Global Head of Communications, Senior Vice President

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Global Head of Communications, Senior Vice President

🔹 Company: State Street

🔹 Location: Boston, Massachusetts, United States

🔹 Job Type: On-site, Full-time

🔹 Category: Financial Services

🔹 Date Posted: April 7, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 15+ years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Leading and executing a strategic external and internal communications program
• Driving integrated communication activities including internal, executive, client, crisis, and social communications
• Managing reputation management initiatives, including global Public Relations (PR) program and Global Events management
• Collaborating closely with senior leadership to craft clear, consistent, and compelling messages
• Fostering employee engagement and promoting understanding of key business objectives

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of the financial services industry and landscape, as well as organizational leadership to drive a highly visible communications strategy in partnership with senior leaders and business partners.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Develop and execute a strategic approach to integrated communications that amplifies State Street’s reputation through clear and impactful communications, events, and social media engagement

✅ Craft high-level narratives that underpin our strategy, elevate our external presence, and deliver successful results and outcomes

✅ Cascade a communication strategy that ensures key messages are aligned with our purpose at both corporate and individual levels

✅ Optimize a corporate message map to ensure consistent, clear, and strategic communication across all internal and external channels

✅ Execute the internal communications strategy for State Street to ensure employees understand our purpose, strategy, and associated priorities so they can execute in support of our clients and shareholders, as well as amplify State Street’s culture, benefits, and talent focus

✅ Enhance the employees’ and clients’ experience with State Street through a high-quality and differentiated global events program

✅ Lead a team of diverse, skilled communicators dedicated to internal and external communication activities and manage resources to deliver a robust presence in an efficient and timely manner

✅ Provide strategic and innovative direction and management of global PR and social media programs and teams, internal communications plan and program, communications strategy for our clients and internal client-facing teams, external sponsorship strategy, messaging, positioning, and promotion, and strategic positioning of executive platforms both internally and externally

✅ Develop strong relationships with local, national, and global media and cultivate strong relationships with internal stakeholders, including key executive members, business leaders, Global Human Resources, Global Marketing colleagues, Thought Leadership, and Investor Relations to develop new ways to influence the market’s perception of State Street

✅ Set and deliver outcome-based Communications key results and measure and track against KPIs

ASSUMPION: This role requires a strong understanding of the financial services industry and landscape, as well as excellent verbal/written communication skills to engage both internal and external stakeholders, with the ability to articulate complex topics clearly. Deep experience in reputation and earned media, including leading crisis and corporate communications (both public relations and social media), is essential.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field. A Master's degree would be an asset.

Experience: 15+ years of experience in the institutional financial services industry, with the ability to understand changing market dynamics and translate them into communication strategy

Required Skills:

• Excellent verbal/written communication skills to engage both internal and external stakeholders, with the ability to articulate complex topics clearly
• Deep experience in reputation and earned media, including leading crisis and corporate communications (both public relations and social media)
• Ability to bring innovative ideas on how to effectively communicate with new generations of leaders
• Strong track record of connecting the dots to inform a larger strategy while maintaining an execution-oriented mindset
• Strong relationship management skills with the ability to influence and gain stakeholder buy-in, globally
• Experience working in a large, complex, global organization with multiple legal entity structures and business lines
• Strong leader and builder of diverse and collaborative teams
• Ability to manage projects across multiple stakeholders, timelines, and key deliverables
• Hands-on leader, successful in setting strategy and rolling up sleeves to support execution
• Demonstrated track record of achievement with respect to driving communication programs
• Role model for culture and desired behaviors
• Seasoned leader in driving positive change

Preferred Skills:

• Fluency in multiple languages
• Experience working with global teams

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of the financial services industry and landscape, as well as excellent communication skills. A strong background in reputation management and the ability to influence stakeholders globally is essential.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $225,000 - $337,500 Annual

Benefits:

• Competitive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plans, including 401(k) and pension plans
• Generous time off and paid holidays
• Employee assistance programs
• Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts and wellness programs

Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with flexibility for the role

ASSUMPTION: The salary range quoted above applies to the role in the primary location specified. If the candidate would ultimately work outside of the primary location above, the applicable range could differ.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Financial Services. State Street is a leading provider of asset management, investment research and trading, and investment servicing to institutional investors worldwide.

Company Size: 10,000+ employees. As a large, global organization, State Street offers a wide range of opportunities and resources for professional growth and development.

Founded: 1792. State Street has a long history and established reputation in the financial services industry.

