What We Do:

Uptake is a Chicago-based predictive analytics SaaS platform provider that empowers major industry leaders to optimize performance, reduce asset failures, and enhance safety. At Uptake, we combine our strengths—machine learning, analytics, data visualization, and software development—with the expertise of our industrial partners. The result is enormous savings in development time and resources for Uptake’s partners and a proven industrial grade software platform that delivers value to partners and their end customers.

What You'll Do:

As the Executive Communications PR Lead, you will be crafting the voice behind the voice. This individual will own the executive-level communication at Uptake, and will build and execute a communications plan that amplifies the voices of the executive team, and aligns to our business strategy. This will be a critical player in defining the messages delivered through internal and external communications including speeches, video content, social media, and PR. The Exec Comms PR Lead will work within the Special Projects team and report to the Chief of Staff but work closely with the Uptake Communications team.

Responsibilities:

• Define and implement our external executive communications strategy and framework, aligning to our business objectives and defining key messages
• Define goals and metrics for the successful execution of the executive communications strategy
• Create external speaking opportunities at industry-leading conferences and trade shows, as well as thought leadership platforms
• Identify and leverage executive opportunities to further build and support the story of our executives and of Uptake, and build brand recognition for both
• Provide leadership and oversight of the Executive Communications team, defining the most appropriate mediums for successful execution of all executive communication and messaging
• Oversee the inception and execution of all executive communications content
• Work seamlessly and effectively across departments, including marketing, communications, product, sales, corporate development, data science and leadership to collaborate on materials, meet deadlines and produce superior work
• Monitor and analyze developments and major issues in IOT, tech, and relevant industries to ensure they are appropriately addressed and articulated in the executive content strategy
• Have an in-depth knowledge of the Uptake business, products and solutions to effectively communicate that value and articulate it simply and concisely – building the brand of Uptake executives broadly and across specific industries

Qualifications:

• B.A./B.S. English, Journalism, Communications or other related discipline from an accredited university
• 8-10 years relevant work experience, preferably in PR, communications, or brand, including the proven ability to work closely with a variety of disciplines, including technical and engineering teams
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills
• Excellent research, analytical, and storytelling skills
• Success in this position requires high level of executive maturity and experience working with leadership
• Strong ability to lead a team and a track record of delivering through teamwork and resolving conflict
• Knowledge of grammar usage and editorial style guidelines
• Attention to detail is critical, along with the ability to grasp and translate technical functions into customer benefits
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, work effectively across a large, fast-paced organization and deliver on priorities
• Ability to maintain the utmost discretion and diplomacy in interacting with high-level individuals and maintain confidences at all times
• Experience writing technical, digital or industrial content
• Creative thinker 
• Excellent project management skills, including a proven ability to think through all aspects of the process, manage long-term projects and multi-task
• Driven self-starter with a passion for excellence