At SOM, we are a collective committed to shaping a better future for our clients, communities and planet. We aspire to create the most sustainable, impactful work through creative, interdisciplinary teams with all the resources and diversity of a global firm. We value those who are passionate about excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. Together we can achieve great things.
Success at SOM Means
Ideas: We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm.
Knowledge: We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge.
Product: We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, and delivery of our work.
Individual: We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm.
Team: We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential.
Firm: We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work.
Position Responsibilities
Creates and executes proactive communications strategy to showcase our projects, people, and expertise in APAC design and business media, media-focused events, and editorial opportunities. Works with Project Managers to track project milestones and opportunities for public relations and internal updates. Coordinates and collaborates with the broader communications team.
Writes and edits effective communications materials, articles, news releases, web features, social media posts, and internal communication pieces for projects and events led out of the Hong Kong and Melbourne offices.
Develops and maintains strong relationships with key media in Hong Kong and the Asia Pacific market on behalf of the studio. Oversees communications with Asia Pacific media outlets and develops responses to interviews, general inquiries, or requests for quotes from office leadership.
Maintains database of local press contacts and tracks press exposure in the region. Counsels spokespeople and conducts interview preparation.
Leads and executes Asia Pacific design awards strategy in close collaboration with other regional Communications Managers and Asia Pacific design leadership.
Coordinates with Visual team to identify photography requirements and priorities for the Hong Kong and Melbourne offices, assisting with photoshoot logistics, shot list development, and final image selection with design leaders as needed.
Coordinates with the Marketing Managers in Hong Kong and Melbourne to align communications strategy to support key Asia Pacific regional pursuits with external-facing campaigns and messaging.
Coordinates the Hong Kong and Melbourne office attendance at press and awards-related external events.
Performs other tasks and responsibilities as may be required, including managing a small communications staff if the team is able to grow.
Minimum Qualifications
Completion of four-year undergraduate degree in architecture, communications, journalism, or a related field
8+ years experience in communications within the A/E/C industry
Collaborative approach to working with leadership, designers, clients and external parties to share SOM’s story.
Proven track record of securing noteworthy media placements
Exceptional written and verbal communications skills. Natural storyteller.
Proactive, detail-oriented and committed to achieving tangible results.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google, Adobe InDesign and Photoshop
Strong project management skills and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Experience with Salesforce CRM (or another CRM system) and OpenAsset (or another DAM system)
Our Culture
Our creative, interdisciplinary teams work like small, dynamic studios, with all the resources and diversity of a global firm.
We believe an inclusive environment improves our teams, our firm, and our communities and are passionate about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Our DEI Action Plan was created to bring meaningful change to our profession, starting with our own culture and practices.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Visit this page to learn more about SOM's employment policy and how to apply offline: www.som.com/employment_opportunities_and_policy
For more about SOM: www.som.com