Responsibilities

• Strategy development: Set and execute media strategy to advance Vera Institute and Vera Action's priorities
• Strengthen a rapid response operation to activate around newsworthy moments on Vera's issues
• Track daily media coverage and public sentiment on Vera Institute and Vera Action's issues to continuously inform and shape campaign strategies
• Messaging development: Lead the drafting of talking points and messaging framework on Vera's priority issues and campaigns
• Oversee the development and distribution of talking points, press releases, pitches, memos, background briefings, fact sheets and other materials
• Partner with colleagues in Advocacy, Research, and Initiatives to build overall media and communications strategy
• Ensure staff are prepared for media and public appearances via formal media training and informal prep sessions
• Media relations: Cultivate, maintain, and expand relationships with journalists, producers, bloggers, and other influential media figures who regularly cover criminal justice and immigration issues
• Proactively pitch media engagements across print, digital, radio, podcast, TV, and new media
• Draft and place op-eds and LTEs bylined by internal spokespeople and partners

Requirements

• At least 10 years of experience with successful track record of conceiving, developing, and executing innovative and effective strategies for engaging media at the national, regional, and local level for a government office or elected official
• At least 8 years of experience leading advocacy campaigns
• At least 5 years of experience as a supervisor managing at least 3 people
• Strong experience managing crisis communications

Preferred

• Advanced degree a plus. In lieu of degree requirement, applicable work or life experience may be considered.
• Experience should include media, journalism, or public relations work, including significant experience supervising and managing media relations personnel as a director.
• Location: This role will report to our Brooklyn, NY office and hybrid schedule.

Benefits

• merit pay
• generous paid time off
• a comprehensive health insurance plan
• student loan repayment benefits
• professional development training opportunities
• up to $2,000 annual for education costs and fees relevant to Vera work
• employer-funded retirement plan
• flexible time