Potomac Flacks

Hill Flack Stoick Named VP at Direct Impact

Jordan Stoick has joined Direct Impact as Vice President.  Most recently, Stoick served as the Communications Director for U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS).  Previously, Stoick was Press Secretary for the Senate Republican Conference under Chairman Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN), for U.S. Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and for former Rep. Bob Beauprez (R-CO).  In 2002, he served as a grassroots field director for then-Representative John Thune's campaign for the U.S. Senate.  (PF tipster)

Sen. Reed Names McGowan, TV News Vet, as Deputy Press Secretary

Tara McGowan has been hired as Deputy Press Secretary for Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI).  McGowan has worked as a Researcher and Production Assistant with PBS’s “Frontline” and as a Broadcast Associate with CBS News’ “60 Minutes.”  Before that, she was an intern for “The CBS Evening News with Katie Couric.”  McGowan also worked as a Researcher for a media documentary series on the Independent Film Channel.  (CQ’s “People on the Move” column)

Experience Hill Flack Bozek Joins Edelman

Andrea Bozek has been hired as an Account Supervisor at Edelman, a global public relations firm.  Bozek was Communications Director for U.S. Rep. Chris Lee (R-NY). Before that, she was Press Secretary for former Rep. Tom Reynolds (R-NY).  Bozek was also a Regional Coordinator and Research Analyst for the 2008 presidential campaign of Sen. John McCain (R-AZ). She previously served as a Communications Assistant at the National Republican Congressional Committee (CQ’s “People on the Move” column).

JOB OF THE WEEK #1: Communications Director, Americans for Prosperity

 The Communications Director will develop and implement the overall communications strategy for Americans for Prosperity and Americans for Prosperity Foundation. While working with other department managers and the senior management team, the candidate will make recommendations and implement the communication strategy for all national projects. The director will establish and cultivate relationships with the news media and will formulate, draft, edit and pitch various forms of communication. Reporting to the Executive Vice President, the director will also manage the communications team. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:                         

-Identify strategic media outreach opportunities to enhance coverage for AFP Foundation and AFP with earned media including television, print, radio and online media 

-Cultivate and manage relationships with media and outside PR firm. Pinpoint key members of the national media covering AFP and AFP Foundation issue areas and establish working relationships 

-Formulate, draft, edit and pitch news releases, opinion pieces, letters to the editor and issue talking points 

-Serve as a spokesperson for the AFP Foundation and AFP in the national print, television and radio interviews 

-Drive media attendance and organize technical details for national media events such as press conferences, RightOnline, Defending the American Dream Summit and other events 

-Monitor AFP Foundation and AFP national media coverage and identify areas for improvement or increased opportunity. 

-Identify and develop alliances, coalitions and communications support contacts at other free-market organizations 

-Manage the editing and proofreading of all communications materials ensuring that copy adheres to overall messaging and editorial guidelines                         

-Oversee all communications projects to ensure their timely delivery and high quality 

-Recommend and work directly with the Director of Online Strategy on website content and messaging 

-Supervise the communications department staff 

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:                         

-Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations or related field preferred 

-Seven plus years directly related to public relations/communications, with at least three years in a strategic role 

-Demonstrated aptitude for strategic planning and execution 

-Familiarity with free-market policy issues a requirement 

-Exceptional writing and verbal skills and thorough understanding of writing/editing for a variety of target audiences 

-Knowledge of the systems and procedures involved in operating an effective communications campaign 

-Strong project management skills with the ability to organize, schedule and track projects 

-Strong interpersonal skills to work with all levels of staff, vendors members and press 

-Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively, in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

-A firm commitment to advancing every individual's right to economic freedom and opportunity through free markets 

-Integrity, humility, and an entrepreneurial attitude

TO APPLY: 

Please submit a cover letter, resume and salary history/requirements to: Heather de la Riva at [email protected] with the position title in the subject line. AFPF is an equal opportunity employer. No phone calls please.

JOB OF THE WEEK #2: VP of Communications – Vital Voices Global Partnership

The VP of Communications will create and execute a marketing plan to drive interest in Vital Voices with marketing strategies that include: PR, Advertising, internet marketing and other promotions. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 15 years experience in public relations, public affairs or communications working with a well known corporation, public relations firm or nonprofit/non-governmental organization; a successful record creating, strengthening or positioning an organization's image/identity, and developing a global public affairs and communications program; proven ability to mobilize resources for communications activities; extensive media relations experience with current and high level contacts in well known print, TV, and online media outlets; clear success producing high quality publications, publicity and press releases for external consumption and for internal communications and education; proven expertise in creating and managing successful social technologies including the Web and social networking and understanding of how technology can drive and enhance a communications strategy; and experience working with celebrities or spokespeople of the highest level. In addition, the ideal candidate will have 3 plus years of solid brand and design experience, with exposure to brand strategy, identity development, print and digital marketing materials, Web sites, events, packaging, advertising, and displays. 

