Director of External Communications

USA (Hybrid)

$120K/yr – $150K/yrDirector/Executive8+ years expFull time

Posted 2 weeks ago

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Job Summary

Own external communications and media relations for a trade association translating policy and crisis intel into clear public messaging across press, website, and social channels.

Own external messaging framework and media outreach; act as primary spokesperson and crisis-ready communications with journalists across trade, business, and mainstream outlets.
Coordinate with Government Affairs to convert complex bills into accessible briefs and rapid-response content.
Lead brand-aligned external presence and KPI tracking with data-driven monitoring of coverage and sentiment.

Job Description

Responsibilities

Craft strategic design and execution of all public-facing messaging, including industry narrative, in alignment with the association’s strategic plan
Develop comprehensive external communications plans that elevate brand visibility and support overall organizational goals
Ensure consistent framing of core messages across all public-facing platforms, including websites and social media platforms
Develop and execute proactive media and PR plans to advance the association’s communication goals
Act as the primary spokesperson and media liaison; field incoming press inquiries and coordinate interviews for association executives
Draft press releases, op-eds, talking points, and media briefing materials
Cultivate and maintain relationships with key journalists across trade, business, and mainstream media outlets
Develop and execute reactive crisis communication plans to mitigate reputational risks and address public relations challenges
Collaborate with the association’s Government Affairs team to translate complex legislative bills and regulatory issues into accessible, persuasive content (e.g., fact sheets, policy briefs, and one-pagers)
Monitor the news cycle and legislative developments to identify rapid-response opportunities and mitigate potential reputational risks

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or a related field
Progressive experience of 8+ years must include trade association and/or government work involving public relations, media relations, or public affairs
Experience managing external PR agencies, consultants, or small internal teams

Preferred

Strong political judgment, crisis management, and rapid-response abilities
Demonstrated success in managing external PR agencies, consultants, or small internal teams
Strong existing network of media contacts and a deep understanding of evolving digital, print, and broadcast media landscapes
Strong presentation and oral communication skills; must be confident public speaker

Benefits

401(k) match
PTO
medical
dental
life insurance
commuter benefits & wellness reimbursement

American Coatings Association

ACA is a voluntary, nonprofit organization working to advance the needs of the paint and coatings industry and the professionals who work in it. Through advocacy of the industry and its positions on legislative, regulatory, and judicial issues at the federal, state and local levels, it acts as an effective ally ensuring that the industry is represented and fairly considered. The association also devotes itself to advancing industry efforts with regard to product stewardship, through its signature Coating Care® resources, and focuses on advancements in science and technology through its technical conferences and journals, as well as online training opportunities. In addition, ACA offers essential business information to members through its publications, surveys, and business programs.

Washington, District of Columbia, USA

54 employees (10 in marketing)

www.paint.org