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October 31, 2011

JOB(S) OF THE WEEK: Levick Strategic Communications is Hiring - 7 Communications Openings

LevickLevick Strategic Communications, an award-winning communications firm in Washington D.C., is looking to hire for several positions.

1)     Senior Vice President/Vice President, Business Development – Levick Strategic Communications is seeking an experienced federal government business development professional, with a proven track record securing and servicing federal contracts.

As a senior team member, the SVP/VP will be responsible for autonomous business development activities, including building relationships with federal departments and agencies; identifying, developing, and implementing strategic approaches to government business development; and managing capture and proposal development activities. This position will work closely with the head of the Government and Nonprofit Practice, advising and working closely with the practice head in all business development activities, as well as developing and pursuing his or her own relationships, leads, and procurement opportunities.  In addition, this position will manage client relationships and client work.

The successful candidate must have a proven track record of federal contracting business development, be knowledgeable about federal procurement, and demonstrate superior writing skills. Needs at least 8 years relevant experience and 12 years’ work experience to apply. Compensation is commensurate with experience.

Specifically, this position in the Government and Nonprofit Practice is asked to: 

  • Develop and implement federal government marketing strategies, both independently and in close collaboration with the practice head;
  • Manage procurement capture, review, and “go/no-go” decisions;
  • Manage proposal development, working closely with direct team members as well as colleagues across other practice areas;
  • Work closely with colleagues across practice areas to plan, manage, and assist in the execution of projects that include communications tactics such as: social media outreach, website development, search engine marketing, video production, media outreach, community outreach, and public affairs;
  • Oversee and review the work of colleagues in the Government and Nonprofit practice to ensure it adheres to firm standards for quality and strategic impact;
  • Interact with and help manage relationships with current and prospective clients;
  • Work with colleagues across practice areas at Levick to manage current client services and to develop new business opportunities.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected] with job title in the email subject line.

2)    Account Supervisor – Can you run a successful campaign and also manage day-to-day details of a client account? Do you like taking charge, but still like working with a team? If so, you are invited to submit your resume to Levick Strategic Communications. We have immediate openings for Account Supervisors in our Washington, D.C. headquarters.  Candidates must have at least six years of experience in corporate communications, crisis, reputation management, internal communications, and/or public affairs programs. Public relations agency experience required. Successful candidates will thrive under pressure and understand client needs and demands. Excellent media relations and writing skills are a must, as is a need for attention to detail. Extremely competitive salary, bonus incentives and benefits package are available.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected] with job title in the email subject line.

3)    Director – Can you drive successful strategic communications campaigns and also manage day-to-day details of a client account? Do you like taking charge, but still like working with a team? If so, you are invited to submit your resume to Levick Strategic Communications. We have immediate openings for Directors in our Washington, D.C. headquarters.  Candidates must have at least eight years of experience in corporate communications, crisis, reputation management, internal communications, and/or public affairs programs in a private sector or government setting. Public relations agency experience required.  Successful candidates will thrive under pressure and understand – and meet – client needs and demands. The ability to develop new business is a plus. Excellent media relations and writing skills are a must, as is a need for attention to detail. Extremely competitive salary, bonus incentives and benefits package are available.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected] with job title in the email subject line.

4)    Senior Account Executive – Are you a public relations professional who likes a fast pace and keeping pace with current events? Are you interested in working in a wide range of industries from politics and pharmaceuticals to finance and food? Can you summarize complicated information into a concise and compelling story? If so, you are invited to submit your resume to Levick Strategic Communications. We have immediate openings for Senior Account Executives in our Washington, D.C. headquarters.  Candidates must have at least three years of experience in corporate communications, crisis, reputation management, internal communications, and/or public affairs programs. Public relations agency experience strongly preferred. Successful candidates will be able to see – and sell – a story in the traditional and digital media. Excellent writing skills are a must, as is a need for attention to detail. Extremely competitive salary, bonus incentives and benefits package are available.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected] with job title in the email subject line. 

5)    Staff Writer – Levick Strategic Communications seeks a staff writer to fill a variety of writing and editing assignments for internal and external clients. Primary duties include blog posts, op/eds, and feature articles that reflect the bylined author’s personal style and expertise. The ideal candidate possesses acute research, analytical, and interviewing skills, as well as the ability to produce content on a broad range of issues. The candidate must be able to meet multiple deadlines.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; excellent writing skills; significant experience writing for managers and professionals; and an ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.  Extremely competitive salary, bonus incentives and benefits package are available.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected] with job title in the email subject line.

