Director, Crisis Communications
About The Position
Bully Pulpit International (BPI) is seeking a Director of Crisis Communications to lead strategic efforts for clients facing significant public challenges and reputational risks. This role involves managing crisis response from beginning to end, guiding clients through intense periods, and assisting in their brand recovery. The position requires a blend of political insight, discretion, creative problem-solving, and meticulous project management. As a "player-coach," the individual will be adept at both advising executives and executing hands-on tasks, thriving in fast-paced environments, simplifying complex issues into clear narratives, and demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit. The role demands 24/7 agility to manage the continuous news cycle. A background combining agency, in-house, or government experience is ideal, with previous agency experience being highly desirable.
Requirements
- 8–10+ years in public affairs, PR, or strategic comms (agency + in-house or political background preferred).
- Mastery of AP Style.
- Ability to pivot between creative storytelling and analytical strategic reporting.
- Proficiency in media monitoring software (Cision, Meltwater) and social media marketing platforms.
- Proven track record of managing multi-client deliverables.
- Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams with independence.
- Proven track record of drafting quality, successful proposals.
- Ability to stay calm and provide "real-time" recommendations under high-pressure, tight-timeline scenarios.
- Understanding and appreciation for the 24/7 modern communications landscape, and the work ethic and ethos that requires.
- Excellent writing and verbal presentation skills.
Nice To Haves
- Previous agency experience is highly desired.
- Previous experience drafting quality, successful proposals is highly desired.
Responsibilities
- Lead strategic client efforts for public challenges and reputational risks.
- Manage client work end-to-end, including emergency response, crisis management, and brand rebuilding.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for corporate leaders and legal teams, providing counsel in high-pressure situations.
- Develop and execute communications plans to address active threats using news coverage, digital channels, and internal messaging.
- Coordinate with internal data, digital media, and creative design teams.
- Create clear, polished client products such as memos, strategy decks, and graphic reports.
- Draft high-stakes materials like press statements, Q&As, and briefings under tight deadlines.
- Manage incoming media inquiries and ensure accurate representation of the client's narrative.
- Engage reporters directly via phone, video, or in-person, and push back on inaccuracies.
- Shape stories directly with journalists to protect a client's brand or correct the record.
- Negotiate media terms such as off-the-record, background, and deep-background.
- Manage internal teams across offices to ensure accuracy, security, and timely delivery of work.
- Inspire teams to meet the demands of a 24/7 communications environment.
- Act as a manager and coach for junior staff, training them in crisis communications support.
- Collaborate with agency leadership on spotting new business opportunities.
- Draft client-ready proposals for media relations and strategic communications.
- Build deeper relationships with existing clients by introducing crisis-preparedness planning.
- Win new clients by drafting and creating clear pitch presentations.
Benefits
- 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) program with employer match up to 4%
- Generous time off for vacation
- $50 monthly phone reimbursement
- Unlimited sick time
- 16 weeks of paid leave for new parents
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
