Communications Director
Job Type
Full-time
About us
Calyxt (Nasdaq: CLXT) is a plant-based synthetic biotechnology company. The Company leverages its proprietary PlantSpring™ technology platform to engineer innovative materials and products for its customers to help them meet their sustainability goals. Calyxt’s diversified offerings are delivered through its proprietary BioFactory™ manufacturing process. For more information, visit www.calyxt.com.
PlantSpring, BioFactory and the Calyxt logo are trademarks of Calyxt, Inc.
In a world seeking to evolve to more sustainable solutions that protect water and soil resources and do not contribute to carbon pollution, plants are uniquely capable of producing compounds that cannot be produced through other means. Our team has more than a decade of experience in engineering plant metabolism with a proven capability to convert concepts into products. We are looking for talented individuals who want to join our work to innovate and lead a positive change across industries using the power of plants.
Job Summary
Calyxt is seeking a highly motivated and results-oriented individual for a position of Communications Director. This role will be a hands-on architect of a variety of external communication efforts to position Calyxt as a leader in the field of plant-based synthetic biology, including engagement with diverse stakeholder groups through a wide range of communications channels and facilitation of digital/social media strategies and content. This position embraces a wide variety of communications activities, including executive communications, media relations, external engagement efforts, and project execution. The role will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer.
Key Responsibilities:
In collaboration with the executive team, lead creation and execution of strategic, integrated communications related to building company’s presence in the synthetic biology sector.
Shape stories and messages that resonate with all of Calyxt’s key stakeholders including customers, media, influencers, social followers, investors/analysts and current/future employees, and drive effective communications of Calyxt’s content to target audiences across different channels.
Identify and pursue opportunities for Calyxt’s messages to be shared externally in creative ways and ensure company’s participation and engagement in relevant forums.
Identify and engage suitable agency partners to enable execution of the communications strategy.
Manage external website and social media platforms content. Demonstrate a solid understanding of social media trends and effective social engagement.
Participate in competitive intelligence efforts. Identify trends in media that impact Calyxt and its position/response on key issues.
Draft press releases, executive scripts for speaking engagements, media interviews and other communications as needed.
Act as a company spokesperson, as appropriate. Oversee issues management and crisis communications situations, including after-hours media relations. Develop reactive talking points or manage issues, as appropriate.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in communications, marketing or journalism.
At least 7 years of experience in communications within a fast-paced corporate or agency environment.
Superb writing/editing skills with high attention to detail required.
Proven digital communications skillset
Demonstrated strong people and project management skills
Proven strong interpersonal skills and ability to multitask in a fast-changing environment.
Broad understanding of US media, a strong sense of what makes a good feature or news angle, and an established network of contact across the media landscape.
Ability to work quickly and effectively, often managing several projects under deadline.
Strong team player, leader, self-starter and positive catalyst.
Preferred Qualifications:
Previous engagement with biotechnology/ life sciences industry and/or sustainability efforts
Understanding of cosmeceuticals, nutraceuticals, or pharma sectors
Knowledge of the Adobe suite is a plus
