Strategic Communications Manager

About Overland AI: 

Overland AI builds intelligent uncrewed ground systems for defense and national security. Our autonomy stack, OverDrive, is defining the state-of-the-art for perception, planning, and control of uncrewed vehicles, enabling them to traverse and operate in any terrain, regardless of roads, in any condition. OverDrive was purpose-built for the warfighter. Through our work with DARPA and the U.S. Army, we are developing the intelligent capabilities necessary to power modern ground operations, now and for decades to come.  

In a little over a year, the company has been selected for or awarded eight-figures of OTAs and other contracts across multiple services and DoD customers. We have raised over $10M in funding, led by Point72 Ventures, a top multi-billion dollar AUM defense tech investor. 

Role Summary: 

We’re looking for a Strategic Communications Manager to build a comprehensive communications strategy, lead media relations, and grow our own social media channels in order to meet company goals through engagement of target audiences in the defense and national security sector.  

Key Responsibilities: 

• Craft and execute a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with the company’s goals and objectives. 
• Develop narratives and key messaging that resonates with target audiences in defense and national security sector.  
• Lead all media outreach and coordination. Build and maintain relationships with key media outlets, journalists, and industry connections.  
• Prepare and disseminate press releases and other public relations materials. 
• Prepare leadership team for media and speaking engagements.  
• Create and manage social media campaigns and content for the company’s LinkedIn and X profiles.  
• Collaborate cross-functionally with product team to launch products and announce key milestones with maximum amplification. 
• Develop metrics to measure the effectiveness of communications strategies and initiatives. Regularly report on performance and iterate on strategy for continuous improvement. 

Desired Experience & Qualifications: 

• Proven experience setting up and leading Zero to One communications strategies in the defense sector, government public relations, or related field. 
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills. 
• Strong media relations skills and experience developing productive relationships with journalists, preferably bringing existing media contacts and relationships that can continue to be built on.  
• Demonstrated knowledge of the defense industry and federal government’s media ecosystem and an understanding of its unique communication needs and challenges.
• Proficiency in using communication tools and platforms, including social media, content management systems, and analytics tools.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.  
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in ambiguity amid a fast-moving, rapidly growing business.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and develop creative solutions to improve the communications strategy of an early-stage defense startup.  
• Ability to work collaboratively across all internal departments and external stakeholders.  

Location: 

Preferred locations for this position are Seattle or the Washington DC area. 

Benefits: 

Overland AI believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day.  

• The salary range for this position is $115K to $180K annually 
• Equity compensation 
• Best-in-class healthcare, dental and vision plans  
• Unlimited PTO 
• 401k with company match 
• Parental leave