Senior Writer, Executive Communications

Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc.

1d • $100,000 - $115,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

NRDC is a non-profit environmental advocacy organization. We use law, science, and the support of 3.1 million members and online activists to protect the planet's wildlife and wild places and to ensure the rights of all people to clean air, clean water, and healthy communities. NRDC was founded in 1970 and our people helped write some of America's bedrock environmental laws, including the Clean Water Act and many of the implementing regulations. Today, our team of more than 700 lawyers, scientists, economists, policy advocates, communications experts, and others work across the United States and the globe from our offices in Beijing; Chicago; New Delhi; New York; San Francisco; Santa Monica; and Washington, D.C.
NRDC is seeking a Senior Writer, Executive Communications to work in the Executive Office department in one of our US offices.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Writer, Executive Communications plays a critical role in drafting, producing, and executing communications in the President & CEO’s voice. The Senior Writer transforms complex policy and organizational information into clear, compelling, and strategically aligned content for diverse audiences including staff, Trustees, donors, policymakers, and the public.
Working under the direction of the Senior Manager, Executive Communications, this role produces written materials across internal communications, board engagement, speeches and talking points, social media content, event preparation, and briefing materials. The Senior Writer also fully owns all advance and travel preparation for the President’s external engagements.
The successful candidate brings exceptional writing craft, strong organizational skills, and the ability to translate direction into polished, audience-ready communications.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, writing, English, public affairs, or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience writing for senior leaders or public figures (nonprofit, government, industry, academia preferred).
• And/or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Exceptional writing and storytelling skills, with proven ability to adapt another person’s voice.
• Strong research, interviewing, and content development abilities.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and project-management skills.
• Excellent proofreading, copyediting, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while incorporating feedback effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
• Team-oriented, collaborative, and collegial attitude.
• High discretion and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to travel to NRDC U.S.–based offices and external events (10–15% annually).
• Commitment to NRDC’s mission, values, and DEI principles.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with climate change, environmental policy, or related issues (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Draft, edit, and proof written and verbal communications across all platforms, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and consistency with the President’s voice.
• Prepare talking points, scripts, remarks, op-eds, blogs, social media content, briefing materials, and correspondence.
• Conduct background research, fact-checking, and SME consultations to strengthen content.
• Manage version control and coordinate the review process with internal stakeholders.
• Draft all speeches, scripts, and talking points for confirmed engagements, incorporating research and strategic direction.
• Prepare full briefing books, background research, and scenario planning for each event.
• Support event pitching by drafting pitch language and researching hosts, audiences, and agendas.
• Provide onsite writing and real-time support during major events.
• Draft and produce social media posts, including rapid-response content.
• Mine the President’s calendar, NRDC’s work, and news coverage for opportunities to highlight priority themes.
• Track analytics and audience engagement to inform future content.
• Draft all-staff, small-group, and individual emails; prepare internal remarks and materials for staff meetings or office visits.
• Convert leadership direction into clear communications tailored to staff needs.
• Support all aspects of internal messaging production and distribution.
• Draft Board Book materials, Board presentations, talking points, and follow-up communications.
• Support onsite board engagement by preparing last-minute edits and day-of materials.
• Fully own all advance planning for external engagements: liaise with hosts, develop schedules, confirm logistics, and coordinate briefing sessions.
• Prepare complete briefing books, timelines, scripts, travel materials, and contingency plans.
• Manage all travel logistics and itineraries in partnership with the Executive Office.
• Provide onsite support and real-time adjustments during events.
• Work closely with colleagues across the Executive Office, Communications, Development, Board Relations, and Program teams.
• Support special projects and emerging needs related to executive communications.
• Serv in a supporting role to the Senior Manager, Executive Communications, in the CEO Voice Working Group.

Benefits

• We offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a supportive working environment.
• Salary is based on a nonprofit scale and is commensurate with skills and experience.
• Internal equity will be reviewed and considered to determine a final offer.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees