Communications Manager (Manufacturing - Onsite in Sumter, SC)

Brief Summary of Position

The Plant Communications Manager is responsible for leading and executing all internal (80%) and external (20%) communication activities for the Sumter plant. This role ensures alignment with Continental’s corporate, divisional, and local objectives while positioning the plant as an employer of choice and a responsible member of the community.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

Develop and implement a comprehensive plant communication strategy to strengthen Continental’s reputation and position the plant as an employer of choice and responsible community partner

Ensure alignment of all internal and external communications with corporate, divisional, and local business objectives through close coordination with Location Communications Tire Division and central teams

Serve as the official spokesperson for the Sumter plant and establish strong relationships with local media, authorities, institutions, and community stakeholders

Plan, write, edit, and disseminate all plant-related communication materials, including press releases, media statements, articles, presentations, speeches, internal communications, and visual displays in compliance with corporate guidelines

Manage and continuously improve internal communication channels (newsletters, info boards, intranet, internal TV, town halls, internal letters) to promote employee engagement and Continental’s employer brand

Develop and execute external communication initiatives and coordinate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities at the plant level

Serve as a communication consultant to plant leadership on labor relations, employer branding, project communication, and organizational change initiatives

Plan, develop, and execute plant communication campaigns, events, and media activities, including press conferences and community events

Define, develop, and implement a crisis communication strategy; ensure crisis communication training for relevant teams; act as designated speaker in crisis situations

Actively participate in central communications initiatives and cross-functional projects, and provide communication training to plant management

Follow all plant, ESH, CBS, quality, and department processes and procedures

Other duties as assigned

NOTE: This job description may not be inclusive of all work required and may be updated as needed.

THE ENVIRONMENT

Safety is our highest priority, and all safety procedures and guidelines must be followed at all times

Required safety wear may include standard plant PPE such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and other equipment as applicable during plant presence

This position primarily operates in a climate-controlled office environment within a manufacturing plant setting

Occasional exposure to a non-climate-controlled production environment, including temperature variations, forklift and pedestrian traffic, and elevated noise levels

Standard daytime schedule; flexibility may be required to support events, crisis situations, or business needs

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field

5 years of relevant experience in internal and external communications, media relations, employer branding, and crisis communication in a manufacturing plant Providing a professional portfolio of relevant work is a required component of the application and interview process

Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences in a manufacturing plant

Experience advising senior leadership and serving as a trusted communicator for both leadership teams and shop‑floor employees in a manufacturing plant

Willingness and ability to work flexible or non‑standard shifts is required onsite in Sumter, SC

Must be available and willing to work onsite in the manufacturing plant 5 days a week

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas now or in the future for this job posting

ADDITIONAL WAYS TO STAND OUT

7 years of relevant experience

Experience in a plant‑based, manufacturing, or industrial environment

THE PERKS

Immediate Benefits

Paid Time Off

Tuition Assistance

Employee Discounts, including tire discounts

Competitive Bonus Programs

Employees 401k Match

Diverse & Inclusive Work Environment

Employee Assistance Program

Future Growth Opportunities, including personal and professional

And many more benefits that come with working for a global industry leader!

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

EEO-Statement:

EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Continental offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to unlawful consideration to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. In addition, as a federal contractor, Con…