Director, Communications

About the role

Cardless is on the lookout for a dynamic Director of Communications who will spearhead the development and execution of its public relations strategy. This pivotal position is designed to enhance the company's public persona and ensure that its narrative is communicated effectively and authentically to the marketplace. The successful candidate will be tasked with fostering relationships within the media, securing coverage, and boosting the visibility of the executive team.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Build and nurture relationships with journalists and media representatives who focus on fintech, payment solutions, and consumer brands.
• Gain a deep understanding of media sectors to effectively pitch relevant stories that resonate with target audiences.
• Keep a close watch on industry publications and news sources to identify trends related to card programs and embedded finance.
• Act as the spokesperson for Cardless in all communications with the media, ensuring the company's voice is heard.
• Seek out and secure opportunities for interviews, bylined articles, panel discussions, and speaking engagements for company leaders.
• Equip executives with the necessary preparation for media interactions, including crafting talking points and anticipating potential questions.
• Formulate a cohesive thought leadership strategy that positions Cardless as an industry leader.
• Oversee public relations activities surrounding new brand partnerships, coordinating announcements with partner communications teams.
• Navigate the approval processes of partners to facilitate timely and accurate public communications.
• Elevate partner launches into significant media events that reinforce Cardless's overall market narrative.
• Synchronize timing across press releases, product launches, and partnership announcements to ensure a unified approach.
• Create and manage press releases, media kits, and briefing documents that effectively communicate the company's messages.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on the quality and frequency of media coverage to assess the effectiveness of PR efforts.
• Maintain updated media lists and outreach systems to streamline communication efforts.
• Proactively identify and mitigate potential reputational risks or negative media coverage that could impact the company.

Requirements

• Proven track record of established relationships with journalists and editors in the fintech, payments, or consumer brand sectors.
• Strong news judgment to discern compelling stories and craft company updates that appeal to the media.
• Experience in preparing executives for media engagements, ensuring they communicate with clarity and confidence.
• Exceptional writing skills for creating accurate and timely press materials that resonate with target audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex joint announcements involving multiple stakeholders, while meeting deadlines and managing intricate details.
• Ability to remain composed and think clearly in high-pressure media situations.

Nice to have

• Experience in a startup environment, particularly within the fintech or payments sectors.
• Familiarity with digital marketing strategies and their integration with public relations efforts.
• Knowledge of social media trends and their impact on public perception.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in media monitoring tools and PR software to track coverage and manage outreach.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and timelines effectively.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for building relationships with media and internal stakeholders.

Practical notes

This role is hands-on and focuses on direct engagement in pitching stories, writing materials, and building media relationships, rather than managing an external agency. The position requires a proactive approach to shaping news narratives and responding to unexpected media inquiries. Close collaboration with the Product Marketing team is essential to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.

Benefits include meaningful equity in a growing startup, comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance (with 75% coverage for dependents), catered lunches, a monthly commuter benefit of $250, parental leave, team-building activities, flexible paid time off (minimum of 15 days), Apple equipment, and a 401k retirement plan. This position is based in the San Francisco office, with a requirement to work on-site five days a week.