Who We Are
We believe it is self-evident that all people are created equal, with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness – and that government secures these rights with the consent of the governed. We call this the American Promise.
To achieve the American Promise requires effective government, fair markets, personal freedom, and representative democracy – and it starts, as the Declaration of Independence itself did, with the states.
Future Now is an effort to achieve the American Promise in states with high-impact interventions. The Future Now family includes initiatives such as The States Project and The States Forum.
The States Project builds power for state lawmakers – the most important policymakers in the country – to improve lives. ** **Everything we care about starts in state legislatures, including abortion access, good schools, affordable healthcare, and clean air and water.
The States Forum is building a network of thinkers and practitioners from across the country who are working on solutions to today’s most pressing issues. Our goal is to foster, develop, and refine innovative policy solutions in the states.
The Opportunity
As the Head of Strategic Communications you will spearhead efforts to amplify Future Now’s mission through strategic initiatives that enhance our visibility. You will manage, develop, and implement effective media relations and communications strategies to increase press for our work and leverage our brand in the effort to support lawmakers and candidates with earned media.
This position reports directly to the Chief Strategy Officer and manages a team of external consultants. The successful candidate will have a strong background in political communications, the ability to successfully manage a variety of stakeholders, and deep experience developing thoughtful communications narratives and securing press coverage.
Principal activities will include but not be limited to:
Strategic Communications
Develop communications strategies that advance organizational objectives and expand the organization’s reach and brand
Provide strategic guidance, counsel, and training to organizational leaders regarding communications and media opportunities
Advise and execute on rapid response communications with organizational leadership
Oversee public opinion polling partnerships to ensure data guides our decisions each step of the way
Provide communications reviews as needed on public materials to ensure brand consistency and protection
Identify and oversee the execution of strategies to leverage press and advance initiatives’ missions
Press Strategy
Develop and drive a robust earned media plan that translates strategies into well-designed, compelling pitches that lead to placements in strategic outlets
Manage, develop, and implement media relations strategies to advance initiatives priorities, working collaboratively with communications, growth, programs, and legal teams
Provide effective stewardship of The States Forum and The States Project in the media as an on-the-record spokesperson
Manage external press consultants to further the organization’s earned media objectives
Develop and strengthen relationships with key reporters
Create materials including, briefing materials, press releases, and talking points
Secure positive coverage of and media placements for initiatives, principals, and surrogates
Ability to develop quick pitches in response to breaking news
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience
At least 8 years of progressively responsible professional experience in politics, non-profits, policy, or government, including at least five years serving in a senior-level capacity
Deep political communications expertise with a keen understanding of complex political environments and campaign communications
Self-starter with a drive to make things happen and a “no job too small” mindset
Proven track record of program management excellence and high standards for success
Results-oriented with a proven ability to perform well under pressure and excellent judgment
Experience speaking with the media on and off the record
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
Exceptional writing and verbal communication skills
Proven ability to develop and maintain trusting relationships with a variety of stakeholders
Experience managing teams, including consultants
Ability to distinguish important from urgent in highly complex and fast-moving environments
Capable of independently managing time and tasks associated with a fast-paced organization
Benefits
The position offers a competitive benefits package. Benefits currently offered include 75% paid coverage of medical, dental, and vision for individuals and dependents, basic life insurance, an employee assistance program, unlimited PTO, 401(k) matching, annual professional development, wellness, and work-from-home stipends, and paid family leave.
Compensation
Salary offers are made based on the market rate and the candidate's demonstrated level of proficiency, experience, and credentials.
*The pay rate or range noted for this position is in compliance with the District of Columbia Wage Transparency Omnibus Amendment Act of 2023, NYC’s Pay Transparency Act, and other state and local laws.
Future Now does not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Future Now values diversity and strongly encourages women, individuals with different ethnic and racial backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, abilities, religious beliefs, and military backgrounds to apply.
Future Now complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact People & Culture. Any application materials received via email will not be considered.