Manager, State Media Relations

Consumer Brands Association•Arlington, VA

About The Position

The M anager, State M edia Relations is responsible for supporting Consumer Brands ’ media relations efforts to tell a compelling industry narrative and advance the organization’s state advocacy agenda. Reporting to the D irector, M edia Relations , this person will work as a strategic partner with the Director , as well as collaboratively with the communications team, spokespeople and issue experts to develop key messages, industry and executive thought-leadership opportunities and comprehensive earned media campaigns across a variety of priority issue areas . The ideal candidate has a media relations background with knowledge of state-level policy landscapes. This role is an individual contributor position and does not include formal people management responsibilities at this time.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications , Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science or a related field.
3 + years in media role or related work.
Excellent written communications skills.
Strategic and creative thinker.
Superior project management skills including the ability to juggle multiple priorities and manage deadlines.
Exceptional interpersonal skills including the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, effectively navigate conflict and build and maintain strong relationships with the media and other key stakeholders.
Comfort around senior level management – internal and external.
Strong understanding of Microsoft Office Suite and earned media tools such as Muckrack and Meltwater .
Strong knowledge of AP Style.

Nice To Haves

Existing relationships with media preferred.
Experience working in state politics is a plus.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain relationships with reporters from traditional, industry trade , political and emerging media outlets in priority states
Develop and maintain key relationships with communications staff in targeted state legislative offices and key committees.
Proactively build press awareness of industry campaigns, issues and events.
Identify and elevate targeted media opportunities to increase brand awareness and profile of the association brand and its state lobbying team.
Monitor state media environments and respond to breaking news.
Write talking points, press releases, media advisories, Op-Eds, letters to the editor, blog posts and executive briefing documents.
Maintain an acute understanding of policy and industry issues including understanding their history, current activity and future developments.
Collaborate across functions to develop key messaging on advocacy issues.
O rchestrate and accompany spokespeople on interviews.
Be proactive and creative in pitching ideas internally to breakthrough with key messages.
Provide information, updates and background materials to Consumer Brands members, staff and stakeholders on all media matters.
Create and update media lists.
Track media coverage and update media tracker daily.