6)     Social & Digital Media Senior Account Executive – Can you run a successful campaign and also manage day-to-day details of a client account? Do you like taking charge, but still like working with a team? If so, you are invited to submit your resume to Levick Strategic Communications. We have immediate openings for a Senior Account Executive for social and digital media in our Washington, D.C., headquarters.  Candidates must have at least three years of experience and will have demonstrated work experience in online reputation management, blogosphere monitoring and outreach, social media content marketing and social network engagement. Applicants should be social and digital media enthusiasts, always looking for innovative ways to utilize the latest trends and platforms. Team members will report directly to the Social & Digital Media Practice Chair and assist in promoting clients as well as the Firm, via innovative social networking outreach, blogosphere engagement, and digital marketing initiatives.  Successful candidates will add an important creative component to our communications team, have exceptional writing skills, and will be actively involved in the execution, expansion, and optimization of digital campaigns for the countries, companies, brands and high profile individuals we represent.  Extremely competitive salary, bonus incentives and benefits package are available.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected] with job title in the email subject line.

7)      Videographer / Editor – Do you enjoy producing compelling online video content to engage audiences, educate the public, and encourage action? Are you a “one man” production studio – able to plan, film, edit, animate, title, and produce individual or series of videos? If so, you are invited to submit your resume to Levick Strategic Communications. We have an immediate opening for a multi-talented Videographer and Editor in our Washington, D.C., headquarters.  Candidates will have past experience across a wide range of production and post-production tasks as well as a diverse portfolio that illustrates keen understanding of storytelling, advocacy, and production values. As a member of the team, candidates will be involved in the planning and execution of videos and video series for the countries, companies, brands and high profile individuals we represent.

Specifically, skills should include:

-       Expert proficiency with Apple’s Final Cut Pro Suite, including Final Cut, Motion, Soundtrack Pro, and Color.

-       Knowledge of best practices for the quality, duration, and other attributes of successful Web video.

-       Experience interviewing subjects in both highly prepared and candid scenarios.

-       History planning, scripting, and coordinating other key components of a successful video production.

The team members will report directly to the Social & Digital Media Practice Chair and assist in promoting clients as well as the Firm via innovative online video projects.  Extremely competitive salary, bonus incentives and benefits package are available.

TO APPLY: Please send cover letter and resume to [email protected] with job title in the email subject line.  (PF tipster)

Whitestone Named Director of Communications for the Americas for the Carlyle Group

Randall WhitestoneFirst reported in Politico’s “Playbook,” global asset manager The Carlyle Group has named Randall Whitestone as Principal and Director of Communications for the Americas.

Whitestone has more than 25 years of experience in corporate communications and financial journalism and comes to Carlyle from Neuberger Berman where he served as Global Head of Corporate Communications.  He began his duties last week and is based in New York.

Carlyle Group logoWhitestone is a graduate of the University of Rochester and earned his MBA from The Wharton School.  (Politico’s “Playbook”)

October 28, 2011

EXCLUSIVE: PF Contributor Rethmeier Named SVP of Public Affairs and Government Relations at US Travel Association

UstravelThe U.S. Travel Association announced today that Blain Rethmeier (@BlainR) has been named Senior Vice President for Public Affairs and Government Relations for the organization. He will lead lobbying, communications, grassroots and research activities for U.S. Travel, which represents the $1.8 trillion travel industry. Rethmeier joins U.S. Travel from the American Insurance Association (AIA), where he was Senior Vice President for Public Affairs. He succeeds Geoff Freeman, who was recently promoted to executive vice president and chief operating officer of U.S. Travel.

U.S. Travel continues to build momentum for industry initiatives. In 2010, President Obama signed the Travel Promotion Act, which created the Corporation for Travel Promotion, the nation’s first-ever national travel promotion and communications program. This year, U.S. Travel launched a coalition to advocate for U.S. visa reform, leading to legislation currently before the House and Senate. And this month the Transportation Security Administration launched PreCheck, a trusted traveler program that mirrors many recommendations by a U.S. Travel blue-ribbon panel.

