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VP, Communications

  • R-5237
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About Upstart

Upstart is the leading AI lending marketplace partnering with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit. By leveraging Upstart's AI marketplace, Upstart-powered banks and credit unions can have higher approval rates and lower loss rates across races, ages, and genders, while simultaneously delivering the exceptional digital-first lending experience their customers demand. More than 80% of borrowers are approved instantly, with zero documentation to upload.

Upstart is a digital-first company, which means that most Upstarters live and work anywhere in the United States. However, we also have offices in San Mateo, California; Columbus, Ohio; and Austin, Texas.

Most Upstarters join us because they connect with our mission of enabling access to effortless credit based on true risk. If you are energized by the impact you can make at Upstart, we’d love to hear from you!

The Team

We’re seeking a strategic and hands-on VP of Communications to lead all facets of our external communications function. This includes public relations, executive communications, corporate messaging, and media strategy.  

You’ll work cross-functionally to shape Upstart’s brand narrative and position us as a category-defining company at the forefront of AI, financial inclusion, and lending innovation.

 

Position Location - This role is available in the following locations: Remote, West Coast 

Time Zone Requirements - This team operates on the West Coast time zones.

Travel Requirements -  We expect you to travel to the San Mateo, CA office at least once a month to collaborate with leaders.  As a digital first company, the majority of your work can be accomplished remotely. The majority of our employees can live and work anywhere in the U.S but are encouraged to to still spend high quality time in-person collaborating via regular onsites.

 

How you’ll make an impact:

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive external communications plan aligned with company goals and mission.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with top-tier media outlets, journalists, and industry influencers to secure meaningful coverage that reflects Upstart’s mission and innovations.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor and lead spokesperson during sensitive communications moments.
  • Partner with the CEO and executive leadership to craft compelling narratives for media, speaking engagements, social media, and internal broadcasts.
  • Own all product communications and corporate announcements

 

Minimum Requirements:

  • 12+ years in communications, with significant experience leading PR, corporate comms, and executive comms for innovative, high-growth companies.
  • Strong understanding of the fintech landscape or other highly regulated environments.
  • Strategic and creative thinker with excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
  • Experience leading through sensitive or high-profile communications situations (e.g., crisis, product incidents, leadership transitions).
  • Advise execs on strategic communications, providing media training and presentation support.

Preferred qualifications 

  • Experience in corporate communications, public relations, or a related field, preferably in the consumer technology space.
  • Proven track record of managing product communications and media relations with a successful history of building and growing a function.
  • Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to work closely with executives and manage multiple stakeholders.

 

At Upstart, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package.  The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the below range. Your actual base pay will depend on your geographic location–with our “digital first” philosophy, Upstart uses compensation regions that vary depending on location. Individual pay is also determined by job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

In addition, Upstart provides employees with target bonuses, equity compensation, and generous benefits packages (including medical, dental, vision, and 401k).

United States | Remote - Anticipated Base Salary Range
$295,000—$330,000 USD

Upstart is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. We are dedicated to ensuring that underrepresented classes receive better access to affordable credit, and are just as committed to embracing diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices. We celebrate all cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, and know that we can only become better together. 

If you require reasonable accommodation in completing an application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please email candidate_accommodations@upstart.com

https://www.upstart.com/candidate_privacy_policy

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