Director, Public Affairs

Title Director of Public Affairs Pay Range Base pay: $130,000.00/yr - $150,000.00/yr (as provided by Association of American Railroads) Basic Function The Association of American Railroads (AAR), the world’s leading railroad policy, research, standard-setting, and technology organization, is focused on enhancing the safety and productivity of the U.S. freight rail industry. The Director of Public Affairs will play a key leadership role in supporting the execution of integrated advocacy, media, and mobilization strategies. This role is ideal for a strategic communicator and coalition builder who can manage multiple workstreams across media relations, external, state affairs, digital advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning. Nature and Scope This position reports to the Senior Vice President, Communications, and supports the Communications division. Principal Accountabilities External & State Relations Contribute to policy and regulatory commentary and help draft letters/filings in coordination with government affairs, legal, and field teams, as well as consultants. Monitor legislative and regulatory developments at the state and federal levels and support stakeholder engagement activities. Assist in planning and executing the Annual State Relations Meeting and support select state-level engagements. Coalition & Stakeholder Engagement Coordinate with allied organizations such as CABT and GoRail to drive coalition messaging and actions. Cultivate relationships with external partners (think tanks, advocacy groups, industry trade associations, etc.), associates/affiliates, and advocacy groups. Manage and update grassroots and partner engagement databases. Advocacy Planning & Strategic Projects Support the development of advocacy plans and issue‑specific campaigns. Track progress toward campaign goals, report results, and help refine tactics based on feedback and performance. Assist with executive testimony preparation, speeches, and issue‑driven op‑eds or statements. Media Relations & Executive Communications Support the Media Relations team by contributing to story development, media monitoring insights, and brainstorming sessions that align with strategic communications goals. Draft and edit morning news and action memos, talking points, press materials, and support the SVP and CEO/executive messaging efforts. Collaborate on identifying media opportunities and support the development of regular story ideas that align with advocacy campaigns. Strategic Content & Digital Support Collaborate with the digital team to develop advocacy one‑pagers, fact sheets, and online assets for campaigns. Support the development and execution of ally campaigns using association digital platforms. Help translate complex issues into accessible content for a variety of audiences, including policymakers, the media, and grassroots groups. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree, preferably in communications, public policy, political science, or related field. Minimum 5 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, strategic communications, or a related field. Proven success in developing and executing media and advocacy strategies. Strong writing, editing, and content development skills for multiple audiences. Experience working in or with coalitions, trade associations, and/or issue advocacy campaigns. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively across teams. Familiarity with digital advocacy tools and database systems is a plus. Strategic thinker with a bias toward action and outcomes. Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and adept at project management. Team player who brings creativity, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit. Strong political and policy instincts, with a pulse on national and state‑level developments. Preferred Attributes Experience with coalition messaging and orchestration across multiple advocacy partners. Demonstrated ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. Proficiency in utilizing digital advocacy platforms and data analytics tools. Strong network within state and federal policy circles. #J-18808-Ljbffr