Director of Communications and Marketing

Position Title: Director of Communications and Marketing
Reports to: President
Location: Washington, D.C.
Time Commitment: Full time; Office Hours (9:00am – 5:00pm ET); In office Monday and Friday with option to work remote 1 day Tuesday – Thursday.

About the Institute of Makers of Explosives (IME):
The Institute of Makers of Explosives (IME) is the leading trade association representing U.S. manufacturers of commercial explosives and their suppliers. IME promotes the safe and secure manufacture, transport, use, and storage of explosive materials through advocacy, industry standards, and education. With a strong presence in regulatory and legislative affairs, IME works closely with government agencies, industry leaders, and the public to ensure best practices across the commercial explosives industry.

Position Summary:
The Director of Communications and Marketing is responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communications, branding, and marketing strategies that support IME’s mission, visibility, advocacy efforts, and member engagement. This role will shape how IME communicates with its members, industry stakeholders, government partners, and the public, ultimately strengthening IME’s influence, reputation, and the safety culture across the commercial explosives industry.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with strong experience in public affairs, brand development, media relations, digital marketing, and crisis communication—especially within highly regulated or technical industries.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Communications & Branding

Develop and implement a cohesive communications and marketing strategy aligned with IME’s strategic goals.

Oversee all messaging and branding to ensure consistency and alignment with IME’s values and mission.

Serve as a key advisor to the President and the IME team on public messaging and communication strategies.

Media & Public Relations

Act as IME’s spokesperson or coordinate media spokespersons for high-profile engagements.

Build and maintain relationships with key media outlets, journalists, and industry publications.

Draft press releases, statements, opinion pieces, and other public-facing content.

Digital & Content Marketing

Lead the development of digital strategies across web, email, and social media platforms to promote awareness, engagement, and thought leadership.

Oversee the creation of compelling content, including reports, white papers, newsletters, videos, and infographics.

Manage and implement website updates to ensure content is current.

Define and track KPIs to measure the effectiveness of communication and marketing strategies.

Member & Stakeholder Engagement

Design and implement targeted communication strategies to engage current and prospective members.

Develop and implement communication strategies to demonstrate the value proposition of IME membership.

Support internal and external communications related to IME initiatives, events, and programs.

Create materials and campaigns that support IME’s legislative and regulatory advocacy work.

Develop IME’s “Weekly Blast” newsletter.

Crisis & Risk Communication

Develop and execute crisis communication plans related to industry incidents, policy challenges, or other high-risk situations.

Provide rapid response communications and media coordination during emergencies or sensitive events.

Marketing & Campaign Oversight

Oversee marketing strategies for IME publications, programs, and events (including the Spring and Annual Meetings).

Collaborate with the IME team to ensure marketing supports membership growth, sponsorships, and revenue goals.

Develop and implement communications and marketing budget.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.

5+ years of experience in communications or marketing, preferably in an association.

Experience in government relations communications or technical sectors (e.g., mining, manufacturing, energy, defense) strongly preferred.

Demonstrated expertise in strategic communications planning, brand management, and media relations.

Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.

Proven experience leading cross-functional teams and managing consultants or vendors.

Proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms (Illustrator, Websuite2, Prowley Media Monitoring).

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment with high attention to detail and sound judgment.

Work Environment:
This role may require occasional travel to member sites and industry conferences. The position is based in the District of Columbia and therefore the incumbent must reside in the District of Columbia metropolitan area.

Requirements:

Drug testing required (as permitted by DC law).

Salary and Benefits:

Salary: Up to $125,000*
*Negotiable based on prior experience.
Starting annual salary will be determined based on individual qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, FSA, 401k, paid time off, tuition assistance, transportation subsidy, and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply:
Please submit a resume, cover letter, and a portfolio or samples of relevant communications work to [email protected].