📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Lead, Internal Communications
🔹 Company: Klaviyo
🔹 Location: San Francisco, California, United States
🔹 Job Type: Full-time, On-site
🔹 Category: Marketing & Communications
🔹 Date Posted: May 7, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Mid-Senior level
🔹 Remote Status: On-site (Remote OK)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and driving executive communications strategy for Klaviyo’s CTO and R&D leadership
- Crafting consistent narratives for internal audiences across various channels
- Collaborating with stakeholders to execute company-wide programs
- Evolving communication channels to effectively deliver messages
- Partnering with cross-functional teams to ensure strategic priorities are communicated internally
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong background in R&D communications and a deep understanding of technical language. The ideal candidate will have experience working with engineers, developers, and other technical teams.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Develop and drive the executive communications strategy for Klaviyo’s CTO and R&D leadership that reflect consistent and cohesive narratives for internal audiences
✅ Build and manage robust internal communications calendar based on business priorities, announcements, and key strategic objectives
✅ Collaborate with other stakeholders to execute on company-wide programs, including annual Company Kickoff, All Hands, Ask Me Anything Sessions, and Fireside Chats that build trust and connection
✅ Evolve existing and create new comms channels and tactics that deliver the right message, to the right audience, and the right time
✅ Outline and develop impactful speeches, keynote presentations, and talking points for internal and external audiences, including annual customer and partner events
✅ Collaborate with the PR team to identify thought leadership and speaking engagement opportunities at industry conferences and events
✅ Partner cross-functionally with other teams in and outside of marketing to ensure strategic priorities are being communicated effectively internally
✅ Lead and execute executive thought leadership and presence across social platforms based on Klaviyo brand, exec goals, and business priorities
✅ Partner with Human Resources Business Partners (HRBPs) to create culture-building programs and content across the department, including employee spotlights, feedback channels, survey analysis, and milestone celebrations
✅ Measure and evaluate comms impact and effectiveness and adjust strategy accordingly
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of collaboration and adaptability. The ideal candidate will be comfortable navigating ambiguity and balancing planned communications with urgent business needs.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field
Experience: 5-10 years of experience in internal communications, with a focus on R&D or technical organizations
Required Skills:
- Proven experience in R&D communications and a deep understanding of technical language
- Excellent writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to adapt tone and voice for different audiences
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to set expectations and deliver consistently against them
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders
- Proven experience in developing and executing communications strategies
- Familiarity with Slack, Microsoft Office Suite, and other relevant communication tools
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with Asana or similar project management tools
- Fluency in additional languages
- Experience with data visualization tools
ASSUMPTION: While a degree in a related field is preferred, relevant experience and a strong portfolio may be considered in lieu of formal education.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $116,000 - $174,000 USD per year
Benefits:
- Annual cash bonus plan
- Variable compensation for sales and customer success roles
- Equity
- Sign-on payments
- Comprehensive range of health, welfare, and wellbeing benefits based on eligibility
Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the San Francisco Bay Area. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, skills, and other factors.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Klaviyo is a leading marketing services company, specializing in customer relationship management (CRM) software for B2C brands. They empower businesses to know, engage, and grow their audience like never before.
Company Size: Klaviyo has 1,001-5,000 employees, making it a mid-sized company. This size allows for a structured yet flexible work environment, with ample opportunities for career growth and development.
Founded: Klaviyo was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with additional offices in London, Sydney, and Denver.
Company Description:
- Klaviyo is the only CRM built for B2C brands, combining marketing automation, analytics, and customer service into one unified solution
- Powered by its built-in data platform and AI insights, Klaviyo helps brands know their customers and grow faster
- With data all in one place, businesses can engage their audience and drive revenue more effectively
Company Specialties:
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software
- Marketing Automation
- AI-driven Insights
- Customer Service
- Data Platform
Company Website: www.klaviyo.com
ASSUMPTION: Klaviyo's focus on B2C brands and AI-driven insights sets it apart in the CRM industry. This focus allows the company to offer innovative solutions to its clients and fosters a dynamic and innovative work environment.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the mid-senior level, with the potential for growth into a director or manager role with the right experience and performance.
Reporting Structure: The Lead, Internal Communications will report directly to the Vice President of Communications and work closely with the CTO and other R&D leaders.
Work Arrangement: This role is on-site in San Francisco, California, with the option to work remotely.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to grow into a director or manager role within the communications department
- Opportunities to work on high-impact projects and initiatives, driving business results and career growth
- Chance to learn from and collaborate with experienced leaders in the field of communications and marketing
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate for this role will have a strong background in R&D communications and a deep understanding of technical language. They will also be a strategic thinker with a proven track record of driving results through effective communication strategies.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Klaviyo's San Francisco office is a collaborative and modern workspace, designed to foster creativity and productivity.
