Communications Specialist / Sr. Comms Specialist
PPL · Allentown
Company Summary StatementPPL Electric Utilities delivers safe, reliable and affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million homes and businesses throughout its 29-county service territory in eastern and central Pennsylvania. Through smart investments and innovation, it has built one of the most advanced electric grids in the United States. And, with over a century of expertise, PPL Electric remains focused on continuing to build the utility of the future, today. Regularly ranking among the country’s best utility companies for reliability and customer satisfaction, PPL Electric has won numerous awards, including 30 J.D. Power Awards for providing top-quality service to residential and business customers. PPL Electric is a major employer and an active supporter of the communities it serves. Empowering employees, community members and initiatives across its service territory through volunteerism and investments in organizations that support education, sustainability, and wellbeing.
Overview
Support the development, implementation, and evaluation of strategic internal and external communications initiatives that advance PPL Electric Utilities' business objectives and brand reputation. Serve as a trusted communications advisor to the business, proactively shaping messaging and campaigns that support regulatory, operational, and stakeholder priorities. Leverage data, trends, and best practices to deliver integrated communications strategies, enhance employee engagement and strengthen relationships with key audiences.
Provide support for internal and external communications for PPL Electric Utilities. Manage and improve effectiveness of internal websites and write a variety of internal and external communications to improve the public image of PPL Electric Utilities. Responsible to maintain communication strategies and initiatives that help the company meet its goals and enhance the company's reputation.
Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities
Essential Functions
- Support the strategic planning and lead implementation and measurement of integrated communications campaigns that support business priorities, regulatory initiatives, and stakeholder engagement.
- Advise cross-functional teams and internal clients on strategic messaging and effective communications tactical plans to enhance reputation management. Manage internal and external communications for various business areas, as assigned.
- Develop and implement content strategies for multiple channels, including web, social, media, and internal platforms, to ensure consistent, impactful messaging. Leverage latest trends, platforms and digital tools to produce effective content.
- Provide writing services for various communications in PPL Electric Utilities functions, including news and features for PPL's employee news website, employee communications materials, and materials for public outreach commnications.
- Serve as a company spokesperson and media contact as needed, managing relationships with key media outlets and stakeholders.
- Participate in editorial planning and content planning to provide creative ideas and content across all channels and audiences.
- Build and maintain productive relationships with company management, colleagues and all employees to improve internal and external communications on behalf of the company.
- Be an excellent writer -- fast and accurate -- and be able to apply that skill to every medium we use, including publications, Intranet, Internet, advertising, social media and others. Have excellent presentation skills, and be able to persuade, and to diplomatically disagree, when necessary, to advance the company's public relations interests. Be prepared to prove your writing and communications planning skills in a pre-employment test.
- Serve on the emergency on-call rotation and be prepared to support crisis communications activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Comply with all policies and standards.
Qualifications
Required Education
Education Level: Bachelor's Degree
Education Details: In journalism, communications, public relations, marketing or relevant field.
Required Experience
Experience: 2+ years in strategic communications, public relations, or corporate communications, preferably in a regulated industry or utility environment.
- Demonstrated experience developing and executing integrated communications strategies and campaigns.
- Advanced proficiency in digital communications, news media, and social media management.
- Strong project management and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Ability to work cooperatively and effectively as part of a team, with a strong focus on constructive culture and appropriate behavior.
- Excellent writing, editing, and presentation skills; proven ability to craft compelling messages for diverse audiences.
- Excellent interpersonal and oral communications skills. Leadership skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in journalism, public relations, communications, or relevant field.
- 10+ years' experience in news media.
- Experience in electric utility communications.
- Leadership experience.