VP, MPG Corporate Communications

Responsibilities cover Motion Picture Group (US and International). The main responsibility of this role is to work closely with the SVP, Corporate Communications to manage the touchpoints with trade and business media so that the Motion Picture Group (MPG) has a distinct voice coordinating all outbound messaging. This role involves developing and implementing strategic business and content communications efforts for the studio, executive communications, and crisis/issues management. The role reports to the SVP, Corporate Communications and will work closely with senior MPG executives, business partners, and various internal cross-functional teams. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• The Vice President, Corporate Communications will be aligned with the Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group and be responsible for both strategizing and executing studio / film written communications 

• Oversee casting and film rights “leaks” strategy which includes maintaining strong relationships with trade reporters, fielding their inquiries, clearing with executives/ filmmakers/ representatives and shaping positioning in stories 

• Handle positioning and messaging for 20 or more motion pictures annually, from the start of production through release 

• Oversee written communication regarding film output which includes talking points, press kits, press releases, press mailers, pitch letters, feature stories, speeches 

• Under the direction of the SVP, formulate strategy on crisis communications issues which includes liaising with filmmakers, producers, executives and a wide variety of other internal departments including human resources, legal, distribution, creative and publicity 

• Determine strategies to enhance our films’ visibility in the media landscape, and evangelize our studio’s broader narrative 

• Leverage deep film and entertainment industry expertise to shape communications strategy, monitor trends, and proactively anticipate opportunities and risks. 

• Write, edit and strategically service press releases, media alerts and film related communications 

• Closely collaborate with publicity, marketing, legal, digital, social media, research, consumer marketing, special events, and filmmakers to keep studio team on track and aligned 

• Manage executive presence at special events 

• This role will build close relationships with key peers and leaders at other Sony business units (Sony Electronics, PlayStation, Sony Music, etc.) 

REQUIREMENTS 

• 10+ years of corporate and / or crisis communications / media relations experience from within the motion picture industry 

• College degree required, graduate degree preferred 

• Proven track record in developing and executing integrated communications strategies. 

• Strong existing relationships with key trade media 

• Excellent judgment regarding what is newsworthy and promotable, and / or how to position news as relevant to the media and their audience 

• Proven, exceptional writing skills 

• Exceptional strategic, energetic thinker with a big-picture mentality 

• Ability to align department goals to overall business goals 

• Creative and innovative thinker 

• Experience in managing crisis communications and high-stakes media relations 

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within a team while also working independently with initiative and autonomy