This position is best suited for someone with in-depth knowledge of international development issues, especially womens leadership and empowerment; proven experience and success working in a global multicultural environment for a rapidly growing organization; outstanding leadership and interpersonal skills; and with the ability to impart credibility, trust, and integrity and thrive in a highly collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

- With senior leadership team, and program and communications staff, establish a strategic communications agenda that advances Vital Voices regional and issue-area programs in the short term and positions its issues for maximum impact in the long term;

- Develop and implement an organization-wide communications and marketing strategy that will raise the visibility of Vital Voices among current and new audiences;

- Create new avenues to promote the organization's image and extend its reach; guide Vital Voices in cultivating and forging new corporate and U.S. Government partnerships that will support and enhance its programmatic and fundraising efforts;

- Provide leadership and strategic direction of Vital Voices online communications; work with the Director of Online Communications to leverage the most current and effective social media tools; collaborate on the Web site full redesign process underway; supervise the management and enhancement of all other online communications initiatives;

- Provide strategic direction and oversight to all staff and the Board of Directors on the Vital Voices brand so that the Vital Voices story is organically infused into every aspect of its communications;

- Cultivate and leverage proactive regional, state and national news media relationships and activities; see that the Vital Voices story is strategically placed in magazines and other media outlets to maximize the organizations exposure;

- Provide leadership and oversight on the writing, editing and translation of Vital Voices work into user friendly formats for the Web site, publications, press materials, PSAs, film and photography and other institutional communications vehicles aimed at internal and external audiences;

- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with leaders at supporting corporations, partner organizations and in the U.S. Government 
Requirements

- A demonstrated and extensive record of leadership in the development and implementation of comprehensive communications programs in a complex, matrixed organization experiencing rapid growth;

- A visionary, creative and inspirational leader fiercely committed to the mission of Vital Voices;

- A solid professional presence, energy, and drive; results-oriented;

- Superb organizational and interpersonal skills combined with the ability to diplomatically prioritize demands from sometimes competing stakeholders;

 -A demonstrated track record of managing the writing, development and professional production of distinguished communications through print, broadcast and electronic media that have achieved organizational objectives;

- Successful and demonstrated experience in using targeted media for advocacy and outreach purposes;

- An effective communicator and listener, who brings a special blend of tact and diplomatic savvy to the position;

- Requires a Bachelors degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Policy, or a related field, or equivalent experience; Masters degree is strongly preferred.

To apply

Send cover letter with salary requirements and resume to [email protected]. No phone calls, please.

JOB OF THE WEEK: Deputy Communications Director, Migration Policy Institute

The Migration Policy Institute (MPI), a nonpartisan, nonprofit think tank dedicated to the study of national and international migration policies, seeks a Deputy Director of Communications to participate in the editing, production, and dissemination of research publications and other written products; write media and marketing materials as well as online and social media content; assist in the development and implementation of media communications/public information strategy; and other communications-related logistical and technical support.

 

The Deputy Director of Communications, who will report to the Director of Communications, should ideally possess the following professional qualifications and personal characteristics:

 

• Minimum of a bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of experience or a master's degree with at least 3 years of experience in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field
• Demonstrated excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to write quickly, concisely, and with meticulous accuracy and attention to detail. (Chicago Manual of Style knowledge a distinct plus)
• Superior copy-editing and substantive editing skills
• Proven ability to be part of a fast-moving, dynamic environment and work effectively under pressure and under tight deadlines on multiple projects
• Superb organizational and interpersonal skills combined with the ability to prioritize demands
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to work collegially in a team environment
• Demonstrated skill in dealing with print and broadcast journalists, editors, bookers, and producers
• Knowledge of migration policy issues and the media world preferred
• Facility for understanding and using social media and new technologies a plus
• Foreign language capability (particularly Spanish) preferred, international experience a plus

 

The successful candidate for this position will:

• Work with the Director of Communications and Communications Team to implement the Institute's strategic communications plan and communicate its message to the media, the policy community, related research and advocacy groups, and legislators.
• Edit and shepherd through the production process the Institute's research materials, including policy briefs, reports, and books.
• Write and edit press releases, media advisories, press kits, talking points, and other materials.
• Assist in shaping and executing media and external constituency outreach; and assist in handling incoming press inquiries.
• Develop and update content for the Web sites and assist in E-communications campaigns.
• Help write and prepare for dissemination electronic newsletters
• Assist with taking photos, and shooting and editing video for the Web sites
• Participate in the use of software, databases, and subscription services to maintain and expand the organization's media and constituent databases.
• Perform research as needed for media outreach and to update media mailing lists.
• Other communications, events, and marketing logistics.

