Communications Manager

Overview

The Communications Manager role is part of a small, dynamic communications team at a nonprofit media organization funded by the U.S. Congress. The position reports to the Chief Communications Officer and is based in Washington, DC with a hybrid working setup. The team manages external media relations, event planning, and internal communications while the organization operates across several Asian regions, delivering uncensored news in nine languages.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships with media professionals to secure earned media coverage such as news stories and interviews.
• Act as the organization's primary media contact and, when designated, serve as its official spokesperson.
• Design and implement swift response plans to address sensitive topics and protect the organization’s reputation.
• Create diverse communications content including media releases, statements, op-eds, leadership remarks, and digital adaptations to increase engagement.
• Coordinate and facilitate participation of journalists and leadership in public events, panels, and discussions with aligned organizations.
• Monitor media attention and public narratives to identify communication opportunities and risks, and evaluate outreach effectiveness.
• Lead the development and management of events that highlight organizational expertise and engage key stakeholders.
• Collaborate across departments to enhance internal communication and promote company objectives.
• Provide communication advice and preparation support to senior leaders for interviews and public appearances.
• Assist with responding to information requests from government and congressional bodies.
• Support digital communication strategies including social media messaging and email campaigns to magnify media presence.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, English, Communications, Marketing, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• At least five years of professional expertise in public relations, media relations, or strategic communications.
• Demonstrated success in developing and managing communications campaigns, preferably within nonprofit or growth-oriented organizations.
• Familiarity with media monitoring and analytics software to track and inform strategies.
• Outstanding writing and editing abilities with a portfolio showcasing press materials and long-form content.
• Experienced in organizing public engagement events such as media briefings and roundtables.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends when necessary.
• Preferred: Established networks with foreign policy media in Washington, DC and Asia, knowledge of Asian geopolitics, and proficiency in languages such as Mandarin, Korean, or Vietnamese.
• Experience with social media and email marketing tools like Mailchimp, Hootsuite, or equivalent platforms is advantageous.

Competencies

• Strategic mindset with an ability to spot or craft opportunities to elevate company messaging while managing risks.
• Excellent communication skills that facilitate engagement across diverse cultures.
• Curious and inquisitive approach reminiscent of journalistic instincts, fostering insightful conversations.
• Innovative and creative thinking that reinvents storytelling aligned with organizational mission.
• Flexible and collaborative attitude with willingness to cover tasks beyond formal responsibilities.
• Resilient decision-maker capable of operating effectively in fast-paced and crisis scenarios.
• Ability to maintain composure and humor under pressure.
• Data-driven in planning and evaluating campaigns using metrics and analytics.

Working Environment

This hybrid role requires three days onsite in Washington, DC and two days remote weekly. The work is predominantly desk-based and may occasionally involve lifting items up to 15 pounds. Reasonable adjustments are available for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Compensation

The annual salary range offered for this position is between $85,500 and $105,000.