Potomac Flacks

The Leadership Conference Announces Inouye & Hernandez Join Comms Team

Today, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and The Leadership Conference Education Fund announced the addition of new senior staff members: Shin Inouye, Director of Communications and Media Relations; and Karely Hernandez, Communications Manager.

Shin Inouye is the Director of Communications and Media Relations. As an appointee in the Obama Administration, Inouye served the last two years as Press Secretary and Acting Senior Advisor for Intergovernmental and External Affairs at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Prior to that, he worked for six years as the Director of Specialty Media for the White House Office of Communications, serving as a spokesman for media outlets that serve the AAPI, Faith, LGBT, Native American, Rural, Veterans and college communities, among others. He previously worked on the 2008 Obama for America campaign, and was Communications Director for Congressman Jerrold Nadler, D. N.Y., and a Senior Legislative Communications Associate at the ACLU’s Washington office. He graduated with departmental honors from the Johns Hopkins University.

Karely Hernandez is the Communications Manager. She most recently served on the Hillary for America campaign. There, she worked closely with the Coalitions press team as a national Hispanic media associate for the general campaign and as a Hispanic media spokesperson for the coordinated campaign in North Carolina. Prior to that, she worked for Senator Harry Reid, D. Nev., where she served as Press Secretary for Hispanic media. Born in Los Angeles, California, Hernandez is a graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, with a degree in Global and International Studies. (PF tipster)

JOB OF THE WEEK: NETWORK, Media Coordinator (Application Deadline May 31, 2015)

NETWORK, the national Catholic social justice lobby behind “Nuns on the Bus,” is seeking a Media Coordinator.

We are looking for a creative thinker and implementer, who will be responsible for overseeing organizational communications to the media, including preparing, pitching, and/or placing interviews, articles, press releases, letters to the editor, and other content initiatives. S/he actively seeks out, cultivates, and manages relationships with TV, print, and high-profile online reporters and producers.  The Media Coordinator integrates press and messaging strategies into all organization work, and is passionate about growing, nourishing, and connecting our network of justice-seekers.

About NETWORK
A Catholic leader in the movement for justice and peace, NETWORK educates, organizes and lobbies for economic and social transformation.  Founded in 1971 by Catholic sisters in the progressive spirit of Vatican II, NETWORK works to create a society that promotes justice and the dignity of all in the shared abundance of God’s creation.  Inspired by our founders and the leadership of the women who followed, we faithfully embody Gospel justice as we ignite hope in the world. We are rooted in the Catholic social justice tradition and open to all who share our passion.  Our staff is made up of a variety of faith perspectives. Read more.

Job Responsibilities

• Effectively and strategically places NETWORK messaging in the media, including pitching articles, scheduling interviews, producing press releases/advisories, advising letters to the editor, placing op-eds, and creating and overseeing press events
• Builds strategic relationships with media representatives, including cultivating, nourishing, and evaluating those relationships; effectively utilizes technology (Vocus) as needed
• Manages the flow of news about the organization to the media and advocates on behalf of the NETWORK brand with the media across all communications channels and vehicles
• Provides ideas and advice on the effect the organization's actions and legislative activities have in the media, strategizes about  what actions and campaigns will attract press attention, and integrates press/messaging strategies into NETWORK campaigns and major projects
• Ensures organizational consistency in all aspects of communication; works to ensure NETWORK protects and promotes its image in an effective, coordinated, and consistent manner
• Evaluates – and responds if necessary to – current events and media reports in key districts/states and the nation for their impact on NETWORK and its issues; remains abreast of current legislative and non-legislative issues about which the organization may be questioned
• Provides talking points and tools for justice-seekers to connect with local media
• Creates and utilizes metrics to measure effectiveness externally: utilizes media-tracking assessment tools (Meltwater)
• Conducts media training for Board and staff
• Has a role in other communication channels: social media, website, magazine, and eAdvocacy

Qualifications:

• 4-6 years of progressive professional experience working with traditional media, including 1-2 years working with elected officials, political campaigns, faith-based advocacy, or communications in the nonprofit world; entry-level applicants will not be considered
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or a closely-related field preferred, but not required
• Strong media and political instincts; a sophisticated understanding of the U.S. media and political landscape
• Outstanding communications and interpersonal skills; Spanish fluency desired
• Extensive experience with pitching stories and landing high-profile TV and print appearances
• An excellent persuasive writer, a thorough fact-checker, and a highly-attentive editor
• Experience in a detail-oriented position that required a high-level of organizational skills
• Ability to work under pressure, work independently and on a team, meet deadlines with quick turnaround and manage multiple projects
• Familiarity with Catholic Social Teaching and/or experience with faith-based organizations is helpful, though not necessary. Experience with disadvantaged populations a plus
• Demonstrated skills in collaboration, initiative, analytical thinking, customer service, relationship-building, flexibility, and leadership

Compensation and Benefits
This is a full-time position based in Washington, D.C. and reports to the Managing Director. Starting salary in the mid-upper 40s. Generous benefits package available. 