 

Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and salary expectations to [email protected] by July 15, 2010. Please reference "Deputy Director of Communications" in the subject line. We will be reviewing applications as they are sent, so early submissions are strongly encouraged.

 

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits package offered.

 

The Migration Policy Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual or gender orientation, religion or physical ability.

Hoyer’s Leadership Press Secretary Lundberg Joins Burson-Marsteller

Burson-Marsteller announced today that it has hired Stephanie Lundberg as a Manager in its Issues & Crisis Group. Lundberg was most recently Press Secretary for U.S. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD).  Since 2007, Lundberg has served as a primary spokesperson and senior communications advisor for second highest-ranking Member of the U.S. House of Representatives. In this role, she has been a lead member of an aggressive leadership press office that coordinates national media and messaging strategy, and has worked extensively with the Congressional leadership, House Committees and Administration press offices. She also managed all aspects of the Majority Leader’s home-state press and communications within the Washington and Baltimore media markets.  Prior to working for Majority Leader Hoyer, Lundberg was Communications Director for U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-WI), Communications Director for “Steve Kagen for Congress,” Regional Press Director for the Wisconsin Democratic Coordinated Campaign during the 2004 presidential campaign, and as Public Affairs Coordinator for the Wisconsin Federation of Teachers.  Lundberg has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin.  (PF tipster)

Fels Joins Environics

Lisa Fels has joined Environics Communications as an account supervisor. She will work primarily in the agency's tech/telecom and corporate/financial practices. Before joining Environics, Fels was a manager of media relations at Verizon Business. She also worked for The Glover Park Group as a director in the public affairs division. (PF Tipster)

Schmidt to Join Edelman

Steve Schmidt, one of the top public affairs and political strategists in the country, is joining Edelman, the world’s largest independent public relations firm, as Vice Chairman, Public Affairs. While providing counsel on a limited basis effective immediately, he will join in full come December 1st. Schmidt most recently has been a partner at Mercury Public Affairs, where he led the firm’s operations in California.

Named by PR Week as one of the top 25 most powerful leaders in the public relations industry, Schmidt has provided high-level strategic counsel to political candidates, elected officials, and major organizations, including Fortune 500 companies, Hollywood studios and professional sports teams.

Prior to Mercury, he served in positions at the highest levels of politics and government, including Senior Advisor to John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign; Campaign Manager for the 2006 re-election of California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, an effort The Los Angeles Times called "a nearly flawless campaign"; Deputy Assistant to the President and Counsellor to the Vice President in the White House, where he played leading roles on the confirmation teams for the nominations of both Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court; and a member of the senior strategic planning group that directed Former President Bush’s 2004 re-election campaign.

Schmidt will serve as a senior strategic counsellor to Edelman on a global basis. He also will serve as an advisor to Edelman’s $60 million U.S. Public Affairs practice, encompassing a team of 170 professionals serving a broad array of clients including API, Business Roundtable, Monsanto, Oregon Bridge Delivery Partners, and Pfizer. He will report to Matthew Harrington, President and CEO, Edelman U.S., and will be based in Sacramento.

During Schmidt’s tenure in the White House, he advised on a wide range of issues and worked at the intersection of public communications, policy development, legislative advocacy and political strategy. Prior to leading Justice Alito’s confirmation team, Schmidt served in Baghdad, where he worked with U.S. ambassador to Iraq, Zalmay Khalilzad, to perform a month-long assessment of media relations in the war zone.

JOB OF THE WEEK: BGR Public Relations Associate

BGR Public Relations, a fast-growing public relations and marketing firm in D.C., is seeking a first-rate writer and PR specialist. Applicant should have experience in journalism as well as public relations and, if possible, some time on Capitol Hill. The applicant should be able to assimilate information quickly and write a clear, concise news release. In addition, the applicant should be able to pitch stories rapidly and escort clients to interviews with aplomb. BGR, which has major corporate clients, needs an eager, able and poised individual to take the lead on some accounts both large and small. Salary commensurate with experience.

Requirements: B.A. college degree. Experience writing news stories for newspapers. Experience writing news releases. Experience pitching stories and finding who to pitch those stories to using standard databases. Experience escorting clients to interviews and arranging elaborate itineraries. Good interpersonal skills with reporters, clients and colleagues. Must be well versed in U.S. politics and government. Please submit applications (which should include a resume and a cover letter) as soon as possible to [email protected].