Senior Manager, Communications and Public Relations

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

📋 Description

• Assist in implementing proactive media strategies aligned with organizational objectives, campaigns, partnerships, advocacy efforts, and significant announcements.

• Pitch, secure, coordinate, and facilitate national, regional, local, and trade media opportunities.

• Establish and nurture relationships with reporters, producers, editors, and freelance journalists.

• Compose and revise press releases, media advisories, talking points, briefing documents, statements, FAQs, and messaging materials.

• Aid in preparing executives, spokespeople, self-advocates, families, researchers, partners, and ambassadors for media interviews.

• Monitor news cycles and assist in rapid-response communications and sensitive media inquiries.

• Work collaboratively with internal teams to identify stories, spokespeople, and community viewpoints.

• Ensure consistency across external communication materials and public messaging.

• Manage media lists, track coverage, report findings, and handle communication resources.

• Collaborate across departments to create integrated communications and public messaging.

• Coordinate with external PR agencies, consultants, partners, vendors, and stakeholders.

• Facilitate internal communication processes, approvals, and workflows.

• Act as a communications resource for regional teams.

• Assist with communications for corporate partnerships, fundraising initiatives, organizational projects, community events, celebrities, high-profile supporters, and select organizational activities.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field is preferred.

• 6-8 years of experience in public relations, communications, media relations, journalism, or a similar communications role.

• Proven history of pitching and securing media coverage.

• Experience in drafting and editing press releases, media advisories, talking points, briefing documents, statements, FAQs, and messaging materials.

• Familiarity with media monitoring, distribution, or reporting platforms.

• Experience in nonprofit, advocacy, healthcare, disability, and mission-driven communications settings is preferred.

• Willingness to travel occasionally, typically a few times each year.

• Availability for time-sensitive assignments during evenings or weekends.

• Exceptional writing, editing, proofreading, and storytelling abilities.

• Skill in translating complex or technical subjects into clear, engaging messaging.

• Strong news judgment and media instincts.

• Ability to recognize timely story opportunities.

• Capability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and communication requirements in a fast-paced, collaborative atmosphere.

• Sound judgment and professionalism.

• Dedication to respectful, community-centered communications and the mission of Autism Speaks.

• Experience with new tools and technologies, including AI, to enhance workflow, efficiency, and productivity while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality.

• Must ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of Autism Speaks data and information.

🏝️ Benefits

• Opportunities for occasional travel.

• Commitment to an equal opportunity and inclusive workplace.

• Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.