Senior External Affairs & Corporate Communications Manager

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for leading shaping and executing strategies that strengthen Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX) reputation. This role serves as UDXs primary on-the-ground government relations and corporate communications leader in Frisco TX driving proactive engagement with key stakeholders in Texas including elected officials media government agencies (City and County staff) and fence line communities surrounding the resort. Owns the development and delivery of local government relations and communications strategies building and maintaining relationships with industry peers and associations to advocate for industry priorities and position the company as a trusted regional partner and employer of choice. Identifies assesses and remediates issues leads crisis response manages media inquiries and serves as a spokesperson when appropriate. Develops messaging and local communications plans ensuring alignment with enterprise strategy while maintaining accountability for local execution. With expertise in strategic planning and brand stewardship this leader protects and advances the corporate brand in a fast-paced high-visibility environment.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Researches tracks and provides briefing papers to internal stakeholders on local ordinances and state legislation on issues supporting or impacting tourism transportation and business regulation. Leverages information to align navigate and execute Universals relationship strategy in accordance with government proceedings.
• Leads local issues and crisis planning and response efforts for UKR including initial assessment messaging development monitoring escalation and on-the-ground coordination. Drafts and executes holding statements ensuring timely and coordinated alignment with UDX Corporate Communications and other key stakeholders.
• Manages business and industry association relationships throughout Frisco Dallas and Texas including board membership sponsorship and issues management to. Positions UKR as a business leader and partner. Builds and maintains relationships with key community stakeholders and leaders. Ensures compliance with all government laws for hosting events following Comcast Political Affairs Guidelines.
• Leads development and implementation of comprehensive communications plans that support a range of park initiatives including community impact government relations Team Member storytelling and UKR issues/crisis communications. Owns day-to-day execution of local communications including management of the communications mailbox to ensure timely accurate and on-brand responses.
• Serves as designated spokesperson as needed proactively managing local media relationships handling media inquiries and overseeing on-site media logistics. Develops briefing materials and provides media training and preparation for executive spokespeople.
• Serves as the primary owner for Universal Kids Resort (UKR) external communications acting as the first point of intake for communications opportunities issues and inquiries and driving response end-to-end while ensuring alignment and approvals with UDX Corporate Communications as required.
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy procedures training and Team Member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

Bachelors degree in Political Science Public Relations Communications Business Administration or related field is required.

EXPERIENCE:

7 years of corporate communications legislative government or external affairs experience is required; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Your talent skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Kids Resort via-email the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Kids Resort HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Kids Resort. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Kids Resort as a result of the referral or through other means.

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