The successful candidate will have agency experience and possess a strong background in public affairs using digital solutions to influence political, public policy engagement and advocacy; as well as interest working in cross sectors such as consumer products, technology and healthcare.
Responsibilities
- Develop, build and grow digital strategy for public affairs, as well as other cross sectors (consumer products, technology and health care).
- You are the key digital strategist "go to" for account teams.
- Support development of unique market-focused digital communications IP for Waggener Edstrom Worldwide.
- Develops online communications programs (examples: blog immersion packages, viral campaigns, online community building, internet influential modeling tools, digital storytelling programs, etc...) prioritized against client/prospect needs.
- Always wearing digital glasses and serves as cross account digital air traffic control.
- Responsible for innovation adoption of digital communications across account teams; ensures all communication plans incorporate digital elements. Works to develop curriculum and training for account staff and practice groups to deliver these programs directly to clients.
- Responsible for packaging and marketing digital deliverables across our accounts.
- Participates in enthusiast groups within and outside of the agency.
- Proactively opportunistic - stays on top of emerging technologies and develops new programs and IP accordingly. Presenter and futurist on emerging digital strategies.
- Support both regional marketing and communications activities for Waggener Edstrom Worldwide. This may include both primary and supporting roles at regional speaking engagements, networking receptions, and trade media interviews.
- Provides pricing guidance to account teams.
Qualifications
- Bachelor degree a must. Advanced or specialty degree desired.
- 10+ years' experience that ideally includes mix of agency and in-house corporate experience. Ideal candidate will have truly "integrated" communications background that includes many shades of influence (PR, Interactive, Promotions, and Advertising) or some mix of both traditional and new.
- Interest and demonstrated knowledge of current affairs and public policy debates.
- Interest in working cross-sectors (Consumer products, Technology, Healthcare) but firm experience in using digital solutions to influence political, public policy engagement and advocacy.
- Digital credibility - long track record of results and impact in digital influence. Could pass the giggle test if guru was in your title.
- Experience working with both B2B and Consumer brands. Ability to work with clients of all stripes from SMEs to global brands. Knows how to influence lagging adopters a big plus!
- Genuine commitment to building a trusted advisor relationship cross-agency. Customer service a priority.
- Understands the balance between a "take no prisoners" and strong influence.
- Proven track record of creative digital influence, social networking and social journalism. Must have keen understanding of the changing face of influence ability to toggle seamlessly between traditional and new influence paradigms (depending on client situation). Experience identifying and engaging online influencers as well as direct to consumer.
- Collaborative spirit with a get it done work ethic. Presence and presentation pizzazz - new business or sales background a plus.
- Comfortable taking risks and thrives in fast-moving, constantly shifting context. No fear of ambiguity.
- Handle obstacles and difficult people with diplomacy and tact.
- Results-oriented track record with strong understanding of research and measurement methodologies in both online and offline contexts.
Waggener Edstrom Worldwide (WE) is a global, integrated communications agency. For more than 25 years, the independently owned firm has developed strategic communications programs for innovative and world-changing clients, working to influence markets, inspire people and improve lives. In 2009, WE was awarded Best PR Agency in North America by International Business Awards and Top Place to Work in PR by PR News. In addition, WE was named one of Oregon Business' 100 Best Companies to Work For. WE was also named European Technology Agency of the Year in 2008. WE has earned numerous honors for its outstanding work on behalf of clients, for its exceptional people and for its innovation in communications. The agency has more than 750 employees in 15 offices around the world, and its 15 Global Alliance partners expand the agency's reach to 30 additional international markets. WE has seven global practices: Analyst Relations, Consumer Marketing, Corporate Communications, Healthcare, Public Affairs, Technology and WE Social Innovation, along with its digital strategies group, WE Studio DTM. More information can be found at http://www.WaggenerEdstrom.com.
Our greatest asset at Waggener Edstrom Worldwide is our people. We place a high premium on those who share our belief in the power of change, discovery and innovation. And when we find them, we're committed to providing an Innovation Workplace with compelling work and work environments that encourage a culture of innovation and collaboration, professional development, outstanding total rewards, and an opportunity to make a difference.
Waggener Edstrom Worldwide believes its people are its greatest asset. The company offers outstanding professional development and competitive compensation and benefits. Please submit your resume (in a Word document only please) via our website at http://jobs.waggeneredstrom.com/jobs/257559-Vice-President-WE-Studio-D.aspx
SOURCE: PUBLIC AFFAIRS COUNCIL 04/12/10

