Kekst CNC (kekstcnc.com) is a global strategic communications firm that specializes in protecting and enhancing reputations. From 12 locations around the globe, our team of 300 professionals provides expert communications counsel informed by judgment, insights, and data-led analysis to help clients successfully manage their most pressing business challenges and capitalize on significant opportunities. Our work includes special situations (such as M&A transactions, reputational crises, shareholder activism, litigation support, cybersecurity); investor and media relations; long-term strategic consulting assignments; and research and insights.

Kekst CNC offers a unique experience for professional growth and camaraderie:

- A boutique, client-focused culture of experienced practitioners committed to bespoke counsel and premium-level execution, relying on the expertise of our people at all levels to produce the best possible outcomes for our clients.

- The opportunity to make an impact on complex strategic situations at the nexus of the media, financial, legal, and corporate worlds.

- An environment with colleagues and mentors who operate at the highest levels of the communications field and prioritize junior development and support.

- A flat, merit-based structure that prioritizes autonomy and offers a platform for young professionals to both learn and stretch to new levels of responsibility.

The position: We are seeking high-achieving Associates, with interests in communications, media, law, finance, and capital markets, to join our New York office. Professionals become familiar with all of our practice areas and many industries as we counsel clients through business challenges that are critical, timely, and often news-making. Associates take on considerable responsibilities that build a deep understanding of strategic communications:

- Play a central role on client teams by leading and coordinating workstreams, overseeing tactical execution by junior colleagues, and proactively contributing insights and opportunities that help the firm achieve client objectives.

- Take responsibility for the development and execution of top-quality communications strategies and materials (e.g., shareholder letters, employee memos, press releases, reporter briefings, investor call scripts and presentations, strategy plans).

- Develop strategic communications perspectives and knowledge to serve as a trusted, value-additive counselor to clients, engaging directly with clients and their advisors.

- Build and manage relationships with the media community and serve as a client spokesperson with external audiences.

Contribute to the overall success of the firm on important matters such as new business development, mentorship and training for junior professionals, and committee participation.

The applicant: We are looking for bright, creative individuals, ideally with a background in communications, finance, investor relations, journalism or law, who have excelled in their past experiences, and who are eager to quickly grasp the dynamic business matters in which we are involved. Associates bring to Kekst CNC a broad, often interdisciplinary range of experiences – ultimately demonstrating a clear interest in strategic and financial communications. Professionals who excel at Kekst demonstrate the following:

- Exceptional writing abilities and verbal communication skills.

- Team player and self-starter who can perform under pressure and thrive in unpredictable (but always interesting) work schedules.

- Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking skills to complex assignments.

- Strong interpersonal and networking skills.

- Thoughtful approach to managing and serving as a role model for junior professionals.

- Strong understanding of business, legal, and policy topics; a strong understanding of capital markets is a plus.

- Three to seven years of professional experience – with a strong preference for candidates with two to four years of experience in relevant industries (e.g. communications, investor relations, finance, law) – as well as outstanding academic achievement.

We strongly encourage candidates from all demographic and personal backgrounds to apply to Kekst CNC. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Kekst CNC considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, familial and marriage or civil partnership status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law, where applicable.

Please submit a resume and cover letter explaining your interest in this role at Kekst CNC as part of your application.