The Communications Specialist (Awards) is responsible for creating persuasive and engaging submissions for various editorial awards. This role requires working closely with lawyers and Communications, Marketing, and Business Development colleagues to develop narratives that highlight firm achievements and innovations. The individual in this role has a passion for storytelling and an understanding of the media-based awards process. Location. This position can sit in any of our US offices and offers a hybrid work schedule. Responsibilities. Conduct thorough research of the awards being targeted, including criteria and previous winners. Collaborate with various stakeholders to gather information that should be highlighted in submissions. Write compelling narratives that effectively showcase the value and impact of the work being submitted, ensuring alignment with award criteria. Edit and refine submissions to ensure clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness. Develop and manage timelines for submission deadlines, ensuring all materials are completed and submitted on time. Help organize and maintain a database of potential awards, submission requirements, and deadlines for future reference. Build relationships with industry contacts to gather insights and tips for crafting successful submissions. Desired Skills Strong writing and editing skills; creativity with a passion for storytelling; and a keen sense of what makes a submission stand out. Ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner. Excellent organizational and project management skill. Possesses a strong understanding of an awards submission process. Minimum Education Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Communications, Journalism, or related field. Minimum Years of Experience 5 years of experience in Marketing, Public relations or similar field. Essential Job Expectations. While the specific job requirements of a DLA Piper position may vary depending upon scope of the job and area of specialty, there are certain universal requirements that are expected of all DLA Piper employees, which include but are not limited to:Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties. Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner. Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product. Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required. Foster positive work relationships. Comply with all firm policies and practices. Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as (a) working at a computer for extended periods of time, including on-screen reading and typing; (b) participating in digital/virtual conference calls; (c) participating in meetings as needed. Ability to work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment. Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned.