Assistant Director, National Media Relations

Position Overview

This position oversees AFSCME’s communications strategy for external media communications, including traditional media relations and new media strategies. It works closely with national union communications staff, affiliates, the press, and members, providing expertise in media outreach and messaging strategy. The role collaborates with the Executive Office, Organizing and Field Services, Political Action, and the Federal Government Affairs Department, and reports to the Associate Director and Director of Communications.

The position actively coordinates the union’s daily, weekly, and long-term messaging, managing the editorial calendar for strategic campaigns and ensuring all content aligns with union priorities. It also advises AFSCME’s President and other leaders on media strategy and prepares them for interviews and press opportunities. This position is a key member of the management team for campaigns and high-priority AFSCME initiatives.

Duties

• Oversees the planning, development, and implementation of national media strategy.
• Manages subordinate staff and other staff involved in media outreach and message development.
• Directs the development and execution of influencer marketing strategies and creative campaigns.
• Coordinates the union’s messaging strategy and manages the editorial calendar for strategic campaigns.
• Responsible for training and development of subordinate staff.
• Recommends polling, focus groups, advertising, and content strategies to advance union messaging.
• Supports worker mobilization and community/political outreach for targeted campaigns.
• Oversees the creation of emails, videos, press kits, direct mail, and other materials.
• Coordinates with affiliates to build effective media outreach communications capacity.
• Maintains standards across communications campaigns and oversees an online clearinghouse of materials.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support the department’s mission.

Requirements

Education and Experience

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with coursework 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. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

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.
• Proven ability to direct multi-dimensional voter and worker contact strategies.
• Knowledge of graphic design software, video production, and printing techniques.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to coordinate vendors and consultants for campaign activities.
• Spanish language skills are desirable.

Travel & Work Hours

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

Equal Opportunity Employer

AFSCME is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, disability, or any other classification protected by law.

To be considered

Please send a separate 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.