Rethmeier joined AIA in May 2007 from the White House, where he served as Special Assistant to the President for Communications and directed all aspects of public affairs for President Bush’s National Economic Council and Homeland Security Council.

Before joining the White House, Rethmeier served as Press Secretary for the Senate Judiciary Committee, where he helped manage the Supreme Court confirmation hearings of Chief Justice John Roberts and Associate Justice Samuel Alito.

Rethmeier also has experience at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he served as a Senior Public Affairs Specialist. He was also Communications Director for the House Government Reform Committee and served as Press Secretary to Rep. Scott McInnis (R-CO). Rethmeier began his career in Washington working for Rep. Mary Bono (R-CA).

Rethmeier is a native of Colorado. (PF tipster)

 

October 27, 2011

Longtime Flack Ford Named Vice President at LRG Public Affairs

LRG Public AffairsRandy Ford, a veteran of Capitol Hill, has joined LRG Public Affairs as Vice President.

Most recently Ford had served as a strategic communications consultant.  He had served for more than a decade on Capitol Hill, as Press Secretary, Communications Director and then Chief of Staff to then-Rep. John Tanner (D-TN), a founder of the Blue Dog Coalition.

Previously Ford served as Communications Manager for the Distilled Spirits Council and as a radio journalist in Tennessee.

Ford is a native of Clinton, TN and a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University.

October 25, 2011

David Di Martino Joins Blue Engine Message & Media as Partner

Blue engineBlue Engine Message & Media, a leading strategic communications and issue advocacy firm in Washington, D.C., announced today that David Di Martino has joined the firm as partner and will merge his firm DD Media with Blue Engine.

“David has earned a strong reputation as a skilled communicator and trusted advisor to leaders in the government, the private sector and on campaigns,” said Erik Smith, founder of Blue Engine Message & Media. “His experience leading complex communications campaigns in the public affairs sector and private sectors will be invaluable to our firm and our clients. We are thrilled to welcome him and his clients to Blue Engine.”

”We’re proud that Blue Engine has always provided a uniquely strong offering to clients and David’s track record as a trusted media advisor with tremendous media relationships fits our business model perfectly,” said Blue Engine partner Kathy Roeder. “He shares our philosophy that a hands-on approach by senior counselors with deep experience and strong expertise is the best way to serve our diverse client base.”

Di Martino founded DD Media in 2011 after more than 15 years of public and private sector experience in senior communications positions. His firm leads strategic public affairs campaigns for corporations, non-profit groups, senior executives, and coalitions. He has experience communicating on a broad range of issues, from public health, energy and clean tech to high tech, national security and international trade policy

David-Di-Martino-1Di Martino has served in communications leadership roles in the U.S. Senate for Senators Ben Nelson, John Kerry, and Maria Cantwell and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. In 2008, blue-chip public affairs firm Barbour Griffith and Rogers brought on David as a senior strategist for BGR Public Relations, a strategic hire to build its bipartisan credentials. David was a co-founder and partner of Blue Line Strategic Communications, Inc. David is one of National Journal’s 100 “Political Insiders,” and is a frequent contributor and commentator in public affairs media.

“Erik and Kathy have built Blue Engine into a strong and respected firm, pulled together a talented team, and earned an impeccable reputation. I’m pleased to join them and to work with them to continue providing high quality strategic communications services to our clients,” Di Martino said.
Blue Engine Message & Media has one of the most seasoned teams of communications professionals in Washington, led by Smith, Roeder, Laura Burton Capps, Allison Clear Fastow, Patricia Pincus Cole, Stephen Carter and Clarissa Unger.

Blue Engine Message & Media provides innovative strategic communications solutions to the complex challenges facing corporations, non-profits and advocacy groups. Blue Engine’s approach combines the best practices of long term corporate planning with short term political rapid response techniques to design and manage effective communication campaigns. For more information, visit www.blueenginemedia.com.

October 24, 2011

Winning Second Term, Gov. Jindal Announces Sellers Departure, Plotkin’s Promotion

Monday Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-LA) announced a number of staff changes after winning reelection to a second term as Governor. 

