Director, Public Affairs
2 weeks ago
Director, Public Relations
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. The Director will work closely with internal teams, member companies, and external allies to elevate the organization's policy priorities and amplify its voice.
Specific responsibilities are described below.
Nature and Scope:
This position reports to the Senior Vice President, Communications, and supports the Communications division.
Principal Accountabilities:
1. 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 4. 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.
- 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, media, and grassroots.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree, preferably in communications, public policy, political science, or related field, or equivalent work experience.
- 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.
-
Senior Director Communications
7 days ago
Washington, DC, United States Republican Jobs Full timeSenior Communications Director | Government Relations & Public Affairs Firm | Washington, D.C. | #3488565A leading Government Relations & Public Affairs firm in Washington, D.C. is hiring a Senior Communications Director to drive strategic messaging, manage press engagement, and lead high-level communication efforts for corporate, advocacy, and governmental...
-
Senior Director Communications
1 week ago
Washington, DC, United States Republican Jobs Full timeSenior Communications Director | Government Relations & Public Affairs Firm | Washington, D.C. | #3488565A leading Government Relations & Public Affairs firm in Washington, D.C. is hiring a Senior Communications Director to drive strategic messaging, manage press engagement, and lead high-level communication efforts for corporate, advocacy, and governmental...
-
Associate Director, Public Affairs
7 days ago
Washington, DC, United States APCO Worldwide Full timeJob Description We have an immediate opportunity for an experienced international public affairs professional with strong expertise in policy analysis and advocacy, issues management, stakeholder engagement, client relationship development and project management. You will lead high-stakes client projects, manage key business relationships, develop and secure...
-
Associate Director, Public Affairs
1 week ago
Washington, DC, United States APCO Worldwide Full timeJob Description We have an immediate opportunity for an experienced international public affairs professional with strong expertise in policy analysis and advocacy, issues management, stakeholder engagement, client relationship development and project management. You will lead high-stakes client projects, manage key business relationships, develop and secure...
-
Associate Director, Public Affairs
3 days ago
Washington, DC, United States APCO Worldwide Full timeJob Description We have an immediate opportunity for an experienced international public affairs professional with strong expertise in policy analysis and advocacy, issues management, stakeholder engagement, client relationship development and project management. You will lead high-stakes client projects, manage key business relationships, develop and secure...
-
Associate Director, Public Affairs
3 days ago
Washington, DC, United States APCO Worldwide Full timeJob Description We have an immediate opportunity for an experienced international public affairs professional with strong expertise in policy analysis and advocacy, issues management, stakeholder engagement, client relationship development and project management. You will lead high-stakes client projects, manage key business relationships, develop and secure...
-
Director, Global Public
2 weeks ago
Washington, DC, United States Mondelez International Full timeJob Description Are You Ready to Make It Happen at Mondelez International? Join our Mission to Lead the Future of Snacking. Make It Matter. Mondelez International (Mondelez) empowers people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world. We are leading the future of snacking with iconic global and local brands such as Oreo , LU, Tate's Bake Shop, and...
-
Dean, School of Public Affairs
1 day ago
Washington, DC, United States American University Full timeAmerican University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University Department: Academic Affairs Time Type: Full time FLSA Status: Exempt Job Description:...
-
Dean, School of Public Affairs
3 days ago
Washington, DC, United States American University Full timeAmerican University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University Department: Academic Affairs Time Type: Full time FLSA Status: Exempt Job Description:...
-
Dean, School of Public Affairs
4 days ago
Washington, DC, United States American University Full timeAmerican University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University Department: Academic Affairs Time Type: Full time FLSA Status: Exempt Job Description:...
