Director, Crisis Communications

Bully Pulpit International • Washington, DC

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Bully Pulpit International (BPI) is an outcomes agency composed of strategists, data scientists, and creatives with diverse backgrounds in politics, brands, non-profits, and government. With a team of 400 people across six countries and thirteen offices, BPI applies its expertise in strategic communications, public affairs, research, and digital marketing to develop sophisticated, customized strategies for both American and European clients. This Director role is based in Washington D.C., New York, or Chicago, with an expectation of working in-person at least three days a week and remotely the remainder of the time. The starting salary range is $110,000 - $135,000.

Requirements

• 8–10+ years in public affairs, PR, or strategic communications, with a preference for agency, in-house, or political backgrounds.
• 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, leading cross-functional teams independently, and drafting quality, successful proposals.
• Ability to remain calm and provide real-time recommendations under high-pressure, tight-timeline scenarios.
• Understanding and appreciation for the 24/7 modern communications landscape, and the required work ethic and ethos.
• 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 efforts for clients facing significant public challenges and reputational risks, managing the entire crisis lifecycle from immediate response to post-crisis brand rebuilding.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for corporate leaders and legal teams, offering steady, clear counsel in high-stakes situations and demonstrating adaptability to the 24/7 nature of crisis communications.
• Develop and execute communications plans to address active threats, utilizing news coverage, digital channels, and internal messaging to safeguard client reputations.
• Coordinate with internal data, digital media, and creative design teams, producing clear and polished client products such as memos, strategy decks, and graphic reports.
• Draft high-stakes materials like press statements, Q&As, and briefings rapidly under tight deadlines in response to breaking news.
• Manage incoming media inquiries and proactively ensure accurate representation of the client's narrative, engaging reporters directly via phone, video, or in-person.
• Shape stories directly with journalists, negotiate media terms (off-the-record, background, deep-background), and push back on inaccuracies.
• Manage internal teams across different offices to ensure accuracy, security, and timely delivery of work, inspiring them to meet the demands of a 24/7 communications environment.
• Act as a manager and coach for junior staff, guiding them in supporting clients and agency leadership during crisis communications.
• Collaborate with agency leadership on spotting new business opportunities and drafting client-ready proposals that include media relations and strategic communications components.
• Build deeper relationships with existing clients by introducing crisis-preparedness planning and attract new clients through clear pitch presentations.

Benefits

• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for U.S.-based employees.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director