Director of Media Relations

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in District of Columbia, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Create and execute the media relations strategy for American Farmland Trust (AFT)

• Establish policies and procedures governing interactions between the media and AFT

• Enhance understanding of AFT’s operations, performance, and strategic direction

• Build and nurture relationships with key media personnel, particularly those reporting on agriculture

• Act as the primary media contact and liaison for AFT subject matter experts

• Lead the execution of projects by setting priorities, defining deadlines, and coordinating with teams and external partners

• Manage high-impact projects and processes that align with divisional and organizational objectives

• Promote collaboration within the organization and across divisions through mentoring, coaching, and sharing expertise

• Collaborate with Directors and Deputy Directors on initiatives that span multiple divisions

• Support AFT’s president, CEO, and other spokespersons during interviews and media events

• Identify and advocate for programmatic and operational initiatives that foster growth and enhance effectiveness

• Oversee the implementation of the National Communications strategy as it pertains to divisional priorities

• Manage written and multimedia communications that highlight priorities, programs, and impact

• Work in partnership with the National Communications team to ensure consistency in internal and external messaging

• Develop and manage press materials that showcase AFT initiatives, research, events, and significant news developments

• Create and secure placements for op-eds, opinion pieces, and thought leadership content

• Draft, edit, and provide strategic advice on executive and organizational communications

• Produce talking points, FAQs, briefing materials, and other communication resources

• Formulate proactive media outreach strategies and seek out opportunities for reporter coverage

• Supervise the Media Relations Associate

⛳️ Requirements

• Proven ability to exercise sound judgment, prioritize competing demands, and make timely, strategic decisions

• Demonstrated capacity to respond effectively and professionally to media inquiries, including urgent requests and reporter deadlines

• Ability to translate complex, technical, or academic subjects into clear, engaging, concise, and on-message communications for the media

• Strong understanding of media relations principles and best practices

• Proficiency in Meltwater and other relevant communications and public relations tools

• Interest in agriculture, conservation, and related policy matters

• Commitment to the mission of American Farmland Trust

• Proven track record of building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders, partners, and media contacts nationwide

• Advanced degree (master’s in business administration, marketing, communications, or a related field) with 10+ years of progressively responsible media relations experience, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience

• Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines

• Occasional domestic travel is required

• Applicants must submit a resume, respond to all screening questions, and include a cover letter detailing their fit for AFT and the position

🏝️ Benefits

• Medical & Prescription Coverage

• Dental Coverage

• Vision Coverage

• Company Paid Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability (LTD)

• Voluntary Life Insurance

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Healthcare & Dependent Care

• Health Savings Account (HSA)

• 401k Plan

• Sick Leave: Regular full-time employees accrue 13 “sick days” annually

• Vacation Leave: Accrue 15 days in the first year, increasing by one day each year to a maximum of 20 days

• Twelve fixed holidays

• A week off between Christmas and New Year’s

• Up to three floating holidays

• Remote work opportunity

• A diverse and inclusive workplace

• Competitive compensation and benefits

• Occasional domestic travel