VP, Public Affairs

Synchrony • Baltimore, MD

23h • $130,000 - $210,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Public Affairs Vice President is a key member of Synchrony’s External Corporate Communications Team and reports to the SVP, External Corporate Communications and Public Affairs. The role leads communications supporting corporate reputation, policy priorities, advocacy engagement, and relationships with third-party stakeholders. Working across Government Affairs, Corporate Events, Brand, and other functions, the VP shapes and enhances Synchrony’s reputation through media relations, message development, coalition management, crisis response, and grassroots engagement.

The position may be based at the Washington, DC hub or worked from home in the DC area, with an expectation of participating in numerous in-person events and connections in DC. Synchrony’s flexible work approach also requires commuting to the nearest hub for in-person engagement activities such as business or team meetings, training, and culture events. Business travel may be required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, or a high school diploma/GED and 12 or more years of relevant communications experience in lieu of a degree.
• At least 10 years of communications experience at a large organization or leading PR agency.
• Experience in public affairs, political campaigns, or working with state or federal elected officials.
• Experience at or with a company in a highly regulated industry.
• Experience developing and successfully executing 360-degree strategic communications plans.
• Political savvy and understanding of how the external environment affects company priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to distill complex ideas into clear, understandable messaging.
• Strong relationship management skills and ability to build lasting internal and external partnerships.
• Collaborative approach and ability to manage multiple initiatives with a positive attitude.
• Ability and flexibility to travel for business as required.
• Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be willing to complete a drug test, background investigation, and fingerprinting as part of onboarding.
• Must be able to satisfy Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States is required; employment visa sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

• Strong leadership presence and ability to counsel senior leaders and influence cross-functional partners.
• Demonstrated ability to manage ambiguity, exercise sound judgment, and make decisions in high-stakes environments.
• State government and/or state political affairs experience.
• Track record with state legislative issues.
• Experience working with industry trade associations.

Responsibilities

• Develop a long-term strategic advocacy and public policy communications program that supports Synchrony’s policy objectives and reputation building.
• Identify partnership opportunities with third-party groups and opinion leaders to advance legislative priorities.
• Lead issue campaigns and corporate reputation initiatives, including creative storytelling and development of issue briefs, fact sheets, and other materials.
• Develop and drive project plans to ensure communications campaigns achieve intended results, addressing gaps as needed to meet targets.
• Manage issues and reactive communications in coordination with the Corporate Affairs function.
• Communicate regularly about Synchrony’s business and public policy priorities with internal and external stakeholders, including media, trade associations, consultants, and interest groups.
• Contribute to Corporate Communications efforts highlighting the company’s leadership, partnerships, and storytelling.
• Manage agency partners and oversee campaign budgets.
• Support internal and external events, including advising on DC and policy-focused events and sponsorships.
• Lead projects autonomously and work effectively in a large, matrixed organization.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Benefits

• Eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.
• Flexible work options, including working from home near a hub or from an office.

What This Job Offers

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