📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Senior Executive Communications Manager - R&D
🔹 Company: Samsara
🔹 Location: Remote - US
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time
🔹 Category: Communications
🔹 Date Posted: May 16, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years
🔹 Remote Status: Remote OK
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Supporting R&D leaders on employee communications
- Executing integrated communication strategies for key R&D leaders
- Developing external communication initiatives to build talent brand
- Collaborating cross-functionally to develop engaging content
- Measuring communication impact and iterating strategies
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Supporting R&D leaders on a wide range of employee communications, including strategic consultation on organizational changes, town halls, AMAs, and crafting written communications to R&D teams
✅ Building and working cross-functionally to execute integrated communication strategies for key R&D SVPs and VPs (focusing on leaders in Safety, Connected Workforce, and Connected Equipment)
✅ Developing and executing external communication initiatives to build the talent brand for select R&D SVPs and VPs through press, social media, events, podcasts, and compelling content (bylines, blogs, etc.)
✅ Collaborating with Design, Product Marketing, and other teams to develop engaging content for keynotes and mainstage sessions
✅ Using a data-driven approach to measure the impact of communication initiatives, iterate on strategies, and collaborate with stakeholders across Communications, Marketing, HR, and R&D
✅ Championing, role modeling, and embedding Samsara’s values and operating principles as the company scales globally and across new offices
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, tactical execution, and cross-functional collaboration, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field
Experience: 8+ years of communications experience, with a focus on employee and/or executive communications, at a high-growth Tech/SaaS company
Required Skills:
- Excellent communication, storytelling, and presentation skills (written, verbal, and visual)
- Proven track record supporting senior leaders with internal and external communications
- Experience partnering cross-functionally to execute communication plans
- Background in developing thought leadership content, employee communications, and ideally some experience with media relations or external branding
- Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working directly with Research & Development organizations
- Familiarity with the enterprise SaaS market
- Experience with event content development and execution
ASSUMPTION: While a degree in a related field is preferred, relevant experience and a strong portfolio may be considered equivalent.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $80,622.50 - $121,950 USD (based on provided range)
Benefits:
- Health Benefits
- Remote and Flexible Working
- Samsara for Good Charity Fund
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on the company's pay transparency statement. Actual offers may vary depending on factors such as the candidate's location and experience.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Software Development
Company Size: 1,001-5,000 employees. This size allows for ample opportunities for growth and collaboration while maintaining a dynamic work environment.
Founded: 2015. Samsara has been growing rapidly and is now a publicly traded company (NYSE: IOT).
Company Description:
- Samsara is the pioneer of the Connected Operations™ Cloud, enabling organizations to harness IoT data to improve their operations.
- The company's mission is to increase the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the operations that power the global economy.
- Samsara serves tens of thousands of customers across North America and Europe, including leading organizations in various industries.
Company Specialties:
- Internet of Things (IoT) data management
- Employee and executive communications
- Cross-functional collaboration
Company Website: http://www.samsara.com
ASSUMPTION: Samsara's focus on IoT data and improving operations makes it an attractive choice for candidates interested in technology and sustainability.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Senior-level role with significant responsibilities and the opportunity to make a substantial impact on the company's communications strategy.
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Head of Communications or a similar senior leader within the Communications department.
Work Arrangement: Remote OK, with the flexibility to work from home or in one of Samsara's global offices.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to grow into a leadership role within the Communications department as the company continues to expand.
- Opportunities to work on high-impact projects and collaborate with senior leaders across the organization.
- Chance to develop expertise in a specific area of communications, such as thought leadership or event planning.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with the opportunity to take on more responsibility as the company continues to grow.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Samsara has offices in various locations worldwide, with a flexible work-from-home policy for eligible employees.
Office Location(s): San Francisco, London, Atlanta, Mexico City, Paris, Amsterdam, Munich, Warsaw, Taipei, and Bengaluru
Geographic Context:
- Samsara's global presence allows for opportunities to work with diverse teams and collaborate across time zones.
- The company's focus on remote work enables employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Samsara's offices are located in major cities with vibrant cultures and ample opportunities for professional development.
Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week), with flexible hours and the option to work remotely.
ASSUMPTION: Samsara's flexible work arrangement and global presence make it an attractive choice for candidates seeking a dynamic, international work environment.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screen with a member of the HR team
- Virtual interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
- Final interview with the Head of Communications or another senior leader
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication skills and ability to craft compelling narratives
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Cross-functional collaboration and project management skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with Samsara's values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role.
- Prepare examples of your communication work, such as press releases, blog posts, or employee newsletters.
- Research Samsara's company culture and mission to demonstrate your enthusiasm and alignment with the organization's values.
- Practice common interview questions and be prepared to discuss your communication strategy for a hypothetical scenario.
ATS Keywords: Executive Communications, R&D, Strategic Planning, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Thought Leadership, Media Relations, Employee Engagement
ASSUMPTION: Samsara's interview process is designed to assess candidates' communication skills, strategic thinking, and cultural fit. Preparation and research are key to success.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets, Slides)
- Project management tools (Asana, Trello, Jira)
- Communication and collaboration platforms (Slack, Microsoft Teams)
- Design tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite)
ASSUMPTION: Samsara uses a mix of industry-standard tools and platforms to facilitate communication and collaboration among its global teams.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Safety: Prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers, and the communities we serve
- Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all aspects of our business
- Welcoming: Fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected
- Innovation: Encouraging creativity and continuous learning to drive progress
- Reliability: Delivering on our promises and maintaining high standards of quality and performance
Work Style:
- Dynamic and fast-paced, with a focus on execution and results
- Collaborative and team-oriented, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional collaboration
- Data-driven and analytical, with a focus on using data to inform decision-making
- Adaptable and resilient, with a willingness to pivot and adjust as needed
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments and enjoy working on multiple projects simultaneously?
- Are you comfortable working remotely and collaborating with global teams across time zones?
- Do you have a proven track record of supporting senior leaders and driving communication strategies?
ASSUMPTION: Samsara's culture is fast-paced, collaborative, and data-driven, with a strong emphasis on innovation and execution. Candidates who thrive in dynamic environments and are comfortable working remotely will likely be a good fit.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously may be challenging for some candidates.
- Working remotely requires strong self-motivation and time management skills.
- Collaborating with global teams may present communication and time zone challenges.
- The fast-paced nature of the role may require flexibility and adaptability.
ASSUMPTION: While Samsara offers numerous benefits and growth opportunities, the role may present challenges related to remote work, time management, and adaptability.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Unlike traditional communications roles, this position focuses specifically on supporting R&D leaders and executing communication strategies for key R&D SVPs and VPs.
- Samsara's focus on IoT data and improving operations sets it apart from other tech companies, offering unique opportunities for candidates interested in this field.
- Career progression in this role may lead to leadership positions within the Communications department or other areas of the organization, depending on the candidate's skills and interests.
ASSUMPTION: This role is unique in its focus on R&D communications and offers a distinct opportunity for candidates interested in this specialized area of communications.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing a comprehensive communication plan for an upcoming product launch, including press releases, blog posts, and social media campaigns
- Planning and executing a virtual town hall for R&D employees, featuring presentations from senior leaders and Q&A sessions
- Crafting a thought leadership article for an industry publication, showcasing Samsara's innovative approach to IoT data management
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and initiatives that a Senior Executive Communications Manager might undertake in this role.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the current communication strategies for the R&D department, and how this role will contribute to their evolution?
- How does Samsara support the professional development and growth of its employees, particularly in the Communications department?
- What are the most significant challenges facing the R&D department, and how can effective communication strategies help address them?
- How does Samsara foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning, and what opportunities are there for growth and development in this role?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days, and how will success be measured?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful, informed questions demonstrates your interest in the role and allows you to better understand the organization's priorities and culture.
📌 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 examples of your communication work, such as press releases, blog posts, or employee newsletters.
- Research Samsara's company culture and mission to demonstrate your enthusiasm and alignment with the organization's values.
- Practice common interview questions and be prepared to discuss your communication strategy for a hypothetical scenario.
- Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within one week of submitting your application to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
