Manager, Executive & Strategic Communications

American Petroleum Institute • Washington, DC

3h

About The Position

The Manager, Executive and Strategic Communications will play a central role in elevating API’s leadership voice and shaping how the organization engages policymakers, members, and the public. This position supports API’s senior leadership in advancing key priorities through compelling executive communications — including speeches, op-eds, member communications, and thought leadership content that brings API’s mission and policy goals to life.

The ideal candidate is a creative storyteller, outstanding writer and strategic communicator who can craft clear, authentic narratives and identify fresh ways to reach audiences across traditional and emerging platforms. This role combines strong writing and editorial skills with content strategy and message development — helping ensure API’s leadership is visible, consistent, and influential across media, membership, and external channels.

Requirements

• Requires a minimum of 5-7 years of experience in a similar role and subject matter expertise.
• Bachelor's degree in relevant area, or other related field equivalent work experience.
• Degree in journalism, communications, or relevant field.
• Outstanding writing/editing skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Strong knowledge of AP style.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across a large organization and build and maintain strong relationships with the media.
• Working knowledge of policy issues, Congress, the Executive Branch, and political debate.
• Talent for distilling complex issues into understandable, relevant messages.
• Ability to perform in a fast work environment and multi-task multiple projects and initiatives under tight deadlines.
• Ability to provide informed media counsel and exercise sound judgment when interacting with reporters.
• Able to remain in a stationary position working on a computer
• Move about the office to access office machinery, meeting rooms, etc. on occasion
• Operate a computer and other office machinery such as printers and copy machines
• Transport items and equipment up to 10 lbs. on occasion

Responsibilities

• Draft and edit a broad range of executive communications materials—including member messaging, speeches, event remarks, op-eds, talking points, and public statements—that articulate API’s priorities and strengthen the visibility of its leadership.
• Manage the development and coordination of executive remarks and speeches—working across teams and with external partners to align messaging, coordinate inputs, and ensure high-quality execution for internal and external events.
• Collaborate with the media relations team to identify and pursue thought leadership opportunities, including commentary, podcasts, panels, and editorial placements.
• Help position API as its own publisher by developing original commentary to reach audiences and create news cycles directly through API’s owned channels.
• Engage opinion columnists and editorial boards to advance API’s policy perspectives and elevate its leadership voice in the national energy conversation.
• Develop creative, high-impact content that elevates API executives through storytelling and digital engagement—transforming key messages into compelling narratives, op-eds, creative content and videos that reach new audiences.
• Work with policy teams to translate complex issues into clear, persuasive communications that support leadership remarks and broader advocacy initiatives.
• Conduct background research, fact-checking, and message coordination to support speechwriting and content planning.
• Operate effectively in a fast-paced environment, balancing multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining accuracy, quality, and a high sense of urgency.
• Draft and edit fact sheets, external communications materials, and website copy that support and amplify API’s advocacy priorities.
• Assist with event communications, including scripting and coordination of leadership materials.
• Maintain a consistent tone and message across all communications products that reflect API’s leadership and brand standards.

Benefits

• API offers a comprehensive benefits package for our employees and their families. More information about our benefits may be found at api.org/about/careers/benefits.

What This Job Offers

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