Assistant Director, National Media Relations

Department:

Communications

Location:

Washington, D.C.

Grade:

Management Grade 7

Salary Range:

$127,013 – $170,966

This position oversees AFSCME’s communications strategy for external media communications including traditional media relations and new media strategies. This position works closely with national union communications staff, affiliates, the press, and members providing expertise in communications activities related to media outreach and messaging strategy. Works in concert with the Executive Office, Organizing and Field Services, Political Action and the Federal Government Affairs Department’s management and reports to the Associate Director and Director of Communications. Actively coordinates the union’s daily, weekly, and long-term messaging, managing the editorial calendar for strategic campaigns ensuring all content is aligned with union priorities. Advises AFSCME’s President and other leaders and executives on media strategy, preparing them for interviews and other press opportunities. Serves as an integral member of the management team on campaigns and other high-priority AFSCME initiatives.

Duties:

• Oversees the planning and development and directs implementation of national media strategy.
• Oversees all subordinate staff as well as other staff members involved in the implementation of media outreach, and message and strategy development.
• Oversees the development and execution of influencer marketing strategies and creative campaigns.
• Actively coordinates the union’s daily, weekly, and long-term messaging strategy, managing the editorial calendar for strategic campaigns, ensuring all content is aligned with union priorities.
• Responsible for training and employee development of subordinate staff.
• Makes recommendations on necessary polling, focus groups, paid advertising, earned media, and digital and print content that will advance the union’s priorities and message.
• Assists with worker mobilization and community and political outreach efforts associated with targeted campaigns.
• Oversees conception, development and execution of emails, video, press kits, direct mail pieces, and other materials for initiatives, as assigned.
• Coordinates with affiliates to develop and implement effective media outreach communications capacity.
• Performs other duties as required to support the department and its mission.
• Ensures standards throughout communications campaigns and maintains an online clearinghouse of communications materials.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of departmental activities.

Requirements:

Education and Experience

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with course work in labor relations, communications, political science or liberal arts; a minimum of seven (7) years of experience in labor, political or community organizing and campaign communications, including five (5) years of communications and campaign work, or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Skills Requirements

• Advanced knowledge of and experience in media outreach.
• Ability to manage and lead staff and conceptualize, plan and implement major programs and projects.
• Advanced ability to develop a strategic message and enforce message discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to conceive and direct multi-dimensional voter and worker contact strategies.
• Knowledge of advanced graphic design software, video production and printing techniques.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to coordinate vendors and consultants involved in campaign activities.
• Ability to communicate in Spanish is desirable.

Travel & Work Hours

• Ability to travel for AFSCME business, including political and organizing campaigns required.
• Travel and extended work hours, including weekends, are required.
• A valid driver’s license is required.

AFSCME is an equal opportunity employer, and, as such, does not discriminate an employee or applicant on the basis of race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, disability, or any other classification protected from discrimination under applicable law.

To apply:

Please send an email with an attached cover letter and resume to: [email protected].

Also, include the position title, and if you are a current member of an AFSCME Local, in the subject line of your email.