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Head of External Communications

El Segundo, CA

We’re on a mission to make the skies safe and accessible for everyone. Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during standard flight operations, inclement weather, and emergencies. Our SkyOS solution, rigorously and relentlessly developed by skilled and dedicated Skyrysers, is the key to unlocking this unbounded future. Our technology, combined with our commitment to saving lives and our passion for aviation, will empower everyone to experience the joy and freedom of flight.

HEAD OF EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS - EL SEGUNDO, CA / HYBRID
The Head of External Communications will focus on building and maintaining a strong brand presence within the DoW, government stakeholders, and the broader aerospace community. The ideal candidate is a seasoned communications professional with experience in defense, public relations, and strategic messaging. In this role, you will continually strengthen the brand voice and ensure a strong, integrated brand presence across all media and events.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop and lead a comprehensive external communications and digital strategy that advances corporate objectives, with a particular emphasis on positioning the company within the DoW and aerospace ecosystem.
  • Build and manage a proactive media relations program, cultivating relationships with defense-focused journalists, trade publications, and mainstream outlets to drive strategic coverage and shape industry perception.
  • Manage all aspects of PR activities, including drafting press releases, coordinating interviews, and organizing press events. Tracking and analyzing emergent issues and developing guidance on when/where to proactively and reactively engage
  • Own crisis communications planning and serve as the lead strategic voice in high-stakes situations.
  • Oversee the development of executive thought leadership content, including op-eds, speeches, and briefing materials, and build a broader bench of internal spokespeople beyond the C-suite.
  • Lead digital communication efforts to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms, targeting both defense and commercial audiences.
  • Represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and government briefings to promote the brand and its mission.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Sales, BD, Product, Government Relations, and HR to ensure messaging alignment across the organization.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 7+ years of communications and brand experience, across all channels & media, with an emphasis on new media and integrated work, preferably within the aerospace or defense sectors.
  • Proven track record of developing and executing strategic communication plans.
  • Deep understanding of earned media and how to develop, execute, and deliver ideas and campaigns with newsworthy stories at the core.
  • Ability to understand cutting edge technology and translate it into accessible, human-centric, and highly accurate terms.
  • Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms, including social media management and analytics.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Understanding of the DoD and aerospace landscape, including terminology, structure, and key stakeholders.
  • Energetic and positive, with a passion for great brands and breakthrough storytelling, along with a love for teamwork.
  • Collaborative and ego-free with an ability to wear a number of hats, ensuring that great ideas can come from anywhere.

WHY SKYRYSE?

  • The opportunity to change the world through improving aviation safety and accessibility .
  • Salary: $150,000 - $200,000
  • Valuable stock option plan.
  • Heavily subsidized medical, dental and vision plans.
  • Full-time employees are eligible for 20 days of paid time off (PTO) and 5 sick days annually.  PTO and sick days must be used in accordance with Company policy.
  • A company with an ambitious vision, a dynamic work environment, and a team of smart, motivated, and fun to work-with colleagues!

The posted salary range reflects the potential base pay for this role, adjusted to account for varying geographic markets. Final compensation will be based on factors such as your location, job-related skills, experience, and internal alignment, including equity and benefits.

WE WELCOME ALL
Skyryse is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

NO AGENCY CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED. 

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