📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Communications Specialist
🔹 Company: Hudson River Trading
🔹 Location: New York, NY, United States
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: Financial Services
🔹 Date Posted: April 17, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (5-10 years)
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Collaborating across teams to develop and execute messaging that enhances the employee experience and elevates the external brand.
- Managing the full project lifecycle for communications initiatives while ensuring all communications meet the highest editorial standards.
- Working closely with the People Ops team to craft messaging that engages the global workforce and streamlines communication across the firm.
- Thriving in a fast-moving, highly collaborative environment and managing multiple projects without missing details.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong communicator who can engage a highly technical audience and adapt to a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Develop, draft, and refine communications across the firm, maintaining clarity and consistency in tone and messaging.
✅ Provide editorial guidance and feedback to ensure internal and external communications are polished, inclusive, engaging, and aligned with the organizational voice and goals.
✅ Manage logistics and timelines for communications projects, collaborating with team members and key stakeholders to ensure transparency, efficiency, and excellence in execution.
✅ Maintain the internal communications editorial calendar, pitch employee engagement content ideas, manage timelines, and keep stakeholders informed.
✅ Work collaboratively with all departments on content generation, from simple refinements and edits to full project management of new comms initiatives.
✅ Develop content that effectively communicates complex technical concepts, for both internal and external audiences, from internal all-hands to social channels and tech blog.
✅ Assist with photo and video shoots, manage production timelines, participant communications, talking points, and documentation.
✅ Proactively and efficiently address ad-hoc and time-sensitive requests from stakeholders.
✅ Drive technical content deliverables while navigating ambiguity in a high-touch, highly technical environment.
✅ Prioritize fast and efficient project execution, meeting requests with a strong sense of urgency and attention to quality and detail.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a proactive, organized, and adaptable individual who can manage multiple projects and build strong working relationships.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s in English, Communications, or related degree
Experience: 5+ years of experience in corporate communications, content development, or editorial roles, preferably in a fast-paced or technical environment
Required Skills:
- Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills; adapts style to audience; presents data clearly
- Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively, engaging others, listening actively, and responding thoughtfully
- Proficiency in Google Workspace with a strong focus on creating automations and streamlining workflows for greater efficiency
- Meticulous in ensuring clarity and consistency, while staying aligned with brand guidelines
- Strong interpersonal skills and extremely resourceful
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with project management tools
- Familiarity with HTML and CSS
- Bilingual or multilingual
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in corporate communications or content development in a fast-paced or technical environment will be highly competitive for this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $110,000 to $160,000 per year. Pay (base and bonus) may vary depending on job-related skills and experience. A sign-on and discretionary performance bonus may be provided as part of the total compensation package, in addition to company-paid medical and/or other benefits.
Benefits:
- Medical
- Performance Bonus
Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility for project demands
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a Communications Specialist role in the Financial Services sector in New York, NY.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Hudson River Trading (HRT) is a quantitative trading firm that applies a scientific approach to trading financial products. They have built one of the world's most sophisticated computing environments for research and development and are at the forefront of innovation in algorithmic trading.
Company Size: Mid-sized (501-1,000 employees) with a global presence and offices in multiple locations worldwide.
Founded: 2002, with headquarters in New York, NY
Company Description:
- HRT brings together individuals from various disciplines, including mathematics, computer science, physics, engineering, media, and tech, to create a collaborative and innovative work environment.
- The company values openness, transparency, and celebrates great ideas from both veterans and new hires.
- HRT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, with offices around the globe and a strong focus on employee engagement and development.
Company Specialties:
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Trading
- FinTech
Company Website: http://www.hudson-trading.com/
ASSUMPTION: HRT's focus on innovation, technology, and collaboration makes it an attractive employer for individuals seeking a dynamic and challenging work environment in the financial services sector.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-Senior level, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the Communications & Creative Team and across the firm.
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Head of Communications & Creative.
Work Arrangement: On-site, with the possibility of hybrid or remote work for specific projects or tasks, as determined by the team and company policies.
Growth Opportunities:
- Progression within the Communications & Creative Team, such as taking on more responsibilities or moving into a leadership role.
- Expanding into other areas of the business, such as marketing, public relations, or investor relations.
- Cross-functional collaboration and learning opportunities with other teams, such as trading, technology, or business operations.
ASSUMPTION: The Communications Specialist role offers a unique opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, with exposure to various aspects of the business and the chance to make a significant impact on the firm's communications strategy.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative workspace with state-of-the-art technology and amenities.
