Manager/Senior Manager, Communications - EMEA

BSA | The Software Alliance

Brussels, Belgium

About BSA

BSA | The Software Alliance is the leading advocate for the global software industry before governments and in the international marketplace. With headquarters in Washington, DC and operations in more than 60 countries, BSA pioneers compliance programs that promote legal software use and advocates for public policies that foster technology innovation and drive growth in the digital economy. 

BSA’s members are among the world’s most innovative companies, creating software solutions that spark the economy and improve modern life. Member companies include Adobe, Apple, Autodesk, CA Technologies, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, Salesforce.com, Siemens PLM Software, Symantec and many others.

Current Situation and Statement of Needs

BSA is seeking to retain the services of an experienced communications professional to be located in Brussels, to execute strategic communications/PR activities. The intent of this work is to raise the profile and brand awareness of BSA and its key issues before governments, businesses and media throughout the region (EMEA), and to support BSA’s European policy objectives with proactive, strategic public relations efforts. The incumbent will be based in Brussels and will collaborate with BSA regional and global staff, members, and third parties where appropriate, to implement communications strategies that enhance BSA’s reputation, effectiveness and influence in the region.

Primary Requirements:

• Serve as primary BSA communications point of contact for EMEA, with goal of establishing a strong, pronounced BSA presence in the region while also helping build a more visible, Brussels-specific policy messaging presence;
• In tandem with Washington, DC headquarters and Brussels policy team, develop and implement BSA’s EMEA corporate communications program based in Brussels, using effective, timely and relevant messaging to influence local audiences and stakeholders. Ensure consistent use of the BSA brand across the region;
• Craft, make persuasive cases for, and execute strategic communications activities and culturally aware ideas/tactics consistent with BSA’s global goals and objectives that raise BSA’s profile as the industry thought-leader in the software and related policy issues space throughout EMEA;
• Deliver PR and communications plans which support BSA’s European policy objectives, in cooperation with BSA headquarters in Washington, DC; policy staff, and the European Policy Committee in Brussels;
• Engage with BSA members, appropriate third parties and industry organizations to develop relationships and enhance BSA's influence in the region;
• Actively produce and regularly achieve placement of compelling collateral materials (press releases/media advisories, op-eds, letters to the editor, speeches/speech inserts), and track/deliver progress made quarterly;
• Actively pitch and deliver top-tier press interviews for appropriate BSA staff both in region and from Washington, DC headquarters;
• Seek out and deliver high-level, budget-friendly speaking opportunities for appropriate BSA staff, tied to pre-determined strategic objectives and core areas of focus;
• Develop and coordinate public relations and communications strategies tied to BSA global research. Ensure message consistency and maximum exposure for BSA and its issues among media, members, and other stakeholders;
• Actively manage budget and make recommendations that align with BSA’s strategic communications plans and overall goals;
• Other requirements as requested.

General Requirements:

The background we are seeking includes someone with a degree level or higher in a communications or related discipline, with a minimum of 7 years’ communications experience in a relevant environment. Qualified candidates will have knowledge and experience of issue-oriented communications strategy, proven experience of leading international communications programs across numerous markets, a proven track record of pitching and securing a significant amount of positive national and global press coverage, strong leadership qualities with excellent people management and team-building capabilities, and solid project-management experience with the ability to manage several projects simultaneously. Advanced organization proficiency, and ability to clearly demonstrate experience in strategic communications planning and implementation desired. Exemplary written, oral and presentation skills necessary, and strong consensus-building aptitude with ability to influence and negotiate helpful. Familiarity with Intellectual Property and the IT industry a plus. Strong written and verbal English required, and fluency in additional European languages preferred.

How to respond:

Responses, referrals and questions should be emailed to careers-emea@bsa.org. Please include the title of the position and where you saw the posting in the Subject Line.