Gov. Jindal & SellersIn addition to announcing the departure of his Chief of Staff, Jindal Communications Director Melissa Sellers is departing the office December 1 to attend the Dallas Theological Seminary.  Sellers is a 2003 graduate of the University of Texas with a major in journalism.

Sellers is being replaced by Kyle Plotkin (@kjplotkin), who is being promoted from Press Secretary, where he has been serving since Nov. 2008.  Plotkin previously served as Deputy Communications Director for the John Kennedy for U.S. Senate campaign in Louisiana, as a policy analyst for the 2008 Mitt Romney presidential campaign and as a research assistant at Public Opinion Strategies.  He is a 2004 graduate of the University of Miami and earned a Master’s from the George Washington University in 2006. (PF tipster)

EXCLUSIVE: Special Discounted PF Rate for MediaMatch Event Tuesday Night

OnPointStrategies_logoPotomac Flacks is proud to have secured a last minute, discount rate for our readers.

MediaMatch is an intimate event featuring top bookers, producers, editors and reporters. You’ll hear from these insiders just what kinds of pitches get their attention…and why so many others leave them cold.

Then you’ll get one-on-one time with whichever media pros you think are most likely to be interested in your pitch. These journalists are also looking for new sources and fresh voices.

This is a great - and very unique - opportunity to build stronger relationships with senior members of the local and national media.

We'll have syndicated columnist Bob Franken, Real Clear Politics' Carl Cannon, the Hotline's Reid Wilson, SiriusXM's Tim Farley from POTUS, Atlantic Online's Garance Franke-Ruta, C&E's Shane D'Aprile, a freelance booker for 60 Minutes, Good Morning America and other broadcast shows, and a host of local print and broadcast media. These connections should prove invaluable in the short and long term. 

What: MediaMatch—One on One with Top Bookers, Hosts, Producers and Editors
When: 7 pm to 9 pm on Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2011
Where: Mary Graydon Center, American University (room information will be provided with your registration packet)
Cost: $75 (promo code "PF" gets you this discount from the regular $175 registration fee)

You should attend MediaMatch if you are an expert in your field, or have a compelling story worthy of media exposure.

Media participants include national and local producers, bookers, editors and reporters. We've just added:

  • Senior Booker for ABC's Good Morning America
  • An Emmy-winning booker for 60 Minutes and others
  • A regular Southern Living contributor
  • Bob Franken, syndicated columnist
  • CBS's executive producer for local content

They'll be joining a great line-up, including:

  • Sirius/XM's POTUS
  • ABC7's Let's Talk Live, Arch Campbell Show and 9:30 newscast
  • CBS
  • 94.7 FreshFM
  • Real Clear Politics
  • Hotline
  • Campaigns & Elections magazine
  • Capitol File
  • Washingtonian
  • EnergyNOW! television program

For more info, visit http://www.onpoint-strategies.com/mediamatch.htm or email [email protected].

Register: http://mediamatch.eventbrite.com/  (Brought to you by PF)

October 23, 2011

JOB OF THE WEEK: National Rifle Association, Media Liaison (Fairfax, VA)

NRA Headquarters signThe National Rifle Association (NRA) seeks to hire a Media Liaison at its Fairfax, VA headquarters. 

This position requires very strong writing skills. The successful candidate's primary area of responsibility will be developing quality public affairs related documents with high frequency.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1) Very strong writing skills.

2) Ability to produce press releases, op-eds, and letters to the editor on tight deadlines.

3) Develop pro-active and reactive public affairs related documents that will create support for NRA's position on legislative, political, crime and safety issues consistent with the NRA mission.

4) Create rapid response crisis management documents for delivery to newsmakers.

5) Coordinate and conduct pro-active and reactive media interviews

6) Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

College degree required. Strong writing skills essential. Knowledge of public relations and technical and general aspects of broadcast and print journalism and of local/federal politics helpful.  Knowledge of and support for the NRA's positions in defense of the Second Amendment are essential.

TO APPLY: Submit your resume with cover letter (required) to [email protected] or via fax to (703) 267.3938. The NRA is proud to offer an extensive array of benefits and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (PF tipster)

October 16, 2011

JOB OF THE WEEK: US-China Business Council, Publications Editor / Website Manager

USCBC logoThe US-China Business Council (USCBC) is seeking an experienced Publications Editor and Website Manager for a full-time position, available immediately.

