Communication Specialist I

Zurich North America seeks a Communications Specialist to join a dynamic, collaborative team known for delivering strategic counsel that drive business results. Based in Schaumburg, IL, this hybrid role requires at least three days per week onsite, offering the opportunity to work alongside industry experts and make a real impact through insightful, creative communications.

As a Communications Specialist, the selected candidate will assist in the planning, creation, editing and implementation of project-specific communication approaches and materials for both enterprise and marketplace audiences across all channels, including paid, earned, shared and owned media.

The Communications Specialist will play a key role in designing, developing and delivering impactful communications that bring Zurich’s brand to life and support strategic priorities. Zurich North America is recognized for inventive products, innovative use of technology and consultative expertise, serving mid-sized and large businesses, including over 90% of the Fortune 500. This role offers the opportunity to shape narratives, drive engagement and strengthen Zurich’s reputation as an industry leader. Zurich fosters a growth-driven culture, invests in its people and encourages continuous learning and development. Above all, the company champions customer advocacy, putting customers’ needs at the heart of every decision.

Key Accountabilities:

• Plan, create, edit and implement communication strategies and content for enterprise and marketplace audiences across paid, earned, shared and owned channels.
• Proactively pitch and secure media opportunities in Tier 1, trade and sector-focused outlets by building strong relationships with journalists and key media contacts, managing media inquiries, and cultivating opportunities for Zurich spokespeople to enhance the company’s visibility and reputation.
• Develop and deliver engaging content for web, social media and intranet platforms, ensuring alignment with Zurich’s brand, key messages and content strategy to drive strong audience engagement and advance strategic objectives.
• Collaborate with Communications Account Leads and Design to manage deliverables.
• Partner with business units and other stakeholders to support communication needs, deepen knowledge of products and services, and provide counsel on media relations approaches for specific business areas.
• Support both short-term and long-term communications projects, providing regular status updates to leadership and partners.
• Maintain and update digital channels, monitoring content for accuracy and engagement.
• Monitor industry trends, activity and current affairs to inform communication strategies and ensure relevance in media relations.
• Track and report on communications activities and metrics, using insights to optimize future campaigns.
• Participate in special projects as assigned.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Communications or Marketing or Journalism or Public Relations and 5 or more years of experience in the Communications or Marketing or Media Relations or Public Relations area
  OR

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 7 or more years of experience in the Communications or Marketing or Media Relations or Public Relations area
  OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree in Communications or Marketing or Journalism or Public Relations and 5 or more years of experience in the Communications or Marketing or Media Relations or Public Relations area

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience leveraging AI and communications technology to enhance strategic recommendations, improve efficiency and deliver innovative solutions while maintaining high ethical standards.
• Demonstrated ability to automate and streamline routine communications tasks for increased productivity (e.g., editing, proofing, reporting, basic research).
• Insurance and/or vertical industry acumen, e.g., construction, energy, life sciences, and manufacturing, reflecting both insurance expertise and sector knowledge.
• Experience using media relations and web analytics tools, such as Cision and Google Analytics, to track, measure, and report on communications performance.
• Strong analytical mindset with experience in competitive insights, crisis prediction and impact assessment.
• Experience identifying issues management situations and supporting response and mitigation strategies.
• Experience developing and executing communications strategies and campaigns.
• Proven media relations skills, including pitching to media outlets and developing strong relationships with journalists and key media contacts.
• Proven copywriting skills (a writing test will be assigned during the interview process).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Excellent organizational skills.

Other:

• Business travel as required.
• Extended hours during peak periods as required.
• Regular, predictable attendance.
• Visibility in the office as required.

At Zurich, compensation for roles is influenced by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the specific office location, role, skill set, and level of experience. In compliance with local laws, Zurich commits to providing a fair and reasonable compensation range for each role. For more information about our Total Rewards, please click here. Additional rewards may encompass short-term incentive bonuses and merit increases. We encourage candidates with salary expectations beyond the provided range to apply as they will be considered based on their experience, skills, and education. 

The compensation indicated represents a nationwide market range and has not been adjusted for geographic differentials pertaining to the location where the position may be filled. The proposed salary range for this position is $64,600.00 - $105,900.00, with short-term incentive bonus eligibility set at 10%. 

As an insurance company, Zurich is subject to 18 U.S. Code § 1033.

A future with Zurich. What can go right when you apply at Zurich?

Now is the time to move forward and make a difference. At Zurich, we want you to share your unique perspectives, experiences and ideas so we can grow and drive sustainable change together. As part of a leading global organization, Zurich North America has over 150 years of experience managing risk and supporting resilience. Today, Zurich North America is a leading provider of commercial property-casualty insurance solutions and a wide range of risk management products and services for businesses and individuals. We serve more than 25 industries, from agriculture to technology, and we insure 90% of the Fortune 500®. Our growth strategy is not limited to our business. As an employer, we strive to provide ongoing career development opportunities, and we foster an environment where voices are diverse, behaviors are inclusive, actions drive equity, and our people feel a sense of belonging. Be a part of the next evolution of the insurance industry. Join us in building a brighter future for our colleagues, our customers and the communities we serve. Zurich maintains a comprehensive employee benefits package for employees as well as eligible dependents and competitive compensation. Please click here to learn more.

Zurich in North America is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 

Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume will become the property of Zurich American Insurance. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission. 

Location(s): AM - Schaumburg
Remote Working: Hybrid
Schedule: Full Time
Employment Sponsorship Offered: No  
 
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