Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a comprehensive media and public relations strategy that advances ADF’s mission, strengthens its brand, and supports legal advocacy objectives.
• Translate complex legal concepts into compelling, accessible messaging for diverse audiences, ensuring consistent alignment across earned, owned, and paid media platforms.
• Oversee cross-channel communications and message development for internal, external, and alliance audiences, while positioning ADF and its leaders as influential voices in national conversations on freedom and advocacy.
• Build and maintain high-impact relationships with top-tier media, journalists, influencers, and opinion leaders to maximize visibility and coverage.
• Lead ADF’s rapid response efforts by identifying and acting quickly on breaking news, cultural moments, and emerging trends.
• Oversee the creation of proactive media strategies and events to amplify ADF’s profile, showcase cases, and shape public conversations.
• Foster surrogate commentary and third-party advocacy by cultivating a strong network of aligned voices to amplify ADF messaging.
• Serve as the organization’s first line of defense during crises, leading swift, strategic communications responses that protect ADF’s reputation.
• Anticipate potential risks, develop crisis playbooks, and train staff and leadership on effective public response.
• Coordinate with legal teams to ensure all external communications are accurate, compliant, and aligned with legal and ethical standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in media relations, public affairs, or strategic communications.
• 3+ years of experience leading a communications or media team.
• Demonstrated success designing and executing impactful media and PR strategies that shape public opinion and advance organizational objectives.
• Exceptional ability to distill complex legal and policy issues into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Proven track record of building strong relationships with national and international media outlets and securing high-impact coverage.
• Experienced in defining KPIs, analyzing performance data, and adapting strategies to maximize impact.
• Deep understanding of emerging media platforms, content optimization, and audience engagement strategies.

Benefits

• This salary range is reflective of a position based in Washington, D.C. This range is a good faith estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the candidate’s experience, skills, qualifications, and office location.
• Our benefits include 100% covered medical and dental insurance, medical and dependent care reimbursement, paid disability, long-term care, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match. We prioritize work-life balance with paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year.