Title:  Director, External Communications

Job Description

The Director of External Communications will provide strategic counsel and lead the development and execution of externally facing communications strategies, plans, and tactics to positively promote Aramark’s brand and protect its reputation. This role requires a seasoned communications professional with expertise in media relations, issues management, project management, and people management who is able to function independently and with sound business judgment, delivering both strategic and tactical results.

The successful candidate will bring experience across diverse disciplines, including writing and editing, news content development, managing teams, crisis and issues management, and stakeholder engagement. This individual must thrive in high-pressure environments, inspire confidence among executives and clients, and ensure consistency of messaging and execution across the organization.

Job Responsibilities

•    Report to the VP of External Communications and develop and implement external communications strategies that elevate Aramark’s brand and safeguard its reputation.
•    Lead media relations efforts, including proactive outreach, managing interviews, setting expectations, and handling sensitive issues with tact and professionalism.
•    Serve as a trusted advisor to senior executives, providing coaching and building sponsorship for communications strategies.
•    Research industry trends and identify compelling themes to position Aramark as a thought leader.
•    Create and edit sophisticated issue-response materials, including media statements, FAQs, and talking points.
•    Manage crisis and issues communications across mainstream and social media platforms.
•    Oversee project management for multiple complex initiatives, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with business objectives.
•    Develop and monitor communications metrics to measure reach and impact.
•    Media train spokespeople and manage external events.
•    Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align company interests with client and front-line team needs.
•    Demonstrate flexibility and resiliency in navigating challenges and pursuing innovative solutions.

Reports to: Vice President, External Communications
•    Key relationships: Sector Presidents, Regional Vice Presidents, Legal, Investor Relations, Community Relations, Marketing
•    Requires in-office presence in Philadelphia four days per week.
•    Knowledge of the hospitality industry and experience promoting corporate community relations activities is a plus.

Qualifications

•    Bachelor’s degree required.
•    Minimum 10 years of experience in communications, with a strong focus on media relations.
•    Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects with urgency and precision.
•    Exceptional writing and content creation skills; ability to produce clear, compelling materials under tight deadlines.
•    Strong knowledge of social media channels and tactics to protect and elevate brand reputation.
•    Familiarity with AI tools for public relations and experience leveraging them effectively.
•    Demonstrated success advising and influencing senior executives.
•    Experience in both corporate and agency environments preferred.

About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

About Aramark

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.