1

Director External Relations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Director of External Relations

Upham, ND · On-site +1

$37K - $47K/yr

Job Title Associate Director of External Relations Department Associate Dean Social Science Worker Type Temporary (Fixed Term) Pay Type Salary Benefit Eligible Yes Summary The College of Arts and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Director External Relations information

See salary details

$39K

$100.9K

$173.5K

How much do director external relations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for director external relations in the United States is $100,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of External Relations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of External Relations, you need expertise in public relations, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and typically a degree in communications, public affairs, or a related field. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, CRM systems, and digital communication platforms is essential. Outstanding interpersonal skills, persuasive communication, and the ability to build and maintain relationships set exceptional professionals apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively promoting organizational objectives, managing reputation, and fostering strong external partnerships.

How does a Director of External Relations typically collaborate with internal teams to achieve organizational goals?

A Director of External Relations often works closely with various internal departments, such as communications, marketing, and executive leadership, to align external messaging with organizational objectives. This collaboration usually involves regular strategy meetings, sharing key updates, and ensuring that outreach efforts reflect the company’s mission and values. By fostering open communication between teams, the Director helps maintain consistent branding and strengthens stakeholder relationships. This cross-functional work environment is essential for executing successful campaigns and managing the organization's public image.

What does a Director of External Relations do?

A Director of External Relations is responsible for managing and enhancing an organization's relationships with external stakeholders, such as partners, government agencies, media, and the public. They develop communication strategies, oversee public relations campaigns, and represent the organization at events and in negotiations. Their main goal is to promote the organization's image, foster beneficial partnerships, and ensure effective communication with key audiences.

What is the difference between Director External Relations vs Public Relations Manager?

AspectDirector External RelationsPublic Relations Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often advanced degrees in communications, public relations, or related fieldsBachelor's degree in communications, public relations, or related fields
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, cross-department collaboration, high-level stakeholder engagementMedia interactions, campaign management, media relations
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, corporations, government agencies, large organizationsCorporations, PR agencies, nonprofits
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior strategic roles in external communicationsManaging media relations and public image

The main difference is that the Director External Relations oversees strategic external communication efforts and stakeholder engagement at a high level, while the Public Relations Manager focuses on media relations and executing PR campaigns. The Director typically has broader responsibilities and higher credentials, working in senior leadership, whereas the PR Manager handles day-to-day media interactions.

More about Director External Relations jobs
What cities are hiring for Director External Relations jobs? Cities with the most Director External Relations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of External Relations jobs? The most popular types of External Relations jobs are:
What states have the most Director External Relations jobs? States with the most job openings for Director External Relations jobs include:
Infographic showing various Director External Relations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,880 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Lead Manager - External Relations

British American Tobacco

Winston Salem, NC • On-site

$50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Reynolds American is evolving into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World.
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey. Tomorrow can't wait, let's shape it together!
REYNOLDS AMERICAN has an exciting opportunity for a Lead Manager - External Relations in Winston-Salem, NC.
The Lead Manager External Relations is responsible for collaborating on the development and execution of strategic plans relative to relationship building and engagement initiatives with key influential trade partners and industry associations. A key focus of this position is managing both offensive and defensive activities at the local government level, both internal and external, and supporting the A Better Tomorrow vision through presentations at industry tradeshows, conferences, and panel discussions. This position reports directly to the Director External Relations.
Your key responsibilities will include:
  • Collaborate with internal and external partners to create, implement, and drive tactical policy priorities to maximize influence of trade partners among local elected officials.
  • Work with local Field Trade Marketing teams to inform and activate retail and wholesale trade partners primarily on legislative activities at the local and state levels.
  • Support the legislative communication strategy to inform and activate trade partners, as well as internal function activation.
  • Support the Director External Relations on state level strategy execution as assigned.
  • Lead External Relations Internal Data management to ensure data integrity at the local and state level.
  • Support External Relations insight initiatives which will provide greater visibility into the commercial impact of local, state, and federal policy initiatives.
  • Act as primary point of contact for outside advocacy groups as it relates to grassroots engagement execution.
  • Support the External Relations function through next generation trade association exploration and build out; and operational initiatives as assigned.
  • Attend trade association, customer, and internal events as requested.

