Senior Communications Manager
Full-Time
Reports to: Chief of Communications and Strategic Initiatives

Organization:

Issue One is a nonpartisan, nonprofit advocacy organization that is uniting Republicans, Democrats, and independents in the movement for political reform. Issue One’s ReFormers Caucus of more than 200 former members of Congress, governors, and Cabinet officials is the largest bipartisan coalition of its kind ever assembled to advocate for solutions to strengthen our democracy. Issue One is building a multi-year initiative to win game-changing federal legislation that gets big money out of politics and fixes our broken political system.

Job Description

Issue One’s Senior Communications Manager will work with the Chief of Communications and Strategic Initiatives to manage and direct the organization’s internal and external communications and public relations. They will be a key leader in developing communications strategies and media tactics to create brand awareness for Issue One, the ReFormers Caucus, and priority legislative and public relations programs. S/he will be the primary point of contact for journalists, will proactively pitch stories and Issue One’s spokespeople, field questions from reporters and route them to the best expert on staff, and will write and disseminate press releases, op-eds, letters to the editor and editorial memos to the media. The Director will also manage Issue One’s marketing and advertising activities. Under the supervision of the Chief of Communications and Strategic Initiatives, they will work with all aspects of the organization to ensure powerful and consistent messaging, voice and branding, including interacting regularly with the CEO and the Executive Director.

Primary Responsibilities

●  Works with the Chief of Communications and Strategic Initiatives to develop the message and brand for priority initiatives like the “Don’t Mess with US” project, and to develop “campaign plans” for major projects.

●  Develops communications strategies, media tactics, messaging materials, and cultivates relationships with key reporters.

●  Prepares for and attends press conferences and media interviews.

●  Helps oversee, produce, and promote Issue One’s podcast products.

●  Serves as lead writer and editor for Issue One, producing a steady stream of op-eds and other products.

●  Oversees the organizational newsletter and coordinates with the Development and Legislative teams to ensure accuracy and message consistency for all communications.

●  Helps manage the design of and content on Issue One social media platforms.

●  Arranges public appearances, lectures and exhibits — including talking points — for senior team and experts.

●  Assists with mass emails, marketing materials, and speechwriting.

●  Ensures branding and messaging are consistent, timely and relevant.

●  Develops marketing and advertising collateral in collaboration with Issue One’s Communications and Development teams.

●  Keeps up-to-date through news and meetings with all issues that affect Issue One and the democracy reform sector.

●  Works with the Legislative Team to emphasize Hill-related messaging, ranging from events to news releases.

●  Monitors and documents media mentions of Issue One.

●  Helps create and manage department budget (paid media, consultants, and other products) with the Chief of Communications and Strategic Initiatives.

●  Trains spokespeople and Issue One experts on media interview best practices.

●  Coordinates logistics for press events, media trainings, and public speaking opportunities for spokespeople.

●  Trains organization in communications best-practices.

Position Requirements:

●  5-7 years experience in communications and press.

●  Excellent writing skills for diverse audiences: the media; the public; policy professionals.

●  Excellent detail-oriented project management.

●  Enthusiastic communicator and presenter.

●  Strong writing, editing, pitching and proofreading skills are essential, including ability to present concepts orally.

●  Excellent organizational and planning skills.

●  Superb project management and time management skills.

●  High capacity to work under pressure, under deadline, and think quickly on your feet.

●  Strong judgment on what kinds of tactics and campaigns will attract positive media attention.

●  Self-motivated with a positive and professional approach to management.

Location:

This will be a full-time position based in Washington DC. Some travel required. Currently Issue One staff are working remotely because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Salary & Benefits:

Issue One offers competitive salaries, including benefits for all full-time employees. Salary range is $70,000-$90,000.