Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution Networks is comprised of the most admired portfolio of channels and networks, enteraining and informing well over 200 million viewers across the US each month as well as countless fans, followers and consumers throughout every stage of the audience journey with our broadcast, cable, and digital platforms. The DMED Networks group has oversight of the commercialization and business strategy for the Companys linear multi-platform television channels, including ABC broadcast network and eight ABC Owned Television Stations, Disney Channels, ESPN, FX, Freeform and National Geographic Network, Media and Magazine. The team also works closely with The Walt Disney Company's creative content organizations (Sports, Entertainment, Film Studios) to determine content requirements and programming budgets and leading the acquisition strategy for 2nd run and library content across the portfolio of channels, in partnership with Disney's DTC streaming teams


We are looking for an experienced communications professional to join our Corporate Communications team at DMED Networks as the **Director of Publicity and Communications for ABC Owned Television Stations** (ABC OTV) across the eight owned markets: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Houston, Raleigh-Durham, and Fresno.


This position would serve as the primary communications strategist to build a proactive media engagement and publicity strategy for group-wide and individual stations that build on the strength of the ABC OTV brand. The role will partner closely on the business strategy and development of key initiatives including the award-winning Localish programming, data journalism, community journalism, and multiplatform innovation that are transforming the local news industry. The role will be responsible for leading communications for key executive speaking engagements, award nominations, and public relations opportunities.


The ideal candidate will be a strategic, out-of-the-box thinker who is skilled at delivering pristine


communications assets, effectively pitching stories for key trade and industry outlets, and finding creative opportunities for differentiated storytelling. The role must demonstrate the ability to quickly learn complex business issues, and find creative ways to share the work of ABC OTVS.


**Duties, Responsibilities and Expected Contributions**


+ Serve as the communications partner for senior ABC owned television station executives, including the President of ABC OTV and owned station General Managers.

+ Work closely with business and content development executives to build a proactive engagement and publicity roadmap.

+ Manage group-wide and individual executive nominations for leading industry awards.

+ Advise on group-level digital, web, and social activations for special projects and strategic initiatives.

+ Support media relations, public affairs and other communications initiatives that require high-level written deliverables. Assist with ensuring synergistic messaging and brand consistency across all communications channels.


+ Oversee development and distribution of press materials, key messages, Q&A documents.

+ Build and maintain relationships with journalists, online influencers and key internal stakeholders.

+ Respond to media inquiries and act as company spokesperson as required.

+ Communicate regular media and issues updates to senior management.


+ Serve as a key member of the global corporate communications team to support media relations and communications needs for other areas of Walt Disney Television as needed.


**Desired Skills and Experience**


a) Experience Required


The position requires a minimum of 8 10 years of communications experience. Experience in the television/news industry is preferred, though not required. The ideal candidate has a strong track record for developing and driving a comprehensive communications strategy, and delivering high-quality speeches and presentations. All applicants for the position must submit a portfolio of material to demonstrate mastery of a broad range of communications assets. BA is mandatory, advanced degree is preferred.


b) Functional Knowledge and Business Expertise Required


This is a communications position that will operate at the highest levels of ABC Owned Television Stations and Walt Disney Television. The ideal candidate must possess the ability to keep up with local, national, and global current events to find opportunities to drive forward strategic presence on behalf of ABC Owned Television Stations, while always being cognizant of the context of being a part of the larger global Disney brand.


**Job ID:** 10010468

**Location:** Burbank,California

**Job Posting Company:**
The Walt Disney Company and its Affiliated Companies are Equal Employment Opportunity employers and welcome all job seekers including individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or apply for a position, email Candidate.Accommodations@Disney.com with your request. This email address is not for general employment inquiries or correspondence. We will only respond to those requests that are related to the accessibility of the online application system due to a disability.