Job Description:
Emilia Sykes for Congress seeks a Communications & Outreach Director to design, manage, implement and execute the communications and political outreach programs in OH-13. The ideal candidate will have a collaborative approach to problem solving, a strategic mind, and the ability to lead and inspire a diverse group of stakeholders, organizers, and volunteers. This role reports directly to the Campaign Manager and is based in Summit & Stark County, OH.
Job Responsibilities:
Communications
Work closely with the Campaign Manager to develop and execute an earned media and communications strategy that supports the campaign’s overall goals.
Build and maintain relationships with members of the local and national press, pitching stories, responding to inquiries, and arranging interviews.
Drafting and editing written materials such as press releases, talking points, remarks, op-eds, and additional external and internal communication materials as needed.
Draft copy and creative for social media posts.
Monitor breaking news and social media to identify opportunities to accomplish Emilia Sykes for Congress’ message goals.
Help prepare the candidate and campaign representatives for media interviews, debates, and public appearances, including conducting media training sessions.
Booking and staffing the Candidate for interviews along with preparing and executing earned media events from beginning to end – including advancing events when necessary.
Developing and implementing overarching communications strategy, plans and ensuring message continuity across all areas of communication programs.
Ensuring the day-to-day press needs of the campaign – press releases, clips, talking points, speeches, rapid response – are met.
Oversee email fundraising program including drafting copy and creative for email and peer-to-peer text outreach.
Outreach
Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, activists, elected officials, impactful grasstops leaders, and partner organizations.
Represent the campaign at meetings with partner organizations.
Plan, craft, and organize the campaign’s key coalition groups for in-person and virtual events, earned media opportunities, and paid communications.
Collaborate and coordinate across departments on events, messaging, and programming.
Assist with the planning and execution of events and meetings, specifically coordinating logistics.
Stay informed about local, state, and national political issues and trends.
Assist with administrative tasks for the department including keeping lists updated, drafting memos, assisting with outreach and notifications to stakeholders, and assisting with writing public facing materials on behalf of the department.
Qualifications:
At least 2 years of communications experience on campaigns or in similar environments (government office, businesses or nonprofits) required, experience in Ohio is a strong plus.
Deep commitment to the Democratic Party and our platform, with a commitment to expanding our supporter base.
Ability to work with diverse constituencies, communities, and perspectives, including an ability to facilitate coalition efforts to build consensus.
Experience building political plans that mobilize external partners with data-driven deliverables.
Experience talking directly with reporters on behalf of campaigns or other organizations.
Experience managing social media accounts and generating engaging content.
Experience planning and executing campaign events, including press conferences, town halls, and other media availabilities.
Experience drafting and editing written materials such as press releases, talking points, remarks, op-eds, and additional external and internal communication materials as needed.
Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment.
Excellent time management skills, attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
The position will be based in Northeast Ohio. Applicants must be located or relocate to the district.
Must have reliable transportation and a computer.