NRDC seeks a Press Secretary to work as a part of its fast-paced Federal Communications Program in Washington. The Press Secretary reports to the Federal Communications Director, and will work with other communications staffers and program experts in Washington (as well as in other NRDC offices) to promote the full array of NRDC’s federal agenda, which includes air, water, clean energy, transportation and health issues. The Press Secretary will craft and implement proactive media strategies, respond in real time to media inquiries (from TV networks and cable television to the trade press and activists-bloggers), draft press statements, media advisories and talking points for our program experts, ghost Op-Eds, blogs and letters to the editor, and collaborate with other environment groups in joint efforts.
- The Press Secretary occupies a key role in the communications team, projecting NRDC and its positions on a wide variety of environmental issues. The target audiences include media that reach not only the general public but also the White House, Congress and the Supreme Court, as well as interest groups and stakeholders.
- The Press Secretary is expected develop, maintain and expand NRDC’s list of media contacts--and to reach out to them regularly in order to shape stories, thereby creating a desired narrative BEFORE a contrarian story line has taken hold.
- The Press Secretary may also supervise the work of media consultants who are periodically engaged to help NRDC execute specific media-outreach efforts (such field-visits to editorial boards in key regions of the country and the preparation of background materials for such efforts). In addition to attracting earned media (in stories as well as in newspaper editorials and opinion columns), the Press Secretary also will be closely involved in paid-media campaigns, helping shape ads (print and audio-video).
- The Press Secretary also will help program staffers conceive, develop and shape reports by advising on concept as well as structure—and ensure that the relevant messages and findings are clear, compelling and of interest to press and decision makers. Working in collaboration with program staffers, the Press Secretary will shape the content and messages on issues-papers and fact sheets.
- At least seven years of experience in writing and editing is required, preferably involving public policy, with an emphasis on science and/or environmental issues. Strong organizational skills and project management capacities are essential. Initiative is highly desirable. Experience in, and detailed knowledge of, politics, particularly in the federal arena, are preferred. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to quickly conceive, organize, compose public messages, and to translate complex material into everyday but compelling language.
- NRDC is committed to workplace diversity and inclusion. We are equal opportunity employers and do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a pleasant working environment. Salary is based on a nonprofit scale and commensurate with experience.