USCBC is a private, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization of roughly 240 American companies that do business with China. Founded in 1973, USCBC has provided unmatched information, advisory, advocacy, and program services to its membership for nearly four decades. Through its offices in Washington, DC; Beijing; and Shanghai, USCBC is uniquely positioned to serve its members' interests in the United States and China.

Primary Responsibilities:

·         Maintaining and overseeing USCBC's two main websites, www.uschina.org and www.chinabusinessreview.com

·         Working with USCBC's outside webhost, programmer and design vendor as well as USCBC staff to update USCBC's websites

·         Maintaining, maximizing and adapting USCBC content for websites, social media networks, syndication partners, and blogs

·         Assist with the writing and editing of China Market Intelligence, USCBC's biweekly e-newsletter

·         Writing, fact-checking, copyediting, and proofreading articles, data spreads, and columns for the China Business Review (CBRwww.chinabusinessreview.com), the magazine of the USCBC

·         Conducting research on topics of concern to U.S. businesses in China as needed

Qualifications:

·         Excellent command of English grammar and spelling; editing experience preferred

·         Experience maintaining websites, working with outside vendors, and social media platforms

·         Relevant experience working with digital publication and communication platforms

·         Proven writing and editing skills

·         Understanding of SEO and CMS

·         Ability to communicate clear, detailed instructions orally and in writing

·         Good online research skills and excellent attention to detail

·         Relevant exposure to and interest in, economics, statistics, global trade, business, and US-China relations and commercial activities

·         Ability to work independently

·         Energy and enthusiasm for communications, business, media, and publications

·         Bachelor's degree required

·         2-3 years of experience

·         Reading and speaking knowledge of Mandarin a plus

·         US permanent work authorization (US citizen or lawful permanent resident)

TO APPLY: Send resume, cover letter, salary expectations, and a brief writing sample by email to [email protected] with the subject line "Publications Editor and Website Manager”.  No phone calls, please. (PF tipster)

October 14, 2011

EXCLUSIVE: Bachmann’s Congressional Spokesman Sachtleben Departs

Doug SachtlebenDoug Sachtleben, Communications Director for Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-MN), announced late Friday that he was departing her office to serve in the same role for Rep. John Fleming (R-LA).

Sachtleben said Press Secretary Becky Rogness was remaining in the office, implying that she would handle media inquiries.

According to his LinkedIn profile, Sachtleben was also serving (part time) as Deputy Press Secretary on her presidential campaign since July 2011. 

Sachtleben said, “ I leave Rep. Bachmann’s office with nothing but the highest regard for Michele. It has been a pleasure working for her and I continue to admire and appreciate her unwavering conservatism.”

Sachtleben formerly worked as a communications aide at the House Republican Conference and as a correspondent at SRN News.

He’s a native of Clifton, NJ and a graduate of Temple University.  (PF reporting)

About the Authors

  • FOLLOW US: @potomacflacks
  • Matt Mackowiak - Site Manager
    Matt Mackowiak is a Washington, D.C. and Austin,TX-based Republican strategist and communications consultant and President of Potomac Strategy Group, LLC. In his career he has managed a winning Congressional campaign and worked in the U.S. Senate, at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, at a leading international PR firm, on a presidential campaign in Iowa and in White House presidential advance. Follow him on Twitter - @MattMackowiak

    Laura Gross - Contributor
    Laura Gross is currently president of Scott Circle Communications. She has served as deputy director of communications at the DNC, was Gov. Howard Dean's Communications Director and she worked in the press office at USAID during the Clinton administration. Her experience also includes time in the PR department of National Public Radio and she was part of Vice President Gore's advance team when he was in The White House.
    Follow her on Twitter: @ScottCircle

    Blain K. Rethmeier - Contributor
    Blain K. Rethmeier is currently the Senior Vice President for Public Affairs for the American Insurance Association (AIA). Rethmeier joined AIA from the White House where he served as Special Assistant to the President for Communications and directed communications for the National Economic Council and Homeland Security Council. Prior to joining the White House, Rethmeier served as Press Secretary for the Senate Judiciary Committee.
    Follow him on Twitter: @BlainR

    This is a personal group blog whose contents in no way reflect the views of any author's employer.

    Got a tip? Email Matt, Blain or Laura (anonymity guaranteed)

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