Director, Communications & Public Affairs

International Fresh Produce•Washington, DC

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is seeking a dynamic and experienced media leader for the position of Director, Communications & Public Affairs. In this crucial role, the individual will play a key part in shaping and enhancing the organization's global image and advising leaders on intricate policy and regulatory landscapes. This position demands a combination of acumen and proactive measures to strategically plan, devise, and implement effective communication strategies, particularly focusing on U.S. and global government entities. The role involves close collaboration with leaders across the association to drive IFPA’s policy positions and establish a compelling brand voice to increase positive awareness of the industry and IFPA members among key stakeholders. This person will directly supervise, coach, and develop the Communications and Media Relations Manager, setting priorities and ensuring high-quality execution. We are seeking a self-starter with curiosity, tenacity, policy expertise, media savviness, creativity, and a drive to achieve success for this exciting opportunity.

Requirements

Bachelors degree required in Communications, Public Relations, English, Journalism or related field.
6+ years of progressive experience with communications, media relations and leading a team
Experience working for a political office, agency or organization in Washington, DC strongly preferred
Experience working with Washington DC media strongly preferred
Strong Understanding of industry issues, US trade policy; basic understanding of the global trade landscape desired
Interest and understanding of government policy and political science strongly preferred
Familiarity with EU Government institutions, processes and policy landscape a plus
Proven track record of effective communications on policy issues and initiatives
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills, media relationships and stakeholder engagement
Proactive, hands-off execution and innovative angles to stories and visibility
Drive for results and relentless pursuit to win
Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders including senior executives, association members and government offices
Effective agency management experience requires
Ability to learn quickly and prioritize information
Proven results with successful campaigns or policy victories
Knowledge and ability to deliver on standard and innovative PR tactics and best practices.
Ability to work in face-paced environment, under pressure and balance multiple priorities effectively
MS Office suite

Nice To Haves

Masters Degree preferred
Located in the Washington DC metro area strongly preferred.
Business related travel required on average 3-5 times per year.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic counsel to the corporate communications and marketing teams on the policy issues, implications and recommendations leveraging communications and media
Work closely with the Government Relations, Food Safety and Regulatory and Science and Technology teams with ongoing issues affecting policy
Develop and implement a comprehensive public affairs communications and media relations strategy to enhance the association’s awareness, issues and visibility
Lead the association's global media strategy, with support and strategic guidance from the Vice President, Content & Communications
Cultivate relationships with journalists, editors and media outlets to secure positive coverage
Manage external agency resources
Cultivate relationship to build the IFPA brand within Washington, DC circles
Manage and measure association’s government and issues communications program
Create and execute media pitches for government trade and consumer media related to policy issues
Proactively seek opportunities to drive the association’s positions and narrative
Ensures appropriate metrics are being measured to capture association’s media and messaging performance
Monitor policy stories and media landscape for proactive opportunities to leverage company thought leaders and positions
Ensure media experience and partnership with association is productive and positive
Collaborate with internal teams to develop and refine key policy messages
Craft compelling and clear communications including press releases, statements, quotes and talking points
Serve as lead press handler for IFPA members and Senior management during appearances, including testimony
Drive communications strategy to amplify the association’s policy priorities and government relations advocacy efforts
Partner and align with marketing and communications functions to ensure a seamless and cohesive brand narrative; leverage IFPA research and experts to solidify expertise and value
Directly supervise the Communications and Media Relations Manager, providing day-to-day direction, coaching, and professional development
Set goals, priorities and performance expectations; conduct regular check-ins and performance reviews
Delegate and oversee media relations and communications work to ensure quality, consistency and timely execution
Foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture aligned with IFPA’s brand voice and policy priorities