Responsibilities

• 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
• 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
• 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.

Benefits

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