Strategic Communications Specialist

ICF•Arlington, VA

2d•$74,090 - $125,954•Onsite

About The Position

ICF Next is seeking a Strategic Communications Specialist to join their award-winning agency. This role requires a strategic communications or public affairs background in the public sector, focusing on communications activities that support a homeland security, cybersecurity, and infrastructure security client. The ideal candidate will have experience supporting clients with planning and executing public and external affairs initiatives, inter- and intra-agency communications and coordination, travel-related activities, and senior leadership support. Experience supporting high-level government communications operations is highly preferred. This is an exciting role offering excellent opportunities to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Requirements

Ability to secure a public trust security clearance.
BS/BA in Marketing, PR, Journalism, or related field.
Minimum of five (5+) years of demonstrated experience: Assisting in the research, planning, and strategic development of a comprehensive public and external affairs activities.
Minimum of five (5+) years of demonstrated experience: Working with client and project team members.
Minimum of five (5+) years of demonstrated experience: Having Chief of Staff-like skills, such as providing operational advice and support to a senior executive.
Minimum of five (5+) years of demonstrated experience: Knowledge of public relations, public affairs and integrated media.

Nice To Haves

Excellent oral communication skills.
Ability to predict and mitigate problems or conflicts.
Strong organizational abilities.
PR agency, journalism, corporate or government agency experience preferred.
Self-starter, with ability to independently manage tasks and handle multiple priorities.
Experience supporting high level government communications operations is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic guidance and support to senior external affairs officials and leadership on operational efficiencies, strategic messaging, event planning, and staffing at external engagement events.
Distill complex national security information into clear communications and reports for internal and external audiences.
Collaborate with colleagues to create external communications plans that align with and complement vertical plans and bolster the public’s understanding of cyber and infrastructure security threats.
Produce impactful monitoring and metrics analysis reports and contribute recommendations that improve the effectiveness of rapid response and planning communication rollouts.
Serve as a trusted liaison between office leadership and agency leadership.