Senior Public Relations Manager

About the Team/Role

WEX is a global commerce platform that helps businesses solve for operational complexities like employee benefits, managing and mobilizing fleets, and streamlining payments. While these complexities may keep our customers up at night, they are why we get out of bed in the morning. With over 7,000 employees across the globe, we work with large and small companies in more than 200 countries and territories, and can tailor our services to meet the unique needs of their businesses.

WEX is seeking an experienced Senior Public Relations Manager to join its growing team. The global role is part of the Marketing team. Headquarters is based in Portland, ME.

The Senior Public Relations Manager is responsible for developing and executing effective public relations strategies to enhance the company's reputation, build strong relationships with media outlets, and support overall business objectives. This individual contributor role will be pivotal in shaping the company's narrative and ensuring positive media coverage.

How you'll make an impact

• Define proactive PR strategy for assigned business areas to support the achievement of company objectives
• Identify and develop compelling storylines to be brought to life via owned content creation (in partnership with Marketing) or media pitches (in partnership with our PR Agency of Record).
• Respond to media inquiries promptly and accurately.
• Monitor media coverage and analyze its impact.
• Prepare and staff senior executives for media briefings or speaking engagements, as necessary.
• Build and cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders internally, as well as with industry thought leaders, media, conference organizers, etc.
• Provide guidance and support to internal stakeholders as they design announcement strategies showcasing new products, customers, partnerships, with an eye towards evolving the perception of WEX as a global, innovative fintech company.
• Partner with the Communications Team to develop and execute internal communication strategies to keep employees informed and engaged
• Monitor online reputation and address negative sentiment.
• Develop proactive reputation management strategies.
• Support issues management and crisis management, as necessary.

Experience you'll bring

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in public relations or corporate communications.
• Passion for global tech, fintech, climate tech, and venture capital trends and an ability to unearth compelling narratives at WEX that align with these global trends.
• Strong writing and communication skills.
• Excellent media relations skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Flexibility to work outside normal business hours.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape and trends.
• Track record of developing and delivering high-profile, impactful, and measurable communications results from start to finish.
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills with an ability to counsel senior leaders.
• Adherence to confidentiality is essential.