Senior Director, Public Affairs

PLUS Communications

. Craft narratives by distilling complex policy and regulatory information into tangible messaging for varied audiences .

Posted 10/15/2026full-timeArlington • Virginia • United StatesSenior💰 $120,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in public affairs and media relations, with a strong ability to craft compelling narratives and develop effective media strategies. Proven track record in writing, editing, and securing media coverage while managing multiple projects and client relationships.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Public Affairs ExperienceMedia Relations ExpertiseAP Style ProficiencyProject Management SkillsStrong Organizational Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

WritingEditingMedia Strategy DevelopmentCampaign TrackingPresentation Development

Soft Skills

Attention to DetailClient EngagementCommunication Skills

Industry Keywords

Grassroots Field TeamsCoalition BuildingEarned MediaDigital CommunicationsPrint MediaBroadcast MediaOpinion Columns

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Craft narratives by distilling complex policy and regulatory information into tangible messaging for varied audiences
Draft media and messaging materials, including press releases, talking points, media statements, opinion pieces, and fact sheets
Advise clients on earned media opportunities and recommend angles, outlets, and timing
Prepare clients and spokespeople for media interviews
Develop media strategies and pitch reporters across print, broadcast, and online media
Manage grassroots field teams for coalition building and local earned media efforts
Develop presentations, collateral materials, strategic plans, and reports
Track and monitor campaign deliverables
Serve as project manager for key accounts
Liaise between PLUS’ internal team, clients, agency partners, and external vendors

Requirements

What you’ll need

8-10 years of relevant experience in public affairs or media relations, ideally in an agency or Capitol Hill/administration setting
Interest in public affairs and policy issues
Ability to synthesize technical content
Understanding of the communications landscape and how digital, print, social, and broadcast channels work
Proven experience in writing and editing materials and working with the press
Strong understanding of AP Style
Proven record of securing high-profile media hits and opinion columns in top-tier outlets
Established relationships with reporters, editors, and producers
Ability to develop pitches connecting client priorities to the news cycle
Comfort engaging with reporters, clients, and vendors daily
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage several projects simultaneously
Ability to balance a high-volume workload while maintaining attention to detail

Benefits

Comp & perks

Year-end bonus opportunity
Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
401(k)
Life insurance
Paid parental leave
Paid vacation
Paid sick leave
Work from home hybrid environment