Associate Specialist, Corporate Communications

Summary The Associate Specialist, Corporate Communications supports the development and execution of internal and external communications initiatives, including executive communications, employee engagement, analyst relations, and corporate communications projects. As part of the Communications Team, this role assists with creating written and digital content, coordinating communications activities, and supporting initiatives that align with SHRM's mission and organizational objectives. Reporting to the Manager, CEO Communications, the Associate Specialist works collaboratively with internal stakeholders to support communications projects, employee engagement activities, and the communications needs of SHRM subsidiaries. The role requires strong writing, organizational, and coordination skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities Executive Communications Support the Executive Communications team in preparing materials for CEO speaking engagements, including conducting research, drafting talking points and briefing materials, and developing PowerPoint presentations. Draft internal staff communications on behalf of the CEO for review and approval. Assist with communications-related special projects for the Chief Marketing Officer, coordinating materials, timelines, and deliverables as needed. Employee Engagement & Internal Communications Support the development and production of the weekly employee newsletter, including gathering content, drafting articles, coordinating submissions, and preparing materials for distribution. Collaborate with HR and other departments to draft and distribute employee communications. Assist with the planning and coordination of employee engagement activities, including social events, staff meetings, and all-hands meetings. Maintain and update internal communications platforms, including the SHRM intranet, to ensure content is accurate, current, and accessible. Draft and coordinate internal and external communications related to SHRM news, organizational initiatives, and relevant events impacting SHRM audiences. Analyst Relations Support the coordination and administration of SHRM's industry analyst relations program. Assist with communications, scheduling, and logistical coordination involving industry analysts and external agency partners. Coordinate materials, communications, and logistical arrangements for analyst participation at SHRM's annual conference. Collaborate with the Events team to support the planning and execution of analyst-related conference activities. Communications Projects & Coordination Support multiple corporate communications and marketing projects by coordinating activities, tracking timelines, and monitoring deliverables. Maintain project plans, schedules, and status updates to support timely completion of assigned initiatives. Coordinate with internal stakeholders, subject matter experts, and external vendors to gather information and support project execution. Assist with the development and coordination of print and digital communications materials for campaigns and organizational initiatives. Review communications materials for accuracy, consistency, and alignment with established brand and messaging guidelines. Process Improvement & Special Projects Identify opportunities to improve communications processes, workflows, and content delivery, and share recommendations with management. Collaborate with team members and cross-functional stakeholders to support departmental goals and initiatives. Assist with special projects, time-sensitive communications, and other departmental priorities as assigned. Perform other duties as assigned. Education & Experience Requirements Education High school diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field preferred, or relevant equivalent experience in lieu of a degree. Experience Zero (0) to three (3) years of experience in corporate communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field. Experience drafting, editing, or coordinating written and digital communications preferred. Experience supporting communications projects, employee engagement activities, or events preferred. Experience with content management systems, intranet platforms, or project management tools preferred. Certifications - NA Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop clear, concise, and engaging content for various audiences. Strong editing and proofreading skills, with attention to grammar, accuracy, consistency, and tone. Ability to organize multiple assignments, manage competing priorities, and meet established deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook. Familiarity with digital communications platforms, content management systems, and project management tools. Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across departments and with various levels of management. Professionalism, discretion, and the ability to handle confidential or sensitive information appropriately. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to follow established processes and guidelines. Ability to conduct research, gather information, and organize materials to support communications initiatives. Demonstrated resourcefulness, adaptability, and willingness to learn new processes and technologies. Ability to work independently on assigned tasks while seeking guidance and direction as appropriate. Commitment to high standards of customer service, professionalism, integrity, and ethics. Ability to effectively leverage artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies to streamline workflows, enhance productivity, and improve overall work quality. Physical Requirements This position operates in a typical office environment (which includes a home office setting) and requires the ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Physical requirements may include: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, handling documents, and using office equipment. Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching. Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds as needed. Clear verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with colleagues and stakeholders. Work Environment Hybrid Schedule (3 Days In-Office/2 Days Remote) This position follows a hybrid work schedule, with Tuesday through Thursday in office and Monday and Friday remote. Employees must be available during standard business hours, with core hours beginning between 8:00–9:00 a.m. and concluding between 5:00–6:00 p.m. local time. Travel: Occasional 0 – 10% #LI The hiring range for this position is $65,000 to $75,000 per year. This range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications. SHRM offers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package. The benefits for this position include professional growth and development, health, dental, vision, well-being, health savings, flexible spending, retirement, open leave, and annual discretionary bonus and incentives.