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We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Public Affairs Director to join a leading strategic communications agency in Washington, D.C. This individual will bring a minimum of 10 years of experience in public affairs with a focus on crisis and reputation management. As a key leader within the team, the Public Affairs Director will drive client strategies, build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, and help navigate complex issues impacting clients across varied sectors.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement comprehensive public affairs strategies for clients, aligning their goals with the evolving political and media landscape.
- Act as a senior advisor to clients, providing guidance on sensitive issues, crisis situations, and reputation management.
- Lead client projects from ideation through execution, ensuring high standards and measurable outcomes.
Crisis and Reputation Management
- Manage and respond to high-stakes situations for clients, providing real-time guidance and crafting messaging to address potential reputational risks.
- Develop proactive and reactive crisis communications plans that prepare clients for potential threats and ensure effective response.
- Act as a spokesperson when necessary, representing clients in media interactions during critical issues.
Stakeholder and Media Relations
- Build and nurture relationships with government officials, regulatory bodies, industry associations, and other key stakeholders on behalf of clients.
- Develop and execute targeted media outreach strategies to positively influence public perception and align with client messaging.
- Maintain a network of influential contacts within media, government, and industry to enhance client positioning.
Client and Team Management
- Serve as the primary point of contact for senior clients, managing expectations, and delivering outstanding client service.
- Collaborate with internal teams, including digital and content strategists, to deliver integrated communication strategies.
- Mentor and develop junior team members, fostering a culture of excellence and professional growth.
Research and Policy Analysis
- Stay informed on policy developments, regulatory changes, and political issues impacting clients.
- Provide clients with timely insights and actionable intelligence on relevant policy matters.
- Leverage data and research to create compelling narratives that support public affairs objectives.
Qualifications:
Experience: Minimum of 10 years in public affairs, communications, or a related field, with extensive experience in crisis and reputation management. Agency experience is highly preferred.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Political Science, or a related field. A master’s degree or additional certification in a related area is a plus.
Skills:
- Proven ability to navigate complex public affairs challenges and provide effective solutions.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to craft clear, impactful messaging under pressure.
- Excellent project management skills, with a track record of handling multiple high-profile projects simultaneously.
- Knowledge of the political landscape and key issues affecting clients across sectors.
- A well-developed network within media and government circles is preferred.
Key Competencies:
Strategic Vision: Ability to assess situations quickly and develop strategic responses that align with client goals and protect their reputation.
Crisis Response: Composed under pressure, with the ability to make decisive, high-stakes decisions.
Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal skills to establish trust and credibility with both clients and stakeholders.
Adaptability: Agile in a fast-paced environment, adjusting to client needs and external developments swiftly.
If this sounds like you -- let's chat!
Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the ‘Apply’ link.
Please note that due to the high value of applicants, if you have not heard from Capstone Hill Search then you, unfortunately, have not been selected for this role.
Capstone Hill Search: public relations, public affairs, digital, corporate communications, stakeholder, government & investor relations. Working across North America, UK & Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia.
Contact Person
Matt Ver Bruggen
Global Managing Director