Director, Advocacy Communications

National Association of Convenience Stores•Alexandria, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The leading global trade association dedicated to advancing convenience and fuel retailing, NACS advances the role of convenience stores as positive economic, social and philanthropic contributors to the communities they serve and is a trusted adviser to retailer and supplier members from more than 50 countries. The U.S. convenience store industry, with more than 152,000 stores nationwide selling fuel, food and merchandise, conducts 160 million transactions daily and had sales of $860 billion in 2023. A member-driven organization, NACS has 70-plus employees and an annual operating budget of approximately $60 million. NACS supports the industry through its media platforms, advocacy efforts, research, events, products & services, and industry initiatives, helping members stay informed and connected. NACS Media is the voice that connects the convenience and fuel retailing industry through various channels, including its award-winning monthly publication NACS Magazine, NACS Daily e-newsletter and other modern media such as its weekly Convenience Matters podcast and Convenience Corner blog. This is where ideas are shared, products are launched, and consumer needs are solved. NACS also is a hub for cutting-edge research, insightful analysis, innovative educational opportunities and key industry initiatives that aim to advance the future of convenience and fuel retailing, including the NACS Show, one of the largest annual tradeshows in the country; more than a dozen targeted and regional events; 5 executive education programs at ivy-league universities and extensive advocacy to both elected leaders and the general public. This position will be part of a team advocating before the executive and legislative branches of the federal government on behalf of the convenience store industry and assisting the Association in devising regulatory and policy strategies to advocate for the industry. As a member of the NACS Government Relations Team, this person must be able to work independently, as well as in a team environment. This position includes working with C-Suite executives of Fortune 500 Companies and participating in a Top 40 U.S. convention. The role is located onsite at NACS Headquarters in Alexandria, VA.

Requirements

Experience with advocating through the full range of press, social media and other outlets
Experience with creating and executing strategic communication plans
Experience balancing policy perspectives
Highly effective written, oral and interpersonal communication skills
Self-motivated and able to work independently
Positive cultural fit: team player and person of integrity
Available for moderate travel

Responsibilities

Devise and execute on communications strategies to advance the policy advocacy of the association
Build and maintain relationships with key members of the press
Coordinate with lobbying team on communications plans
Work with coalitions on joint communications advocacy
Coordinate with NACS communications staff to integrate policy advocacy with association and industry communications
Draft articles and thought leadership pieces on advocacy for NACS publications
Keep association members informed on NACS policy advocacy
Participate in NACS events, including the NACS Show, NACS In Store and other events as assigned
Other responsibilities as assigned