TO APPLY: Send a résumé and cover letter – as attachments – outlining your qualifications to [email protected]. Please include “Media Coordinator” in the subject line.  You are welcome to include examples of – or links to – relevant past work.

First set of interviews will be taken from applications received by June 1, 2015.

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. (PF tipster)

JOB OF THE WEEK: First Book, Communications Director (Washington, DC)

Do you have a private sector head and a public sector heart?  First Book is looking for a Communications Director to help lead First Book’s marketing and communications efforts, working with multiple departments to develop and execute communications strategies that support outreach to educators and nonprofit networks, corporate partnerships, fundraising campaigns and volunteer outreach. The Communications Director provides day-to-day leadership and guidance for the communications team, working with the Vice President of Communications and First Book’s executive leadership team. 

The Communications Director also helps manage and oversee First Book’s brand and identity, ensuring that copy, print collateral, websites and outbound communications are consistent, effective and appropriately reflect the organization’s growing mission.

A primary duty of the Communications Director is media outreach: developing and executing successful pitch strategies to press, particularly business, publishing and education media outlets.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

The Communications Director will:

• Work closely with the communications staff to create and manage marketing and communications efforts that support First Book’s partnership and program teams
• Develop a successful media outreach strategy and secure regular, high-profile placement in business, general interest and trade press
• Coordinate communications projects with partners and vendors
• Oversee email marketing and social media programs with clear conversion goals
• Provide writing and editing support for outbound member and partner communications, including promotional materials, web content, newsletters and other materials
• Participate in working groups to plan, coordinate and execute original communications products and publications related to special events, programs and other outreach
• Develop content; reviews and edits drafts of correspondence, reports, and brochures for mass distribution; draft communications pieces for distribution to members, prospects, the general public, volunteer support groups, corporate partners and special interest groups
• Track media coverage 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required:

• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, including writing and editing effective, compelling copy for a wide variety of channels and audiences
• Ability to perform quality work under tight deadlines and manage projects independently
• Knowledge of media relations and public relations strategies
• Knowledge of effective branding and marketing strategies
• Experience with the strategic integration of social media in communications plans
• Demonstrated ability to hire, mentor and motivate staff
• Ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues on various teams, across different levels of seniority
• A strong working knowledge of graphic design, web design, email marketing and social media
• A commitment to social justice

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE: 

• Seven or more years of experience in communications and marketing
• Three or more years in a supervisory role
• Various technical skills are strongly preferred: online content management, basic web coding, graphic design and layout, and desktop publishing  

A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, communications, or a related field is required

TO APPLY: Click here.  (PF tipster)

JOB OF THE WEEK: Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), Deputy Director of Communications (Washington, DC)

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) seeks to hire a Deputy Director of Communications to provide strategic support and assist in day-to-day press operations.

S/he will help generate earned media and position FDD experts as thought leaders; evaluate content for our daily Hotsheet; prepare FDD officials for interviews; respond to incoming media requests; compose press releases and advisories; develop and maintain media lists; track press coverage; and lead projects as needed. S/he will also work closely with the executive team, senior fellows, and government relations department.

Qualifications include a minimum of 3-5 years of experience working in a political or policy-oriented communications capacity; an understanding of how print, broadcast and online media approach reporting; a track record of success in pitching print and broadcast media; excellent communication skills; strong analytical and organizational skills; and a strong interest in FDD’s areas of expertise. Detail oriented professionals with a commitment to accountability and a desire to work collaboratively will be successful in this role.

FDD is a non-profit, non-partisan 501(c)3 policy institute focusing on foreign policy and national security. Founded in 2001, FDD combines policy research, democracy and counterterrorism education, strategic communications and investigative journalism in support of its mission to promote pluralism, defend democratic values and fight the ideologies that drive terrorism.

TO APPLY: Interested applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter and résumé to [email protected]. The cover letter should include what issues within FDD’s areas of expertise are of a personal interest. No phone calls, please. Salary commensurate with experience.  (PF tipster)

Heritage’s Izzy Ortega Named Communications Director at NSCW

Izzy Ortega, formerly of The Heritage Foundation, joins National School Choice Week (NCSW) as Director of Communications where he will oversee all media and public relations activities.