Office Location(s): 175 Greenwich St, Floor 76, New York, NY 10007, US
Geographic Context:
- New York, NY, is a major financial hub with a diverse and vibrant culture.
- The office is conveniently located in the heart of Lower Manhattan, close to public transportation and various amenities.
- The area offers a mix of urban and outdoor spaces, with numerous parks, museums, and entertainment options nearby.
Work Schedule: Full-time, with core hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but flexibility is required to accommodate project demands and team collaboration.
ASSUMPTION: The New York office provides a dynamic and engaging work environment, with easy access to cultural attractions and networking opportunities within the financial services industry.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Phone or video screen with the Hiring Manager or a member of the Communications & Creative Team
- On-site or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a panel of team members
- Final interview with the Head of Communications & Creative or another senior leader
- Background check and reference check
Key Assessment Areas:
- Writing and editing skills
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Project management and organizational skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with HRT's values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role.
- Showcase your portfolio or examples of your work, if applicable.
- Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions that focus on your communication skills, project management experience, and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
- Research HRT's company culture and values to demonstrate your fit and enthusiasm for the role.
ATS Keywords: Communications, Specialist, Corporate Communications, Content Development, Editorial, Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Technical Communication, Google Workspace, Collaboration, Creativity
ASSUMPTION: HRT's interview process is designed to assess candidates' skills, cultural fit, and potential impact on the firm's communications strategy.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides)
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, JIRA)
- Design and editing tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva)
- HTML and CSS (basic knowledge)
ASSUMPTION: The Communications Specialist role requires proficiency in Google Workspace and familiarity with various project management, design, and editing tools to ensure efficient and effective communication across the firm.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Openness and transparency
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Innovation and continuous learning
- Integrity and ethical decision-making
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion
Work Style:
- Fast-paced and dynamic
- Highly collaborative and team-oriented
- Focused on driving results and delivering excellence
- Adaptable and responsive to changing priorities and demands
- Committed to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you ensure clarity and consistency in your communication, especially when working with a highly technical audience?
- Can you provide an example of a time when you successfully managed multiple projects and met tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment?
- How do you approach building and maintaining strong working relationships with stakeholders, and how do you handle conflicting priorities or expectations?
ASSUMPTION: HRT values candidates who can demonstrate strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment may require exceptional organizational skills and time management.
- Working with a highly technical audience may necessitate a steep learning curve and ongoing effort to stay current with industry trends and developments.
- Balancing the needs of various stakeholders, including internal teams, external partners, and senior leadership, may require strong interpersonal skills and diplomatic communication.
- Adapting to a dynamic work environment and changing priorities may present challenges for individuals who prefer structured or predictable work settings.
ASSUMPTION: The Communications Specialist role offers a unique opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, with exposure to various aspects of the business and the chance to make a significant impact on the firm's communications strategy. However, it also presents challenges that require strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other corporate communications roles, this position places a greater emphasis on managing multiple projects and working with a highly technical audience.
- In the financial services industry, HRT's focus on innovation and technology sets it apart from more traditional firms, offering unique opportunities for growth and development.
- Career paths within HRT may differ from those in more established organizations, with a greater emphasis on cross-functional collaboration and learning opportunities.
ASSUMPTION: The Communications Specialist role at HRT offers a unique blend of responsibilities, requiring strong project management, communication, and technical skills, as well as the ability to thrive in a dynamic and collaborative work environment.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a comprehensive internal communications plan to announce a major organizational change or initiative
- Creating and managing a content calendar for external communications channels, such as social media, blogs, and press releases
- Collaborating with the People Ops team to create engaging and informative content for employee onboarding, training, and development programs
ASSUMPTION: The Communications Specialist role at HRT offers a wide range of projects and initiatives, allowing candidates to gain experience in various aspects of corporate communications and make a significant impact on the firm's overall success.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Communications & Creative Team, and how this role fits into the broader organization?
- How does HRT support the professional development and growth of its employees, particularly within the Communications & Creative Team?
- Can you provide an example of a recent communications initiative that required cross-functional collaboration, and how was the process managed?
- How does HRT ensure that its communications strategy aligns with its overall business objectives and contributes to the firm's success?
- What are the most challenging aspects of working in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment, and how does HRT support its employees in overcoming these challenges?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to understanding the company's culture and values.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role, emphasizing your communication, project management, and technical skills.
- Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions that focus on your communication skills, project management experience, and ability to work in a collaborative environment.
- Research HRT's company culture and values to demonstrate your fit and enthusiasm for the role.
- Follow up with the HRT team within one week of submitting your application to confirm receipt and express your interest in the position.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