Company Description:

• State Street partners with institutional investors to provide comprehensive financial services, including investment management, investment research and trading, and investment servicing

• The company works with a wide range of clients, including asset managers, asset owners, alternative asset managers, insurance companies, pension funds, and official institutions

• State Street is committed to doing what it takes to help clients perform better — now and in the future

Company Specialties:

• Investment Management
• Custodian
• ETF
• Financial products
• Fund Accounting
• Relationship Management
• Research
• Trading
• Investment Servicing

Company Website: http://www.statestreet.com

ASSUMPTION: State Street is a well-established and reputable company in the financial services industry, with a strong track record of success and a commitment to helping clients achieve their investment goals.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Senior leadership role, reporting directly to the Chief Communications Officer or another senior executive

Reporting Structure: This role will likely have direct reports, including managers of internal and external communications, PR, and events teams

Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time, with flexibility for the role

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to advance to a Chief Communications Officer or similar role
• Opportunities to lead and manage larger teams and budgets
• Chance to gain experience in a global, complex organization and work with senior leaders

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with the opportunity to make a substantial impact on the company's communications strategy and reputation.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, professional office environment with collaborative workspaces and state-of-the-art technology

Office Location(s): 1 Lincoln St, Boston, MA 02111, USA

Geographic Context:

• Boston is a major financial hub with a diverse range of industries and companies
• The city offers a high cost of living but also high earning potential
• Boston has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and sports teams

Work Schedule: Typical full-time workweek, with flexibility for the role

ASSUMPTION: The work environment at State Street is professional and collaborative, with a focus on teamwork and innovation. The company offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities for professional growth and development.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application and resume submission
• Phone or video screen with the hiring manager
• On-site or virtual interview with senior leadership
• Final round interviews with key stakeholders
• Background check and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

• Communication skills and ability to articulate complex topics clearly
• Strategic thinking and ability to develop and execute communication strategies
• Leadership and team management skills
• Understanding of the financial services industry and landscape
• Cultural fit and alignment with State Street's values and mission

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
• Be prepared to discuss your communication strategy and leadership approach in detail
• Research State Street's mission, values, and recent news to demonstrate your understanding of the company
• Prepare examples of your communication successes and challenges, and how you overcame them

ATS Keywords: Strategic Communications, Public Relations, Crisis Management, Social Media, Reputation Management, Employee Engagement, Event Management, Stakeholder Management, Team Leadership, Project Management, Narrative Development, Media Relations, Cross-Functional Communication, Market Perception, Innovative Communication, Organizational Leadership

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may involve multiple rounds of interviews and assessments, with a focus on communication skills, strategic thinking, and leadership potential.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
• PR and media monitoring tools (e.g., Mention, Brand24)
• Communication and collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams)

ASSUMPTION: This role may require experience with specific communication and project management tools, as well as familiarity with the financial services industry's technology landscape.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Integrity
• Commitment to Clients
• Collaboration
• Inclusion
• Accountability
• Respect

Work Style:

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Results-driven and focused on delivering outcomes
• Adaptable and open to change
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively in a global, matrixed organization

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you align with State Street's commitment to integrity and ethical conduct in your communication strategies?
• Describe a time when you had to adapt your communication approach due to a significant change in the market or organization. How did you ensure your message remained clear and effective?
• How do you foster a culture of inclusion and diversity within your team, and how does this impact your communication strategies?

ASSUMPTION: State Street values candidates who demonstrate strong alignment with the company's values and work style, as well as a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple stakeholders with competing priorities and expectations
• Balancing the need for strategic, long-term communication planning with immediate, tactical demands
• Adapting to a dynamic and fast-paced work environment, with changing market conditions and organizational priorities
• Ensuring consistent and clear communication across multiple channels and audiences
• Managing a large team with diverse skills and backgrounds, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture

ASSUMPTION: This role presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth, requiring strong leadership, communication, and strategic skills to succeed.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to other senior communication roles, this position offers a broader scope of responsibilities, including global events management and reputation management initiatives
• This role requires a strong understanding of the financial services industry and landscape, as well as the ability to influence stakeholders globally
• Career path comparison: This role can serve as a stepping stone to a Chief Communications Officer or similar role, with the opportunity to lead and manage larger teams and budgets

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential and unique challenges compared to similar communication roles in other industries or organizations.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a comprehensive communication strategy for a major corporate merger or acquisition
• Managing a high-profile crisis communication situation, such as a data breach or regulatory investigation
• Launching a global brand awareness campaign to elevate State Street's market presence and reputation
• Creating and implementing an internal communication strategy to improve employee engagement and understanding of key business objectives

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse and complex nature of the communication challenges faced by this role, requiring strong leadership, strategic thinking, and adaptability.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the company's communication priorities for the next 12-24 months, and how this role will contribute to achieving those objectives?
• How does the company support the professional development and growth of its communication team members?
• Can you provide examples of how the company has adapted its communication strategies in response to market changes or industry trends?
• How does the company measure the success of its communication initiatives, and how can I contribute to improving those metrics?
• What are the key challenges facing the communication team in the near future, and how can I help address them?

ASSUMPTION: Asking these questions demonstrates your interest in the role and the company's success, as well as your commitment to driving meaningful communication outcomes.

📌 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, with a focus on communication strategy, leadership, and industry-specific knowledge
• Prepare for interviews by researching State Street's mission, values, and recent news, and developing examples of your communication successes and challenges
• Follow up with the hiring manager after your interview to express your interest in the role and reiterate your qualifications
• If you are offered the position, carefully review the offer and negotiate terms as needed, considering factors such as salary, benefits, and work-life balance

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.