Director of Media Relations at Washington National Cathedral | District of Columbia, USA

Washington National Cathedral

Director of Media Relations

District of Columbia, USA (Hybrid)

Salary Not AvailableDirector/Executive5+ years expFull time

Posted 4 months ago

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Job Summary

Lead Cathedral communications as the principal writer and media-relations driver, shaping content and rapid responses across platforms.

Own media engagement and editorial planning for Cathedral communications.
Must-have: 5+ years in media relations/writing across multiple voices.
Standout: Proactive national moments writing and crisis response capability.

Job Description

Responsibilities

Lead the Cathedral’s media engagement and play a central part in shaping written content that supports institutional priorities.
Provide writing and editorial support for a wide range of platforms, including Cathedral Age, Cathedral Connects Blog, Crossroads Podcast, statements, remarks, and national moments requiring timely reflection.
Serve as the primary point of contact for all media inquiries, coordinating responses, preparing leadership for interviews, and supporting proactive earned media efforts that highlight Cathedral worship, programs, and events.
Support crisis communications and contribute to coordinated messaging during urgent or sensitive situations in partnership with senior leadership and the strategic communications firm.
Represent the Cathedral in interactions with reporters, partner organizations, and the broader public, helping to strengthen relationships and expand awareness of the Cathedral’s work and witness.
Writer for Cathedral Communications; Principal Writer for Cathedral Age; Coordinate content development and editorial planning for Cathedral Age in partnership with Marketing and Communications, Development, and other staff.
Blog and Feature Writing: Write and edit stories for Cathedral blogs, newsletters, and related platforms.
Podcast Content Development: Support podcast content, including scripts, outlines, and narrative structure in collaboration with the Cathedral’s content management team.
National Moments and Rapid Response Writing: Draft timely reflections and statements for moments of national importance; provide rapid response writing so that public messages are thoughtful, relevant, and coordinated.
Editorial Quality and Institutional Alignment: Serve as an editorial partner across departments as needed; help ensure Cathedral-wide communications are clear, consistent, and reflective of Cathedral values.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, English, or a related field
At least five years of experience in media relations, public affairs, journalism, strategic communications, or a related discipline
Demonstrated experience responding to media inquiries and working directly with reporters
Proven ability to write quickly, clearly, and in multiple voices for a range of platforms, including statements, articles, speeches, and digital content

Preferred

Previous experience in a communications or media role within a complex nonprofit, faith-based institution, cultural organization, or mission-driven entity
Experience managing or supporting editorial processes for publications or institutional communications
Demonstrated success in proactive media outreach, including pitching stories and securing earned media placements
Strong understanding of digital communications strategy, analytics, and audience engagement

Washington National Cathedral

Washington National Cathedral is a house of prayer for all people, conceived by our founders to serve as a great church for national purposes. The Cathedral holds a unique place at the intersection of sacred and civic life. As the Cathedral of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, we strive to serve God and our neighbors as agents of reconciliation, a trusted voice of moral leadership and a sacred space where the country gathers during moments of national significance. The Cathedral is built to inspire: a national treasure and Gothic architectural feat standing at the highest point in Washington, DC. Inside, artwork and exhibits tell the American story of faith. Outside, the 59 acres of gardens and grounds provide a beautiful sanctuary. Above all else, the Cathedral is a place for spiritual enrichment. Whether you visit for a tour or tower climb, worship service, concert, pilgrimage, or insightful program—all are welcome.

Washington, District of Columbia, USA

208 employees (36 in marketing)

cathedral.org