Manager, Travel & Cobrand Communications
This NYC-based position will be an integral member of the CA&C team supporting US Consumer Services.
The Manager, Travel & Cobrand Communications will be part of the team responsible for driving strategic communications for American Express Travel - one of the world’s largest consumer travel agencies, delivering premium travel and lifestyle services to Card Members who love to travel – and Amex’s Cobrand portfolio which includes Delta, Marriott, Hilton, and Financial Service Institutions (FSI).
Communications initiatives will primarily support driving priority narratives, providing counsel to key executives and business partners, shaping and executing proactive press and influencer marketing strategies, supporting executive thought leadership and partner communications, and managing issues to protect and enhance the brand. The Manager will work with press and influencers on behalf of the business and collaborate across internal and external stakeholders including marketing, product, servicing, legal, compliance, partners, agencies, and more.
Specifically, we are looking for a PR professional with a passion for the American Express brand and travel, a strong understanding of the media, social, and influencer landscape, the ability to proactively shape communications strategies and drive results in a fast-paced environment, a collaborative attitude, creative thinking, and the ability to move with agility.
This role will report to the U.S.-based Vice President, Travel & Cobrand Communications.
Develop and execute comprehensive communications strategies, approaches, and content to further business objectives; including clear, concise, and compelling writing tailored to relevant audiences and channels. Communications initiatives will support the business goals of American Express Travel and Cobrand.
Lead the development and approval of materials across external and internal communications including memos, messaging, talking points, Q&As, press releases, and visual content.
Provide communications counsel to business partners and support external communications needs and executive visibility (e.g. media interview or speaking engagement prep, LinkedIn).
Set ambitious KPI-driven goals and use measurement to help inform and enhance communications strategies; measure and report on the impact of the team’s efforts.
Manage social influencer campaigns including identifying the right partners, developing briefs, garnering stakeholder approvals, executing, and reporting on results.
Identify unique and newsworthy opportunities to promote American Express Travel and Cobrand Cards; develop strong relationships with press across verticals, with a focus on travel.
Maintain awareness of industry-level and competitor news, keeping teams informed and providing relevant insights, and collaborating with industry partners.
Support involvement with key travel industry engagement groups and conferences.
Help oversee and manage U.S.-based PR agency.
Collaborate across CA&C – in the US and globally - to support enterprise-wide communications initiatives, as relevant.
Represent American Express as a spokesperson responding to media inquiries.
Remain curious and ahead of emerging platforms, trends, competitor news, and best practices across communications, the travel industry, social media and influencer marketing, and regularly share your perspective to keep the team informed.
Required
Minimum of 5-7 years of PR experience, with deep knowledge of the premium travel industry
Established ability to influence and counsel internal and external stakeholders and apply strong judgement while managing multiple priorities
Experience developing and executing successful communications and influencer marketing strategies
Superior writing skills, strategic thinking, and presentation skills
Media relations experience with proven media results including creativity in developing and managing storytelling with national, local and trade press
Strong organization and attention to detail.
Excellent judgement. Knows when to ask for help
Experience counseling executives and driving their external and internal communications needs.
Needs to be a self-starter, strong collaborator, good project manager, and able to work independently, while operating as an adaptable team player.
Ability to deal with confidential information without exception.
Preferred
Proven track record for developing and executing programs that have driven tangible results.
Experience leading and working with various stakeholders – from agencies to marketing teams to partners - to build effective communications strategies and campaigns.
Experience managing PR agencies and budgets
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.