Manager, Communications

Job Description

OVERVIEW

The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) operates in a multifaceted environment that includes chain pharmacy executives, federal and state policymakers, supplier partners, media, and internal cross-functional departments. To be effective, communications must be tailored to each of these varied stakeholders.

NACDS is seeking a highly motivated and experienced communications professional to support the Association’s strategic communications initiatives. This position executes high-impact communications that advance NACDS’ policy, advocacy, member engagement, and organizational priorities. This hands-on role develops content and campaigns across owned, shared, and earned channels; upholds brand and editorial standards; and partners closely with internal stakeholders to translate complex policy and industry topics into clear, compelling narratives. The ideal candidate is equal parts creative and precise—adept at strategy, messaging, and production—with strong judgment on tone, timing, and visual consistency.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Content Creation & Campaign Execution

• Serve as communications lead for assigned business lines, developing tailored communications and integrated, cross-channel campaigns that advance business-line objectives while reinforcing NACDS’ enterprise narrative and priorities.
• Define KPIs per campaign, track performance across web, email, social, and media.
• Draft and edit high-quality content for owned, earned, and shared channels: emails, websites, advocacy alerts, scripts, social content, press releases/statements, etc.
• Translate complex policy, regulatory, and industry topics into accessible, audience-specific messages (members, policymakers, media, partners, etc.).
• Coordinate across the broader Communications team to ensure alignment, consistency, and efficient resourcing.
• Maintain a centralized message library (approved messages, data points, proof points, and reusable assets) and keep it current.
• Ensure brand and editorial consistency across NACDS programs, advocacy initiatives, and member-facing materials.

Design & Digital Media

• Create brand-aligned social graphics, infographics, one-pagers, slide decks, and light multimedia to support campaigns, reports, and events (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Convert complex topics into clear visual narratives and data visualizations; apply strong hierarchy, typography, color, and accessibility standards.
• Review, draft, and optimize website content for assigned business lines (accuracy, clarity, SEO, accessibility, brand consistency).
• Plan and schedule channel-specific content; coordinate publication calendars with colleagues to ensure cohesion across NACDS’ online presence.
• Build, QA, and deploy emails and newsletters in HubSpot (Marketing Hub), including template selection/builds, modules, personalization tokens, and dynamic content.

Engagement

• Identify media opportunities that raise visibility for assigned business lines.
• Build and maintain targeted media lists; research outlets/reporters; monitor coverage; surface timely angles aligned to NACDS’ priorities.
• As directed, support reputation management, issue response, and crisis communications.
• Manage inbound media intake for assigned business lines.
• Prepare briefing packets and coordinate logistics for interviews, statements, and press events as directed.

Performance Tracking & Optimization

• Monitor engagement metrics across newsletters, email campaigns, the NACDS website, and social media platforms.
• Compile performance summaries and insights for leadership review.
• Support digital optimization efforts—including SEO best practices, analytics review, and improvement of existing communications assets.
• Assist in enhancing the reach and effectiveness of NACDS promotional tools and initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, digital media, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ prior professional experience in communications or public relations.
• Experience in a trade association, non-profit, agency, or healthcare-related setting preferred.
• Demonstrated design and multimedia experience; ability to produce on-brand digital assets.
• Familiarity with basic HTML, SEO best practices, and analytics for web/email/social; ability to synthesize data into actionable recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate professionally and concisely across various audiences.
• Interest in healthcare policy and mission-driven advocacy within a government affairs/association context.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and reliable; able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

The above qualifications are representative, but not all-inclusive, of the experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position.

LOCATION

This position is located at NACDS headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. NACDS team members work onsite Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Teleworking is allowed on Mondays and Fridays.

EMPLOYMENT, SALARY & BENEFITS

This is a full-time, regular position; salary is dependent on background, training, and experience. NACDS offers a comprehensive health benefits plan, an amazing 401(k) program, generous paid time off, unparalleled access to professional development/training opportunities, and a high-energy culture of loyalty, flexibility, and fun. NACDS is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

• Pay: From $75,000.00 per year
• Benefits: 401(k) matching, Commuter assistance, Dental insurance, Employee assistance program, Flexible spending account, Health insurance, Life insurance, On-site gym, Paid time off, Parental leave, Professional development assistance, Vision insurance.
• Education: Bachelor’s (Required)
• Experience: Communications (5 years Required), Association/Non-profit/Agency (3 years Preferred).
• Ability to Commute: Arlington, VA 22209 (Required)

Applicants are invited to apply via Indeed: https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=965209514e55735b&from=shareddesktop_copy