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Forterra · 5 days ago

Communications Manager (Contract)

Arlington, VA

Contract

Onsite

Mid, Senior Level

5+ years exp

Forterra is a leading provider of autonomous systems for ground-based movement in the working world. They are seeking a highly motivated Communications Manager to lead external storytelling efforts and manage strategic partner and product messaging while maintaining strong relationships with media outlets.

Defense & Space

Growth Opportunities

Responsibilities

Own and maintain a robust network of media contacts across defense, technology, business, and innovation beats

Draft and create assets in support of announcements and launches, including press releases, media lists, and coverage analysis report

Proactively pitch stories to reporters, editors, and producers—ranging from product launches to thought leadership and partner milestones

Identify and develop stories that align with Forterra’s mission, value proposition, and market momentum

Contribute fresh ideas and perspectives on building the company’s public presence

Secure positive media coverage to boost Forterra’s brand

Respond to inbound media interest and coordinate timely, on-message responses

Prepare executives and subject matter experts with briefings, messaging, and media training as needed

Monitor media and stay informed and up-to-date on industry trends and key industry figures

Develop and execute messaging frameworks for Forterra’s strategic partners, co-branded efforts, and product integrations

Collaborate with Product, Engineering, and Business Development to ensure message consistency across internal and external touchpoints

Author clear, compelling content that conveys product value, technical credibility, and mission impact tailored to both defense and commercial audiences

Craft multi-channel stories that showcase how Forterra’s platforms solve real-world operational challenges

Build a narrative arc that connects autonomy, national security, logistics transformation, and market opportunity

Ghostwrite blogs, op-eds, and customer features to elevate Forterra’s voice in the public discourse

Coordinate closely with Marketing, Product, People, and Government Affairs to ensure alignment across Forterra’s communications ecosystem

Support internal messaging and leadership visibility around key announcements and storytelling moments

Qualification

Media relationsMessaging frameworksStorytellingCross-functional communicationTechnical writingNetworkingCollaborationCreativity

Required

5–8 years of communications, media relations, or PR experience in high-growth tech, defense, mobility, or logistics sectors

Demonstrated ability to secure earned media coverage through direct outreach and long-standing press relationships

A strong personal rolodex of media contacts and the instinct to develop new relationships with key reporters and editors

Proven success translating complex, technical subjects into impactful public narratives

Excellent writing, editing, and message development skills

Experience working cross-functionally in fast-paced, entrepreneurial environments

Preferred

Background in dual-use technology or companies serving both defense and commercial markets

Familiarity with DoD acquisition cycles, mission applications, and industry events

Experience managing agency relationships or collaborating with external PR consultants

Prior involvement in product launches or partnership announcements with high visibility

Benefits

Premium Healthcare Benefits: Three plan options, including an HSA-eligible plan, with Forterra covering 80% of the plan premium for you and your dependents.

Basic Life/AD&D, short and long-term disability insurance plans 100% covered by Forterra, plus the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your dependents.

Extremely generous company holiday calendar including a winter break in December.

Competitive paid time off (PTO) offering 20 days accrued per year.

A minimum of 7 weeks fully paid parental leave for birth/adoption.

A $9k annual tuition reimbursement or professional development stipend.

Fully stocked beverage refrigerators with all the Celsius your little heart desires.

401(k) retirement savings plan, including traditional, Roth 401(k), and after-tax deferral with company match up to 4%.