Director, Media Relations

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute earned media strategies that align with client goals and target top-tier media outlets across print, broadcast, and digital channels.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior reporters, producers, editors, and media influencers.
• Draft compelling press materials, including pitches, press releases, op-eds, and talking points.
• Pitch stories and secure media coverage in premier national, regional, and trade outlets, both traditional and digital.
• Monitor the media landscape and identify opportunities for proactive media engagement or rapid response.
• Collaborate with account leads, digital strategists, and policy specialists to execute integrated communications campaigns.
• Manage junior staff and interns, providing mentorship and quality control.

Requirements

• 5–8 years of experience in media relations, public affairs, communications, or journalism.
• Extensive demonstrated ability to secure placements with top-tier national, regional, and trade media outlets across print and broadcast.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to craft and pitch compelling narratives.
• Deep working relationships with journalists and media professionals across a variety of outlets.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple client priorities simultaneously.
• Prior experience in a communications agency, corporate communications department, media outlet, or advocacy organization preferred.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a collaborative and entrepreneurial spirit.
• A strategic thinker who understands how media engagement fits into broader communications and public affairs goals.

Benefits

• Why Join Rational 360?
• Collaborative, mission-driven team environment
• Exposure to high-impact work across public affairs, communications, and digital
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Hybrid work model with flexibility- this role will be required to adhere to our hybrid work policy which requires employees to work in-person from our HQ located in downtown DC on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
• Salary range for this role is 85,000 to 115,000 USD annually.
• This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship now or in the future.
• Rational 360 is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to building an inclusive workplace.