Global Content & Thought Leadership Lead (Sr. Manager or Director) - Remote US o
WFA Digital Insight
As demand for sophisticated digital content continues to rise, with over 70% of companies now investing in content marketing, the role of a Global Content and Thought Leadership Lead has never been more critical. With the ability to work remotely, this position offers a unique blend of flexibility and challenge, ideal for experienced content leaders who can balance strategic vision with editorial excellence. AECOM, a leader in the infrastructure industry, is seeking a seasoned professional to drive its global content strategy, leveraging insights and expertise to shape compelling narratives that influence clients and reinforce market leadership. Before applying, candidates should be aware that they will need to demonstrate not only a deep understanding of the issues shaping the industry but also the ability to translate complex ideas into engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences.
Job Description
About the Role
The Global Content and Thought Leadership Lead is a pivotal role at AECOM, responsible for defining and delivering a cohesive global content and thought leadership strategy that strengthens the brand, supports growth priorities, and elevates the AECOM voice worldwide. This senior content leader will work closely with the global head of marketing, the marketing leadership team, business leaders, and subject-matter experts to ensure that all content is distinctive, relevant, and activated effectively across channels. The role involves working with a variety of stakeholders to identify priority themes, points of view, and opportunities to drive relevance, differentiation, and spark discussion in the industry.The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of the issues shaping AECOM’s clients’ agendas and the global infrastructure industry. They will have a proven track record in developing and delivering high-impact, insight-driven content across various platforms. This role requires someone who can balance the creative aspects of content development with the strategic and business objectives of the company, ensuring that all content contributes to the growth and brand positioning of AECOM.
Given the senior nature of this role, the Global Content and Thought Leadership Lead will be expected to provide leadership and guidance to a team of writers and editors, ensuring that all content meets the highest editorial standards, tone of voice, and quality benchmarks. The role will also involve managing external freelancers and agencies, ensuring seamless integration with in-house capabilities and consistent quality.
What You Will Do
- Develop and lead a global content and thought leadership strategy aligned with brand positioning, enterprise strategic growth priorities, and client needs.
- Serve as the editorial lead on complex, high-profile, multi-author content, including flagship research, brand narratives, messaging frameworks, and presentations.
- Partner with senior leaders across the business to identify priority themes and opportunities to drive relevance and differentiation.
- Chair and coordinate the Global Editorial Committee, owning the global editorial calendar and leading structured planning.
- Confirm that all content meets agreed editorial standards, tone of voice, and quality benchmarks prior to publication.
- Oversee the prioritization, resourcing, and sequencing of content to maximize impact and reuse across regions, sectors, and channels.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing in-house team of writers and editors.
- Manage external freelancers and agencies as required.
- Write and edit senior-level thought leadership content that reinforces AECOM’s expertise and elevates the client experience.
- Research emerging trends and campaign-related topics, developing original ideas and formats.
- Collaborate closely with authors, contributors, and clients to shape content, secure alignment, and manage review and clearance processes.
- Champion AECOM’s Stylebook to elevate writing standards and editorial best practice across the organization.
What We Are Looking For
- Proven experience in content strategy and thought leadership, preferably in the infrastructure or related industries.
- Deep understanding of the issues shaping the global infrastructure industry and AECOM’s clients’ agendas.
- Strong editorial and writing skills, with the ability to develop compelling narratives that influence clients and reinforce market leadership.
- Experience in leading and managing high-performing teams, including writers, editors, and external freelancers.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize, resource, and sequence content effectively.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects and deadlines.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work with senior leaders and subject-matter experts.
- Experience with content management systems and digital platforms.
- Understanding of brand and marketing principles, with the ability to integrate content strategy with broader corporate and marketing objectives.
Nice to Have
- Experience in managing global content and thought leadership strategies.
- Knowledge of SEO principles and how to optimize content for digital platforms.
- Experience in managing and developing teams remotely.
- Certification in content marketing or a related field.
- Experience with Monday.com or similar project management tools.
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation package.
- Opportunity to work with a leading company in the infrastructure industry.
- Flexible and remote work arrangements, allowing for a better work-life balance.
- Professional development opportunities, including training and certification programs.
- Access to a global network of professionals and subject-matter experts.
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
- Generous PTO and holiday package.
- Remote stipend to support home office setup and maintenance.
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong portfolio: Showcase your ability to develop and execute a global content and thought leadership strategy, highlighting examples of high-impact content that you have led or contributed to.
- Emphasize your leadership skills: Given the senior nature of this role, be prepared to discuss your experience in leading and managing teams, including how you motivate and develop team members.
- Showcase your understanding of the industry: Demonstrate a deep understanding of the issues shaping the global infrastructure industry and how AECOM operates within this context.
- Highlight your digital skills: Given the remote nature of this role, emphasize your proficiency in digital tools, including content management systems, project management software, and digital platforms.
- Prepare to discuss your content strategy: Be ready to outline your approach to content strategy and thought leadership, including how you stay current with industry trends and how you measure the success of your content initiatives.
- Be prepared for scenario-based questions: The interviewer may present you with hypothetical scenarios related to content strategy, team management, or stakeholder engagement. Be prepared to think critically and respond strategically.
- Discuss your experience with SEO: Highlight any experience you have in optimizing content for digital platforms and discuss how you integrate SEO principles into your content strategy.
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