NSCW shines a positive spotlight on effective education options for all children, organizing a week-long celebration every January. NSCW 2014 featured 5,500+ events, bringing together unlikely bedfellow across the political spectrum like U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX).

Ortega is a graduate of Hamilton College and a native of New York, NY.  (PF tipster)

JOB OF THE WEEK: Human Rights Campaign, Communications Director

Position Summary: The Communications Director is a regular, full-time position which reports directly to the Vice President for Communications and Marketing and is based in Washington, DC.  The Communications Director’s workload is focused on ensuring HRC’s messages are placed in the national print and electronic media and managing a team of communication professionals.  The Communications Director will work with the VP to craft media strategy and proactively pitch stories, develop salient, appropriate and creative messages, implement long and short-term communications strategies, and place editorials and op-eds.  Skills for responding to breaking news and ensuring placement are crucial. 

Position Responsibilities: The Communications Director will work with the VP to create and implement the strategic direction and vision of the department.  This position will also manage and direct the work of the staff that will assist in implementing these communications strategies.  In direct consultation with the VP and executive management the Communications Director will provide communications and media expertise to program areas throughout HRC.

Specific duties of the position are as follows:

Communications Strategy: Create and understand a holistic organization communication strategy that relies on earned media but also incorporates paid media, membership communication and online/social media.

Research and message development: Guide quantitative and qualitative message research that benefits the organization or particular issue area and develop messages and taking points based on that research.  The Director will ensure that HRC materials across program areas and departments reflect organizational positions and are framed persuasively.

Effective media relations: Develop media relations strategies around issues and HRC programs and develop tactics to effectively and successfully pitch the placement of stories.  In addition, develop strategies to ensure HRC’s placement in breaking news stories.  Strong and demonstrated relationship-building skills and established relationships with Washington press corps are required.  Additionally, a thorough understanding of and contacts within LGBT new media are important.

Place editorials and op-eds: Develop plans to draft and place op-eds and pitch editorial on a variety of issues important to the LGBT community.  Strong and proven writing skills and the ability to seize upon timely events is crucial.

Place spokespeople on radio and television: Build and maintain relationships with key producers and reporters on network and cable television and radio programs to ensure placement of HRC spokespeople.  Strong ability to articulate salient messages and an understanding of effective strategies for electronic media placement are crucial.

Media Relations Tactics: A strong ability to develop and implement media relations strategies, such as press conferences, is vital.  

Spokesperson: A strong and demonstrated ability to act as an on-the-record and background source is necessary.

Outstanding writing skills: Candidate must have excellent writing skills, including the ability to write speeches, opinion pieces, press releases and other materials, and be able to work in a fast-paced environment under tight deadlines.

Team and resource management: As the primary supervisor for junior and mid-level communications staff, the Director must be able to mentor and guide other staff while being able to help staff deliver their full potential.  The Director will also work with the VP on planning and administering the department’s budget. 

Position Qualifications:

·         Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s Degree preferred with at least ten or more years of cumulative work experience most in positions of increasing responsibility in communications and media relations.  Management experience is required.

·         Candidates must have a demonstrated record of proactively and successfully placing print and electronic stories, op-eds and ensuring that the organization’s message is placed in reactive stories. 

·         Candidates must be highly organized and detail-oriented, a self-starter and results-oriented, be able to work collaboratively, and handle multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. 

·         Candidates must be experienced managers capable of effectively providing guidance, coaching, and critical feedback to staff both verbally and through written materials including performance reviews. 

·         Candidates must also have excellent speaking and writing skills, computer and Internet proficiency, and strong verbal communication skills. 

·         Background or experience with LGBT rights and issues is important.

·         The successful candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to HRC and to advancing HRC’s goals and objectives.

TO APPLY: Visit here or visit HRC’s careers page.  (PF tipster)

JOB OF THE WEEK: Families Against Mandatory Minimums, Communications Director

Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM), a national nonprofit sentencing reform organization on the verge of a major success, seeks a dynamic, creative, strategic, hard-working Communications Director to push us over the top!

The ideal candidate has experience working on a policy campaign and coordinating communication across media, grassroots and/or grasstops advocacy, and legislative lobbying efforts. Requirements include: excellent writing skills, an ability to quickly crank out op-eds and press releases, social media proficiency, persistence and fearlessness in promoting staff experts to print and broadcast media, a killer media rolodex across the political spectrum, comfort working with the political left and right, and enthusiasm for team work.  Capitol Hill experience and background in criminal justice a plus; agreement with FAMM’s mission a must.

