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Introduction

At IBM, we believe technology shapes the world, and we are a catalyst for that innovation and creativity. We are on the forefront of groundbreaking change – improving businesses, society, and the human condition. As a leader in Hybrid Cloud and AI, we are leading the charge in a world-wide digital transformation.

Our Communications team tells this story and is responsible for positioning IBM as a relevant, influential player in the market. We elevate IBM’s brand, capture the market’s attention, and articulate our point of view for clients, partners, the media, and other IBMers. As part of our team, you'll be surrounded by bright minds and keen collaborators – always willing to help and be helped – as you apply passion to work that will compel our audience to choose IBM.

When you join IBM, you join a culture of openness, collaboration and trust. You join a team of IBMers who are helping technology support a positive global transformation. So, join us and experience a place where you can co-create your learning and opportunities. A place where teamwork and unique ideas are treasured. A place where you can bring innovation to life.

Your role and responsibilities

IBM is seeking a motivated and experienced Cross Communications Lead to join the Corporate Affairs team to orchestrate IBM Communications across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), working closely with the EMEA Communications Director and the Communications teams in market.

Based in Madrid, Spain this person will work directly with business and communications leaders as a trusted strategic advisor while cultivating an engaged community of IBMers. They will collaborate with multiple and diverse internal and external stakeholders including clients, partners subject matter experts, business leaders, journalists, influencers and employees to tell the IBM story.

The role acts as a steward for IBM's brand and reputation and ensures consistency of messaging across all internal and external audiences. This includes the protection and enhancement of the IBM brand through the application of sound issues and crisis management practices.

Core responsibilities for the role include:

• Working with the EMEA Communications Director to define and execute the Communications strategy and tactics for the region, coordinating the teams across EMEA.
• The professional develops and executes a Communications strategy to support business objectives and key plays, such as Signature Moments. Develop a comprehensive Communications strategy to support the business objectives at a Geo, market or country, and aligned to the national agenda.
• Work in collaboration with Government & Regulatory Affairs, Corporate Social Responsibility, Sales, and the Business Partner organization. Contribute to building and sustaining a cohesive team environment by providing clarity, direction, fostering a culture of excellence, cross collaboration and recognition.

• Providing strategic guidance to senior leaders on fast-breaking developments and longer-term market awareness opportunities.
• Coordinating across IBM business units, as well as with outside agencies, to develop and execute communications strategies, activities and plans.
• Working closely with IBM EMEA spokespeople and subject matter experts to gather stories and information that supports external positioning, as well as internal engagement and pride.
• Taking a data driven approach to analyze audiences, engagement and results to understand strategic positioning, key messages and impact of activities. Evolving activities and tactics where needed.

Required education

Bachelor's Degree

Required technical and professional expertise

• Over 10 years communications experience in Europe. Experience in Middle East and Africa is also valued.

• Significant experience and proven results in a communications leadership position, ideally within the tech industry. Agency or in-house.
• Completely fluent in English. Additional EMEA languages are a plus.
• Ability to operate and communicate in complex, multistakeholder, and multicultural environments – which takes effective collaboration with peers at the country, regional, and global levels.
• Positive can-do attitude with creativity and judgement when clearing obstacles; innovation around solutions; perseverance to fast-fail and see it through success.
• Self-starter, preemptively identifying and handling risks, raising issues when needed to remove blockers.

Preferred technical and professional experience

• Creative, clear strategic thinker & storyteller with strong research, writing and editing skills and the ability to translate core ideas into a wide range of relevant, compelling communications, including speeches, visual presentations, digital assets, etc.

• Ability to apply IBM's strategy, values, and brand to shape perception and build advocacy both inside and outside IBM in EMEA.
• Adept at collaborating and working well with people across the organization and able to build cross-disciplinary networks of SMEs to contribute detailed content and expertise as needed for effective communications.
• Strong executive presence and business acumen with the ability to ‘take a seat at the table’ with senior business leaders to provide advice and counsel and articulate an informed point-of-view.
• Track record of successfully delivering quality content consistently, ethically, professionally and on time (in the face of demanding deadlines), while always demonstrating discretion and maintaining confidentiality.
• Knowledgeable about broader internal and external communications trends and how different mediums are evolving.
• Solid and proven relationship with major SPGI media and journalists.

We offer a dynamic blend of personal flexibility and a thriving in-office environment. This role requires three days of in-office presence per week, with two days of remote work.