What are we looking for?
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • 1-3 years of experience in Political Affairs or Political Advocacy with trade marketing experience or understanding is preferred.
  • Understanding of emerging policy, company/industry dynamics and the legislative/regulatory landscape
  • Strong influencing, ideation and strategy development skills
  • Proven ability to rapidly develop credible industry relationships
  • Ability to manage high volumes of activity with pace and possess strong multi-tasking skills
  • Outstanding communication skills, both written and oral, and ability to deliver concise/persuasive presentations tailored to trade partners and policymakers

WE ARE REYNOLDS AMERICAN-A member of the BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO GROUP
At Reynolds American, we are committed to our Purpose of creating A Better Tomorrow. This is what drives our people and our passion for innovation. See what is possible for you at REYNOLDS AMERICAN.
BELONGING, ACHIEVING, TOGETHER
Collaboration and teamwork underpin everything we do here at Reynolds American. We know that collaborating with colleagues is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.
SALARY AND BENEFITS OVERVIEW
Benefit Information
The following is a general summary of the competitive compensation and benefit plans we offer:
  • 401(k) plan that offers opportunity to save on pre- and post-tax basis up to 50 percent of eligible compensation.
    • Company matches 100 percent of employee pre-tax/Roth (401k) contributions up to six percent
    • Company contributes an additional three percent to 401(k) whether employee participates or not
  • Comprehensive health- and welfare-benefits package (including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drugs)
  • Health Savings Account start-up contribution for employees who elect the high deductible health plan
  • Flexible spending accounts for both Health Care and Dependent Care allowing employee to use pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified expenses during the calendar year
  • Employee assistance program offering 8 free counselling sessions, per issue, each calendar year for employees and their dependents
  • Company paid life insurance of 1x annual base pay ($50,000 minimum)
  • Company paid accidental death or dismemberment insurance of 2x annual base pay ($50,000 minimum)
  • Voluntary insurances offered at group rates: employee and dependent life insurance, AD&D insurance, critical illness, accident coverage, disability buy-up, and auto & home insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement and student loan support
  • Dependent Scholarship Programs
  • Free confidential personal financial counselling service
  • On-site health centers and 24/7 fitness centers at certain company locations
  • A charitable giving matching grants program that enables employees to direct and double their donations to qualifying charitable organizations of their choice
  • Health-care concierge service
  • Volunteer service opportunities
  • Extensive training opportunities
  • Company vehicle for eligible employees
  • Mobile phone allowance for eligible employees
  • Paid Leave:
    • Sick and Personal Time (exempt employees may be excused with pay for brief absences; non-exempt employees receive up to 6 days)
    • Vacation (levels Below Senior Director receive 15 days (pro-rated during first year of service); Senior Director and Officers receive 25 days (pro-rated during first year of service)).
    • Holidays (Nine company recognized and two annual personal holidays to be used at the employee's discretion)
    • Paid Parental Leave + temporary reduced work schedule opportunity
    • Funeral Leave
    • Short-Term Disability Leave
    • Long-Term Disability Leave
    • Jury Duty Leave
    • Military Leave
    • Released Time for Children's Education
    • Community Outreach Leave
    • Other paid leave benefits, as required by state or local law
  • Your journey with us is not limited by boundaries; it is propelled by your aspirations. Join us at Reynolds American and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression is not just a statement - it is a reality, we are eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
  • You will have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills.
  • We prioritize continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes.

Our organization offers a level of challenge, responsibility, and creativity for motivated employees who want to grow their careers. We are also committed to valuing different perspectives, experiences, and talents to improve the company's potential for optimally achieving its business objectives!
Reynolds American Inc. and its affiliated companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other status protected by law. Only applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact us directly via email at wppgeneral@RJRT.com.
California Privacy Notice