Office Location(s): 1615 Platte St, Denver, Colorado 80202, US
Geographic Context:
- The San Francisco Bay Area is known for its vibrant tech industry and diverse cultural scene
- The region offers a high cost of living but also high salaries and ample job opportunities
- San Francisco is home to many leading tech companies, providing ample networking and career growth opportunities
Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with flexibility for remote work.
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate for this role will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic, and collaborative environment. They will also be able to balance planned communications with urgent business needs and adapt to changes in priorities and timelines.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screen with the HR team
- On-site or virtual interview with the hiring manager and other team members
- Final round interview with the Vice President of Communications
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication skills, both written and verbal
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Cultural fit and alignment with Klaviyo's values
- Technical knowledge and understanding of R&D communications
- Ability to work collaboratively and build relationships with stakeholders
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Be prepared to discuss your communication strategy for a hypothetical scenario involving Klaviyo's CTO and R&D leadership
- Showcase your understanding of Klaviyo's business and the R&D communications landscape
- Demonstrate your ability to think strategically and adapt to changing priorities
ATS Keywords: R&D Communications, Executive Communications, Strategic Communications, Internal Communications, Communications Strategy, Stakeholder Management, Technical Language, AI-driven Insights, CRM Software, Marketing Services
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in R&D communications and a deep understanding of technical language. They will also be a strategic thinker with a proven track record of driving results through effective communication strategies.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Slack
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Asana (or similar project management tools)
- Data visualization tools (optional)
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable using a variety of communication and project management tools, as well as data visualization tools to support their work.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Customer-centric: Klaviyo is committed to understanding and serving the needs of its customers, both internal and external
- Data-driven: Klaviyo uses data to inform decision-making and drive business results
- Innovative: Klaviyo fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement
- Collaborative: Klaviyo values teamwork and cross-functional collaboration to achieve its goals
- Inclusive: Klaviyo is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment
Work Style:
- Fast-paced and dynamic, with a focus on execution and results
- Collaborative and team-oriented, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional communication and coordination
- Data-driven and analytical, with a focus on using data to inform decision-making and drive business results
- Adaptable and flexible, with a willingness to pivot and adjust based on changing priorities and feedback
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Klaviyo's customer-centric approach, and how have you demonstrated this in your previous roles?
- How do you approach working with technical teams and understanding their unique needs and perspectives?
- How do you balance strategic thinking with the need for quick execution and adaptability in a fast-paced environment?
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be a strong cultural fit for Klaviyo, with a deep understanding of and alignment with the company's values and work style.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- The fast-paced and dynamic nature of the role may require long hours and tight deadlines at times
- The need to balance planned communications with urgent business needs may require flexibility and adaptability
- The role may require working with a diverse range of stakeholders, each with unique needs and perspectives
- The role may involve managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and time management
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic, and collaborative environment, and able to balance planned communications with urgent business needs.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Unlike traditional communications roles, this role requires a deep understanding of R&D communications and technical language
- This role is unique in its focus on driving internal communications strategy for Klaviyo’s CTO and R&D leadership
- Career path comparison: This role may lead to a director or manager position within the communications department, with the potential to transition into a broader marketing or leadership role
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in R&D communications and a deep understanding of technical language. They will also be a strategic thinker with a proven track record of driving results through effective communication strategies.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy for Klaviyo’s CTO and R&D leadership, including key messaging, channels, and tactics
- Collaborating with stakeholders to plan and execute high-impact events, such as the annual Company Kickoff, All Hands, and Fireside Chats
- Creating and implementing a feedback system to gather and act on employee feedback, improving internal communication and engagement
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience working on similar projects and a proven track record of driving results through effective communication strategies.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- How does this role fit into Klaviyo's overall communications strategy, and how will my work impact the broader organization?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- How does Klaviyo support the professional development and growth of its employees, particularly in the communications department?
- What are the key challenges facing Klaviyo's CTO and R&D leadership, and how can effective communications strategies help address them?
- How does Klaviyo measure the success of its internal communications initiatives, and how can I contribute to improving these metrics?
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be curious and proactive, asking insightful questions to better understand the role and the company.
📌 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
- Prepare for your phone or video screen by researching Klaviyo's business and the R&D communications landscape
- Practice your communication strategy for a hypothetical scenario involving Klaviyo’s CTO and R&D leadership
- Follow up with the HR team one week after your final round interview to inquire about the status of your application
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
