Discover Applebee's:

--Competitive salary commensurate with experience
--25% of base salary annual bonus opportunity
--Medical, Dental, Vision
--401(k) Retirement Plan: The Company currently matches 100% of the first 3% of pay you contribute and matches 50% of the next 2% you contribute
--Deferred Compensation Program
--$75 in Applebee's gift cards per month to use in any way you want!
--Flexible Dependent and Health Spending Accounts
--Life Insurance at one and a half times your annual salary
--Supplemental Life Insurance for you and your dependents
--Domestic Partner Benefits
--Pay for Performance culture where you will be rewarded for your performance based on agreed upon performance objectives and target performance ratings
--2 weeks vacation per year
--2 personal days per year (Philanthropy & Employee Choice)
--10 sick days per year
--Business casual dress

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Applebee's is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Key Accountabilities:

1. The Executive Director of Communications has overall responsibility for all:
----internal communications
----media relations
----public relations

Duties include:
----the development and implementation of media relations and internal communications strategy
----responsibility for creating and executing public relations events that support the marketing calendar, drive traffic, and positions Applebee's as a good neighbor within the communities it serves.

It has dual reporting responsibilities to
----Vice President of Human Resources
----Vice President of Marketing.

INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS
----Directs company-wide internal communications programs that support the corporate strategy. This includes leadership communications, HR communications and change management communications
----Leads the strategic planning, development and coordination of all internal communications programs to further company objectives and bring the mission, vision and values of the company to life
----Establishes company-wide standards for communications messages and policies
----Demonstrates robust understanding of the business and the ability to translate business needs into strategic communications plans that advance the company's goals
----Provides communications counsel to members of senior management, displaying business acumen and understanding of the most critical business drivers
----Coaches and influences company leaders to help them understand how internal communications can help drive the business
----Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of employee communications and communications principles and practices

PUBLIC RELATIONS
----Possesses a strong understanding of strategic integrated communications and how PR can strengthen the brand and influence perception among key stakeholders
----Responsible for the daily management and implementation of strategic communications programs that meaningfully and measurably advance PR objectives and brand position
----Works with internal staff and external agencies to secure positive consumer and business press coverage
----Leads, directs and manages external PR agency relationships and contracts
----Develops, manages and measures PR programs/campaigns
----Integrates public relations activities into overall marketing campaigns to support business objectives

MEDIA RELATIONS
----Serves as the company's primary spokesperson for all media
----Leads the development of the overall media strategy, including developing story pitches and strategically positioning Applebee's in the media
----Develops and strengthens relationships with key national media to garner significant, positive coverage
----Develops press releases, talking points, presentations and other communications materials for external audiences
----Coaches company leaders; manages press events, prepares appropriate briefing materials and staffs interviews as needed
----Works with top-tier consumer and business media, including network morning shows, syndicated talk shows, entertainment and lifestyle publications and the major radio networks, as well as the appropriate editors and producers in the Top 25 media markets

SKILLS
----Exceptional oral and written communications skills
----Credentials as a thought-leader and enthusiastic practitioner who follows trends and best practices in corporate communications and continuously brings those insights to Applebee's
----Self-motivated, comfortable and effective working in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment; must be flexible and adapt quickly to shifting priorities
----Strong project management skills, including development of project plans and timelines, as well as producing project updates, analysis and measurement for senior management
----Networking and relationship-building skills are imperative
----High level of strategic focus, planning, perspective
----Ability to influence and motivate others
----Proven conceptual and planning skills, strong financial skills, and the ability to manage in a highly diversified, changing environment

Ideal candidate will have:

EDUCATION, TRAINING & CERTIFICATION:
Required: Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism or related field.
Desired: Master's Degree in Communications, Journalism or related field.

EXPERIENCE IN SIMILAR ROLE OR FUNCTION:
Required: 15 or more years' experience in corporate communications and/or agency; Restaurant & multi-unit retail experience a plus
---Strong internal communications experience with multiple stakeholders is a must
---Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
---Strong critical thinking
---Experience building effective message platforms
---Broad understanding of general business trends and an ability to consult knowledgeably with senior executives on a broad range of communications topics

Advanced knowledge of national news and social media, with well-developed skills in building and maintaining relationships with members of the media

INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE:
Desired: Some multi-unit retail or restaurant communications experience

SOURCE: ONLINE JOB WEBSITE 06/16/09
TO VIEW THE ORIGINAL JOB OPENING PLEASE CLICK HERE