Manager, Internal Communications

Manager, Internal Communications

AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve. So what do you say? Are you ready to be part of something big?

At AutoNation, motivating our Associates and enhancing collaboration throughout the enterprise is a top priority. As a Manager, Internal Communications, you will produce and deliver messages and campaigns on behalf of leadership and facilitate dialogue with the people who drive success for our Company: our Associates. The Manager, Internal Communications, develops and executes communications strategies that inform internal audiences about business objectives, initiatives, and results as well as accomplishments, recognition programs and other offerings. Communication takes place via several channels to include print, video, electronic, and internal meetings.

In this role, you will draft and/or edit speeches/scripts, PowerPoint presentations, stakeholder email communications, articles, memos/letters, FAQs, and other correspondence. You will also manage communications via the company Intranet, plan meetings and events, and enhance processes related to communications.

Your professional demeanor, excellent interpersonal skills, and high level of responsiveness and urgency make you a valued teammate as you interact with senior level executives throughout the organization. You will also have opportunities to work on cross-functional teams driving key initiatives to provide assistance relative to internal communications.

Organizational Relationships:

Reports directly to the Sr. Manager, Communications

Interacts daily with other departments, to include Operations (Sales, Service, and Marketing), Finance Operations, Human Resources, Benefits, Investor Relations, and key Corporate Executives.

Main contact for vendor partners.

Job Responsibilities:

Work to develop and implement overall communications strategy for internal audiences with the goal of effectively promoting the vision of AutoNation, increasing visibility, and distinguishing AutoNation as an industry leader.

Develop, manage, and distribute internal email communications for 24,000+ Associates.

Maximize use of key communications channels to promote and publicize the work of AutoNation, including developing story ideas and drafting articles.

Internal communications theme development; preparation and coordination of presentations, scripts and other communications needs; participant rosters; logistics; travel schedules; internal event management; budget tracking; coordination with Human Resources, Marketing and Investor Relations as needed.

Owns project deliverables and act as a liaison to other departments.

Create and manage release dates for recurring internal communications for distribution to all 24,000+ Associates.

Manage projects with high executive visibility and ensure accuracy, execution and meet deadlines, including the Executive and CEO level events.

Outline and continually update project plans, timelines, delivery calendar, and communications materials.

Facilitate/coordinate internal events such as the annual Retailer Leadership Conference, Headquarter Associate Meetings, virtual meetings, and on-site and off-site events.

Main point of contact for community relations and partnerships team to develop internal campaigns focused on AutoNation's charitable giving.

Generate ad hoc reports, analyses, and recommendations to optimize employee engagement.

Manage postings and engagements within company's internal social networking service.

Spearhead process improvement. Identify opportunities to streamline communication functions from an efficiency and cost standpoint, as well as methods to increase effectiveness of communications (format, frequency, content, etc.).

Support the Sr. Manager, Communications on major initiatives, events, presentations, and crisis communications.

Develop and create engaging messaging for our stores that align with organizational goals and values.

Be a Brand Ambassador responsible for creating awareness of the AutoNation brand and its affiliate campaigns and initiatives.

Qualifications:

Minimum 5 years' related work experience including involvement with senior leaders and executives

Advanced MS Office skills, with a strong command of Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint

Exceptionally strong communication and interpersonal skills, preferably with experience in a client-facing or customer service capacity.

Ability to work independently.

Managerial experience preferred.

Exceptional grammar and written communications

Responds to projects and emails with a high level of urgency

Experience working in a fast-moving, demanding environment with proven track record of meeting tight deadlines and ensuring timely follow-ups with inbound questions and requests

Ability to communicate effectively with others across all levels of the organization, including excellent interpersonal, presentation and delivery skills

Ability to effectively formulate and execute messages and strategies using a variety of communication vehicles

Proven project management skills, including time management, goal-setting, multitasking and prioritization

Good data analysis, problem-solving and critical thinking skills

Professional understanding of crisis management

Strong attention to detail

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing or business

Ability to travel (less than 20%)

Exciting Benefits and Perks Await You:

• Competitive compensation and 401k matching
• Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits.
• Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear
• Access amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailers
• Join our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwide

AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.