Senior Manager, Change Communications at Mars, Incorporated in McLean, Virginia

Job Description:

Job Description:

The Mars Global HQ is undergoing a multi-year transformation including those adaptations driven by the Future of Work - reimagining where, how, and when work gets done to maximize productivity and efficiency while preserving what's best about our culture. Each phase of this construction project - which is about to begin demolition in summer 2024 - requires a robust communications strategy and execution of communications to varied, and senior stakeholders as we prepare for the opening of the new site in Q3 2026. While most communications will be internal, collaboration with the corporate external communications team is also required to bring all key stakeholders along with us on this once-in-a-generation project.

Responsibilities

1. McLean Site Change Communications Planning & Implementation

Building upon the work to date, the Associate will further strengthen and implement a full change communications strategy for the critical next stages of the Mars Global HQ renovation through to its completion in 2026. This includes carrying forward a cohesive narrative, tailoring the narrative for the next phases of the project, and leading individualized stakeholder communications plans that meet the objectives of this program and provide compelling, clear messaging that build stakeholder engagement and capabilities. The Associate will be responsible for creating messaging in preparation for the corporate headquarters opening that includes proof points and storytelling that bring the upcoming change to life. Topics may include workplace visioning, change management, move management, day 1 onboarding, getting oriented to the site, etc.

2. McLean Museum Development & Communications Support

The Associate will also partner with the Mars Museum curator in the development and creation of the museum at the new site. Responsibilities will include working with the Museum Curator on the museum narratives, visual and written display of artifacts including scripts, AV content development, etc., and working closely with our museum vendor to ensure continuity of tone, characterization and culture in the final designs and displays.

3. Stakeholder Engagement Planning & Implementation

The Associate will be responsible for building necessary relationships with Leadership to lead a robust change management and stakeholder engagement plan that accounts for individual sensitivities, perspectives and priorities involving relevant change planning and risk analysis. This Associate will ensure that the individuals and groups identified by the project team are engaged across all important milestones of the project. Communications will be executed in accordance with Corporate Affairs best practices and leverage the appropriate communication networks/pathways.

4. Writing, Editing & Messaging

The Associate will display excellent writing and editing skills combined with a creative and bold communications approach. Familiarity with and the ability to adhere to the Mars Style Guide and Brand guidelines will be required to both produce and review communications related to the program.

5. Digital Savvy Communications

Associate communication needs should leverage digital capabilities throughout the project across aspects including the museum, office management systems, in office signage, etc. The role will be accountable for designing and activating a multi-faceted digital communications strategy for the project, with the capability to touch and impact all generations of Associates, in synch with the more digital savvy ambitions of the CA function.

Context and Scope

This Associate will serve as a member of the Leadership, Family & Change Communications team within the broader Strategic Business Communications team, sharing best change communication practices and remaining in-synch with global initiatives.

This Associate will be an active member of the McLean HQ Leadership team, supporting the transformation team with all communications and advising on program direction from a stakeholder and communications standpoint. This person will bring both Mars' communications best-practices and awareness of communications processes and initiatives. Furthermore, this role will require working closely with the Mars Leadership team, MVA Associates, and other key stakeholders. The Associate will also be expected to support related change programs with communications support such as the Future of Work as needed.

The Change Communications Senior Manager will report to the Senior Director, Leadership, Family & Change Communications at Mars, Incorporated.

Qualifications

• The person in this role must be a thought leader, project manager, and strategic communicator. It requires strong collaboration skills, digital capabilities, comfort with senior leaders, and an ability to influence others.


• Minimum 8 years of experience in related work (communications, change management, OD)


• History of supporting business transformations


• Exceptional writing and editing skills


• Critical thinking skills and good judgment


• Strong business acumen


• Ability to remain flexible and resilient under pressure


• Comfortable around key decision makers and business leaders / Experience with senior leaders


• Experience working with agency partners

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with over 130,000 diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.


• Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.


• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.


• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.

Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.