Senior Account Executive - Public Affairs

Pinkston • Falls Church, VA

1d • $70,000 - $77,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Pinkston’s Senior Account Executives manage day-to-day account operations, oversee media relations activities, coordinate account team workflows, and maintain regular client relationships. They use public relations experience and media instincts to develop and execute communications strategies, secure media coverage, and help clients navigate complex regulatory issues. The role also supports public affairs initiatives addressing legislative, regulatory, and policy issues, incorporating government relations, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement into broader communications efforts.

This position is based in Falls Church, Virginia, with 5–10% travel. It is exempt and salaried, with a salary range of $70,000–$77,000. Pinkston uses a hybrid work model that allows team members to work remotely 30% of the time, while emphasizing a collaborative in-person work environment.

Requirements

• Undergraduate degree or relevant experience in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in public relations, strategic communications, or a related field.
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Experience developing communications campaigns, pitching media, and securing earned media coverage.
• Strong understanding of the media landscape and ability to identify newsworthy opportunities and emerging trends.
• Proven ability to manage multiple client accounts, competing priorities, and time-sensitive projects.
• Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and attention to detail.
• Alignment with Pinkston’s guiding principles.
• Persistence, commitment to excellence, and drive to exceed expectations.
• Collaborative spirit, teamwork, and ability to give and receive feedback and instruction.
• Awareness of how actions affect the organization and external stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting public affairs, advocacy, or policy-related communications initiatives.
• Experience working directly with client executives and senior leadership.
• Experience providing guidance and mentorship to junior staff.
• Ability to see the broader story of client work and understand how individual contributions advance a larger narrative.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic earned media campaigns and broader public relations initiatives, including integrated public affairs efforts.
• Identify media opportunities, develop targeted pitches, build reporter relationships, and secure meaningful coverage for clients.
• Monitor media coverage, news cycles, and relevant legislative, regulatory, and political developments to identify opportunities and potential challenges.
• Develop and coordinate messaging, talking points, press releases, media pitches, briefing documents, and other strategic communications materials.
• Manage day-to-day client activities, deliverables, and communications while providing strategic counsel and execution support to Account Leads.
• Advise clients on media engagement, including preparation for high-profile opportunities and navigating sensitive situations.
• Coordinate with account teams to advance client priorities, manage competing deadlines, and ensure high-quality work.
• Provide guidance, feedback, and day-to-day support to junior team members.

Benefits

• Company-sponsored health, dental, and vision plans.
• Employer-funded life insurance, HRA, and short-term disability plan.
• Optional long-term disability and additional life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with an annual employer contribution regardless of employee participation.
• Hybrid work model allowing remote work 30% of the time.
• Holiday and vacation policies.
• Paid parental leave.
• An additional week of paid volunteer time off to support a 501(c) nonprofit of the employee’s choice.

What This Job Offers

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