Advocacy Press Officer

Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is the nation’s leading women’s health care provider, educator, and advocate, serving women, men, teens and families. For over 100 years, PPFA has done more than any other organization in the United States to improve women’s health and safety, prevent unintended pregnancies, and advance the right and ability of individuals and families to make informed and responsible health care decisions.
Planned Parenthood Action Fund is an independent, nonpartisan, not-for-profit membership organization formed as the advocacy and political arm of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. The Action Fund engages in educational and electoral activity, including voter education, grassroots organizing, and legislative advocacy. 
The Advocacy Press Officer is responsible for implementation of media relations strategies to inform and influence key audiences on advocacy and policy fights around Planned Parenthood Federation of America and the Planned Parenthood Action Fund's work. The Advocacy Press Officer is also responsible for producing material for media, responding to media requests, and proactively reaching out to media outlets. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Draft press releases, statements, advisories, op-ed pieces, internal memoranda, briefings, message guidance, fact sheets, and other material that supports media relations efforts.
• Pitch reporters proactively and work with a range of media outlets.
• Respond to inquiries from reporters, and facilitate interviews, press stories, etc.
• Arrange and coordinate logistics around interview requests, bookings, and supporting external parties and partners with message and media guidance.
• Identify journalists to connect more deeply with Planned Parenthood. Maintain media contacts lists, and build and maintain relationships with key journalists at a range of outlets.
• Produce or assist with media-related events and trainings.
• Work with affiliates and relevant departments to ensure that media materials and strategies reflect broader goals related to advocacy, organization, education, health care services, policy, and affiliate priorities.
• Work with affiliates and relevant departments to help drive local/state narratives and integrate affiliate developments into national communications narratives.
• Coordinate with coalition partners and other allies to implement shared media relations goals.
• Participate fully in brainstorming and planning sessions on communications work.
• Provide administrative backup to the media team on a regular basis, including answering phones, making photocopies, filing, and providing other support.
• Act as a media relations point person. Handle day-to-day media relations on a wide range of Planned Parenthood issues and provide direct support related to specific Planned Parenthood issues.
• Complete special projects as assigned. 

REQUIREMENTS / TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

• 3-5 years of work experience, with experience working directly with members of the media, including reporters, producers, bloggers, and writers, preferred.

PERSONAL QUALITIES /OTHER ATTRIBUTES

• Must possess excellent communication skills, in writing, in person, and on the phone.
• Must write and edit proficiently and quickly.
• Must be motivated and a self-starter with excellent customer service/interpersonal relationship skills.
• Must have experience and comfort with public speaking and cold calling, as well as interest in media work.
• Must be organized and able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be a team player and be accustomed to working under pressure.
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in media writing and media work, including PR data bases.
• Existing direct relationships with members of the press and extensive knowledge of the operations of the news media (including print, online, blogs, and broadcast) a plus.
• Knowledge of communicating with diverse groups, working with a multicultural workforce, and sensitivity and appreciation to cultural differences is required.

TRAVEL

• 0-25%

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DIVERSE CANDIDATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY 
Planned Parenthood Federation of America is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining a non-discriminatory work environment, and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.  Planned Parenthood is committed to creating a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion, respect and integrity, customer focus, and innovation.

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