Communications and Engagement Specialist

We're seeking a Communications and Engagement Specialist to join our team at the Chicago Assembly Plant. As a strategic partner to plant leadership, you'll drive comprehensive communications, community engagement, and local media strategies. Your primary focus will be on translating corporate vision into local action, ensuring our workforce remains informed and inspired while strengthening Ford's reputation within the Chicago community.

Key responsibilities include:

• Functioning as an integral part of the plant operating committee and the communications subject matter expert for the plant
• Leading the development and execution of multifaceted communications strategies for the Chicago Assembly Plant involving storytelling, workforce engagement, events, signage, and other methods
• Operating as the onsite representative of the Ford communications team at your plant
• Acting as a liaison between plant, union, and corporate leadership and being the first line of communication to the employees
• Reporting on and writing articles about major cost and quality wins, innovations, events, and activities taking place at local plant for company-wide distribution
• Writing, formatting, and distributing internal monthly newsletters
• Writing and/or filming leadership messages and presentations to address employees with company and location-specific information as needed
• Managing the local social media group(s) and digital presence, and helping employees to engage across various channels
• Continuous personal development of functional competencies and leadership agility
• Creating and nurturing relationships with key local media, and serving as a liaison between those contacts and the communications team as needed
• Helping to deepen Ford's connection with your local community by fostering relationships with local stakeholders, such as dealers, arts organizations, and small businesses
• Playing a leadership role in planning and executing major events at your site like bi-annual Family Open Houses, Spirit Days, press conferences, executive visits, and more
• Staying connected to major company and industry news
• Serving on communications agile teams as needed

Requirements include:

• Bachelor's degree in journalism, PR, Communications, or related field
• 1-2 years of experience in communications, media relations, or journalism
• Experience in community relations, media relations, and stakeholder advocacy
• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop/InDesign/Premiere and creativity to generate original content
• Strong writing and communication skills
• Top-notch organizational and multi-tasking abilities
• Self-starter attitude
• Personal experience with social media and an understanding of its role in business
• Ongoing awareness of local or regional events and media environment
• Professional and interpersonal maturity with a proven track record of successful relationship building

Preferred qualifications include:

• Passion for the automotive industry
• Manufacturing communications experience