Director, External Communications

The Director, External Communications will lead CyrusOne's external communications strategy across national, industry and local markets. This role is responsible for media relations and public relations, local and community communications, corporate reputation, issues and crisis communications, executive media engagement, and management of CyrusOne's external PR agency. The ideal candidate is an experienced communications leader with exceptional judgment, strong media instincts and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-moving, highly visible industry. This individual will help CyrusOne proactively tell its story, strengthen relationships with key media, anticipate and manage emerging issues, and navigate complex communications surrounding the continued growth of digital infrastructure. The Director will serve as a senior communications advisor and work closely with the Vice President of Marketing & Communications, Corporate Communications, Community Affairs, Government Affairs, Legal, Development, Operations, Finance, and executive leadership. RESPONSIBILITIES Media Relations & Public Relations Lead CyrusOne's external media relations and PR strategy across national, business, trade, technology, infrastructure, energy and local media. Serve as the primary internal communications lead for proactive and reactive media engagement. Build and maintain strong relationships with national, industry, regional and local journalists. Identify proactive opportunities to strengthen CyrusOne's visibility, credibility and industry positioning. Develop media strategies, messaging, Q&A, talking points, briefing materials and other external communications. Oversee media inquiries received through press@cyrusone.com, ensuring appropriate internal coordination, escalation and response. Provide strategic communications counsel surrounding significant company announcements, partnerships, milestones and business developments. Ensure national and local communications strategies work together to support CyrusOne's broader corporate narrative. Local & Community Communications Develop and execute localized communications strategies across CyrusOne's development and operating markets. Lead local and regional media engagement related to CyrusOne projects and operations. Build relationships with reporters and other relevant media in priority local markets. Develop locally relevant narratives around economic development, jobs, community investment, infrastructure, power, water, environmental considerations and other issues important to local stakeholders. Partner closely with Community Affairs, Government Affairs, Development, Operations and Legal to ensure communications reflect the specific context of each market. Identify proactive opportunities to tell CyrusOne's story through local media and credible third-party voices. Monitor local media, public narratives and emerging issues in priority markets. Develop communications strategies when…