Job Description

AFT Maryland

Director of Public Relations and Communications

Based in Maryland

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) – Maryland is a federation of local affiliate unions representing teachers and public employees throughout the State of Maryland. The AFT-Maryland is seeking a highly qualified individual who will be responsible for internal and external communications to union members, leaders, and stakeholders. The Director of Public Relations and Communications will lead the Public Relations Department by crafting a progressive, dynamic vision for Public Relations that advances the goals of the union through bold strategic communications in collaboration with other departments.

The Director of Public Relations and Communications serves as a communications strategist and helps the President manage the earned media, online media, internal, and external communications needs of the Federation, its affiliate unions, and the central labor council across the state. Candidates with a demonstrated commitment to the labor movement are encouraged to apply.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops clear, specific, and ambitious performance targets for Public Relations; evaluates the progress of the Department’s programs and initiatives; and helps adjust strategy and approach accordingly to achieve success.
• Writes and reviews key internal and external communications, including media statements, electronic newsletters, videos, and other digital communications.
• Drives the public presentation of AFT Maryland; cultivates and maintains relationships with the media and other influential professionals; and manages sensitive issues with the same to continue to grow AFT MD’s strong reputation as an advocate for employees.
• Prepares and presents regular updates for the President, summarizing progress and key points of projects and initiatives, and distilling key lessons that will accelerate the learning curve of AFT MD leadership.
• Develops and delivers relevant training to AFT MD’s local leaders.
• Monitors the efficacy of communications campaigns, ensuring that messages are presented clearly, consistently, and effectively across media, including but not limited to website, social media, video, publications, paid media, and mass email, text, and voice messaging; and reports regularly to department leaders on communications activity and success.
• Lead the development and execution of communications plans that support unions’ organizing, legislative, political, contract, and mobilization campaigns.
• Assist the President in managing media relations, including through developing and maintaining strong press relationships, pitching and placing op-eds and stories to the press, tracking and vetting incoming media inquiries, organizing press conferences, preparing press materials and messaging points, monitoring news cycles, etc.
• Work with the President to oversee content development and distribution for all communication mediums, including content such as press releases, media advisories, statements, op-eds, e-mail blasts, social media posts, campaign literature, talking points, blog posts, and content for the Federation’s website;
• Develop strategies to expand the Federation’s digital communications program, evaluate the Federation’s online reach and engagement metrics, and advise on strategies for online growth.
• Work in conjunction with other senior staff in the Federation and National to develop and advise on strategic messaging around core campaigns and assist with crisis communications.
• Provide staffing support to the Federation’s leaders at press conferences, media avails, rallies, other events, and meetings.
• Provide staffing support for the Federation’s events, conferences, convenings, and other meetings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and minimum 5 years of public relations, strategic communications, or related work experience
• Master’s degree in communications, journalism, or related field a plus.
• Experience writing strategic communications plans using social media.
• Experience coordinating successful PR campaigns, working with the media, managing digital communications, and writing content, including crisis communications, in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working with a unionized workforce a plus.
• Political acumen and ability to navigate the political environment, understand the congressional process, and draw together competing voices.
• Superior interpersonal skills; fast learner with capability to master issues quickly; values collaboration; and is inspired by criticism and feedback.
• Outstanding writing and speaking skills across platforms; and proven ability to present to senior leaders, Executive Board, and other stakeholders.
• Full of energy and focus to work productively in a high-pressure environment, moving swiftly between changing priorities during a demanding work schedule.
• Prior experience managing media relations and strategic communications, including a proven track record of successful media placements;
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including the ability to quickly synthesize and distill complex information into concise, impactful external messaging;
• Excellent content creation skills, including the ability to develop and execute short and long-term organizational communications plans;
• Prior experience working in, or knowledge of, the labor movement;
• Preferred prior experience leading communications for labor, political, and/or progressive advocacy campaigns;
• Previous experience with website content management;
• Strong work ethic and strict attention to detail;
• Track record of taking initiative and demonstrating strong project management skills;
• Strong ability to write effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with short deadlines.
• Preferred experience with social media management and use of Action Network or similar platforms for mass email programs;
• Microsoft Office Suite.

Physical Requirements:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the following is required for the position:

• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Written/oral communication skills
• Use of a computer keyboard
• Sitting/standing for long periods
• Ability to travel by various means, e.g., train, plane, automobile.

How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter, a résumé and 3 references including contact information and relationship to: [email protected] , with subject line: Director of Public Relations and Communications

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage all qualified applicants to apply. The organization strives to eradicate all forms of oppression and achieve equity for all. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are essential organizational goals which are incorporated into the hiring process.

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