Senior Director, Public Affairs

PLUS Communications

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

Posted 9/24/2026full-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 manage multiple projects. Proficient in developing media strategies, cultivating reporter relationships, and synthesizing complex policy information for diverse audiences.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Public Affairs ExperienceMedia Relations ExpertiseAP Style ProficiencyProject Management SkillsCoalition Building

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Writing and EditingMedia Strategy DevelopmentCampaign MonitoringPresentation DevelopmentTechnical Content Synthesis

Soft Skills

Relationship BuildingProject ManagementCommunication Skills

Industry Keywords

Grassroots AdvocacyMedia OutreachDigital CommunicationsPrint MediaBroadcast MediaOpinion ColumnsCampaign Deliverables

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Craft narratives by distilling complex policy and regulatory information into messaging for varied audiences
Draft press releases, talking points, media statements, opinion pieces, fact sheets, and other media materials
Develop media strategies and pitch reporters across print, broadcast, and online mediums
Coordinate media outreach and cultivate reporter relationships
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 digital, print, social, and broadcast channels
Proven experience in writing and editing materials and working with the press
Strong understanding of AP Style
Experience securing high-profile media hits and opinion columns in top-tier outlets
Robust network of reporters and editors across varied focuses
Ability to manage several projects simultaneously
Coalition building and grassroots advocacy is a plus, but not mandatory

Benefits

Comp & perks

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