Director, Communications

Director, Communications
The Director, Communications is responsible for executing and supporting the day-to-day internal and external communications strategy and tactics for the International Franchise Association. Responsibilities include media relations, member communications, social media strategy and content, new media, executive positioning, development of materials, and advising on messaging. This individual must possess a deep understanding of political and business communication, organizational priorities, and considerations surrounding a member-facing organization. This position will report to the Vice President of Communications while providing guidance to a team of communications specialists and external consultants.

Responsibilities
Production and editing of wide-ranging communications materials including communications plans, press releases, op-eds and articles, member communications, social media posts and content, visuals, scripts, speeches, talking points, and more

Drive communications strategy to support organizational priorities and promotion of the franchise business model

Build and maintain relationships with members of the media, regularly staying in touch with key reporters, proactively pitching ideas, closely monitoring current events and news cycles, and presenting media opportunities

Draft and oversee various IFA communications channels including newsletters, websites, columns, and social media in conjunction with IFA’s marketing team

Lead on executive communications and positioning for the IFA President and CEO, including speaking engagements, media opportunities, thought leadership, social media, writing opportunities, and member communication, among others — and staff IFA leadership for various engagements accordingly

Stay apprised of media and social media trends, regularly suggesting ideas and best practices through continued education

Review and edit organization-wide outbound communications materials, serving as an internal lead for review of any public-facing materials

Advise on external communications to IFA staff and leadership

Other duties as assigned, such as photography, website management, social media management, video development and production, and graphic and visual communication

Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, political science, or related field preferred

Minimum 6–8 years’ experience in political communications, public affairs, or media relations/advocacy; senior communications management role either in-house, with an agency, or on Capitol Hill preferred

Minimum 5 years’ experience in media relations with a proven track record of established media contacts and results, and demonstrated skill and comfort in proactively building relationships with target reporters

Extensive successful writing and editing experience on complicated subject matter, with an ability to meet deadlines and turn projects quickly and free of errors; must have a keen eye for detail

Demonstrated experience and leadership in managing comprehensive strategic communications, media relations, and an external communications program to advance an organization’s mission and goals

Ability to apply innovative and strategic thinking to plans; excellent judgment and creative problem‑solving skills; strong negotiation and conflict‑resolution skills

Ability to make confident decisions on direction, anticipate and navigate changes in the environment as they occur, and understand the business climate and franchise business model

Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to speak confidently, persuasively, and effectively when interfacing with senior management, Board of Directors, and staff

This position must be located in Washington, DC, with occasional travel

To apply, send cover letter and resume to [email protected].

The International Franchise Association is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, or any other category prohibited by local, state, or federal law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, promotion, compensation, benefits, and termination. IFA is committed to achieving an inclusive, diverse workforce that values every individual. We firmly believe that hiring individuals with varying perspectives and backgrounds contributes to our success as an organization, and we strive to create an environment that fosters inclusiveness.

About the International Franchise Association
Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance, and promote franchising and the approximately 790,492 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.4 million direct jobs, $825.4 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development.