FAMM opposes mandatory sentencing laws that prevent the punishment from fitting the crime and the individual's role in it. We support fair and proportionate justice; the right to be judged as an individual; and a reverence for liberty that abhors depriving someone of his most basic freedoms any longer than necessary to protect the rights and safety of others.

TO APPLY: Please send a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to [email protected]. No calls, please.  (PF tipster)

JOB OF THE WEEK: Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, Managing Editor for Broadcast and Media Development

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) seeks to hire a highly motivated, energetic and entrepreneurial Managing Editor for Broadcast and Media Development to raise the institution's profile on television and radio, develop relationships with regional media and identify external partners. S/he will identify unique angles and opportunities to position executive staff, experts and fellows as thought leaders; be tasked with forming strong relationships with bookers/producers as well as FDD leadership and staff to create fresh opportunities to present unique perspectives; and take pride in their accountability.

Qualifications include:

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in political, policy, association or nonprofit booking with major electronic media or as a booker/producer for the same
• Superb attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work on tight deadlines and with the news cycle as required
• Demonstrated discretion with proprietary and/or sensitive information
• High-level critical thinking skills, sound judgment and calm under pressure 

S/he will have a commitment to working within a flat communications structure and a strong interest in FDD's areas of expertise.

 

FDD is a nonprofit and nonpartisan national security and foreign policy institute devoted to independent research in the defense of free nations against their enemies. Founded in the wake of the September 11 terrorist attacks on the United States, FDD uniquely combines policy research, counterterrorism and democracy education, strategic communications, and investigative journalism to pursue the goal of a more secure future for America and her allies.

TO APPLY: Interested applicants are encouraged submit a cover letter and CV to [email protected]. No phone calls, please. Salary commensurate with experience.  See more at: http://defenddemocracy.org/about-fdd/jobs-internships/#sthash.pkWmrodA.dpuf  (PF tipster)

EXCLUSIVE: Qorvis’ Reid Moving to NYC for IAVA

After three years on international flights advising clients in the Middle East, Europe and Asia, Qorvis Communications Partner John Reid is heading from DC to New York City to become Chief Communications Officer for The Iraq Afghanistan Veterans Association (IAVA).

The not-for-profit advocacy group focused on the newest generation of veterans is rapidly expanding its national outreach and membership. Reid, 43, is former communications director for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and then-U.S. Senator George Allen (R-VA) and as VP at the infancy of Potomac Strategy Group, LLC with founder Matt Mackowiak.

Reid is known to many from his time as President of the Senate Press Secretaries Association and previously spent 10 years as a Richmond, VA television news anchor. Recently he’s volunteered as an advisor to groups seeking GOP Congressional votes for the passage of ENDA legislation.

Reid starts work in New York next week.

He s a graduate of Baylor University and a native of Richmond.  (PF tipster)

JOB OF THE WEEK: National School Choice Week, Press Secretary (Temporary, Miramar Beach, FL or telecommute)

National School Choice Week is searching for a talented Press Secretary. This is a non-exempt, hourly position (approximately 40 hours per week) with a defined start date (September 1, 2013) and end date (February 28, 2014).

The Press Secretary will be responsible for working with NSCW’s team, partner organizations, and participating schools to generate positive media coverage for special events held during National School Choice Week 2014 (January 26 to February 1, 2014).

Under the direction of NSCW’s president, the Press Secretary will be responsible for writing and sending news releases; developing and placing opinion pieces; managing and maintaining media lists; using media management software, e-mail outreach systems, and fax broadcast programs to provide reporters and producers with information; scheduling interviews for NSCW spokespeople; making pre-event pitch telephone calls; and managing media interview calendars. 

Qualifications:

-- Bachelor’s degree in journalism or related discipline

-- 2+ years of experience in front-line media relations

-- Excellent writer with ability to pass writing and editing test

-- Superior proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite products, including Word and Excel

-- Excellent interpersonal skills and comfort with making telephone calls

-- Ability to work independently and with great accuracy

-- Previous experience working on a high-energy campaign environment

-- Basic knowledge of and support for education reform and school choice policy

TO APPLY: Send a resume, your requested hourly rate of pay, and one writing sample (news release) to Andrew Campanella at [email protected] with the subject line: Press Secretary. Incomplete applications will not be considered. No phone calls, please.

Note: This position is located in Miramar Beach, Florida, if the incumbent chooses to relocate. However, we are willing to accommodate requests to telecommute/work from remote locations across the country.  (PF tipster)