Integrated Communications Specialist

Zurich U.S., a leading global provider of commercial insurance products and services, is seeking an Integrated Communications Specialist to join our Communications team based in the Chicago area. This individual contributor role will assist with the development and execution of communications content that advances business priorities, enhances Zurich’s reputation and engages key audiences. The position will be based in Zurich’s office in suburban Schaumburg, Illinois, or downtown Chicago.

As an Integrated Communications Specialist, the selected candidate will assist in the planning, writing, editing, implementation and measurement of communication approaches and materials primarily for external audiences across owned, earned, paid and shared channels. The ideal candidate will be a strong writer and agile communications professional who can contribute to multiple projects and priorities, use digital technologies effectively, learn technical concepts and manage time well.

Role responsibilities:

This individual will engage in hands‑on content development, media outreach and tracking of impact, supporting external awards opportunities, leader speaking engagements, news releases, corporate presentations, style guides and communications plans. This specialist will work closely with communications colleagues and subject matter experts across various businesses and functions to develop clear, concise and compelling messaging for diverse audiences. Responsibilities include:

• Contribute to high-quality external content including press releases, talking points, Q&As, media statements, executive remarks, social copy, award nominations and web copy in alignment with brand standards.

• Support Communications Account Leads in developing, implementing and measuring integrated communication plans that advance business and reputation objectives.

• Identify and help manage media, speaking and award opportunities; help develop pitches and nominations, respond to media inquiries and report on results.
• Help prepare and coordinate media training, briefing materials and coaching for executives and subject matter experts ahead of interviews, panels and public engagements.

• Support both short-term and long-term communications projects, providing regular status updates to leadership and partners. Participate in special projects as assigned.
• Monitor industry trends and current events to inform communication strategies and ensure relevance in media relations.
• Build productive working relationships with subject matter experts and business partners to gather information, develop content and support communications initiatives.

• Help track and report on communications performance, including media coverage, audience engagement and other business-relevant metrics.
• Support updates to communications resources and guidelines. 

• Build and share knowledge of insurance concepts, brand standards and supported business areas.

This role requires experience with Microsoft 365 applications including Copilot and a continuous learning mindset to build on existing skills.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree and no prior experience required in the Communications or Marketing or Media Relations or Public Relations area
  OR

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 2 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 and 1 or more years of experience in the Communications or Marketing or Media Relations or Public Relations area

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2 to 3 or more years of experience in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or Marketing.
• 2 to 3 or more years of experience supporting and executing communications programs, campaigns or initiatives.
• Experience supporting media relations activities, including media outreach, pitch development and responding to inquiries.
• Proven copywriting skills (a writing test will be assigned during the interview process).
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 applications.
• Experience leveraging AI and communications technology to develop ideas, enhance content and improve efficiency while maintaining high ethical standards.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to automate and streamline routine communications tasks for increased productivity (e.g., editing, proofing, measurement, initial research).
• Knowledge of commercial insurance and/or vertical industries (e.g., construction, energy, life sciences, financial institutions).
• Experience in using measurement and analytics tools, such as Google Analytics, to track, measure and report on communications performance.
• Learning mindset with ability to understand and translate technical concepts.

Other:

• Business travel if required (infrequent).
• Extended hours during peak periods as required.
• Regular, predictable attendance (three days a week in either the Zurich Schaumburg or Chicago office).

We offer competitive pay and comprehensive benefits for employees and their families. [Learn more about Total Rewards here.]

Why Zurich?

At Zurich, we value your ideas and experience. We offer growth, inclusion, and a supportive environment—so you can help shape the future of insurance. Zurich North America is a leader in risk management, with over 150 years of expertise and coverage across 25+ industries, including 90% of the Fortune 500®.

Join us for a brighter future—for yourself and our customers.

Zurich in North America does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy or other characteristics protected by applicable law. Equal Opportunity Employer disability/vets.

Zurich complies with 18 U.S. Code § 1033.

Please note: Zurich does not accept unsolicited CVs from agencies. Preferred vendors should use our Recruiting Agency Portal.

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