences, provide clear and concise information, and further our overall business goals.

• Serve as the keeper of the WDI Communications “editorial voice” and provide writing, editing support to the broader team as needed.

• Partner closely with WDI Communications leaders to build and strengthen Imagineering’s unique culture and sense of community. Provide high-quality communications support to culture and community events globally.

• Support WDI Communications team leaders in creating and executing communications that drive global connectivity, support Imagineer retention, build Imagineer pride, and support local business needs.

• Collaborate closely with the WDI Executive Communications team to help develop executive communications strategies and tactics.

• Integrate WDI internal communications, external communications and corporate social responsibility efforts to align content deliverables with end-users in mind.

• Support planning and delivery of external media opportunities, interviews, global press and PR events and activations, and other critical initiatives as needed.

• Provide portfolio management including storylines, production notes, research, fact sheets, Disney Parks Blog postings, etc. Interface regularly with project leaders and team members and manage requests from PA, PR, Marketing, IC and other DPEP/Disney partners.

• Lead, manage and/or support special projects as assigned/requested by the Senior Manager, WDI Executive & Internal Communications or Director, WDI Communications.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in communications or public relations (preferably internal communications)
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills with maturity and confidence in working with colleagues at all levels of the organization
• Demonstrated ability in managing large scale communication strategies
• Self-motivated, natural leader who can manage team members and workloads to meet deadlines in a fast-paced, sometimes ambiguous environment
• Ability to translate complex concepts and ideas into concise and engaging content for a variety of audiences and voices
• Excellent grammar skills and experience with copy editing along with an eye for design
• Experience interfacing with global media outlets and high-profile speakers
• Well organized and trustworthy with a high level of discretion
• Proficient in Word, PowerPoint/Keynote, Excel, Outlook, and other technology solutions for communication needs

Required Education

• BA or BS required, preferably with a background in Communications, Journalism, or Public Affairs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in both internal and external communications
• Experience in working with content management systems (WordPress) and managing other social media and communication applications
• Basic understanding of design software (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.)
• Knowledge of Walt Disney Imagineering and/or Disney Parks, Experiences and Products businesses

 

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The hiring range for this position in California is $112,012.00 to $150,260.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.