Eastern Forests Communications Director

Qualifications
The Wilderness Society, a national non-profit membership organization devoted to preserving wilderness and wildlife, seeks a highly creative and skilled communications specialist to join its high-profile communications team in support of our Eastern Forest Program. This is a senior position on the team and reports directly to the VP of Communications.

The ideal candidate has significant experience in advocacy, campaign, environment, and/or political communications work, outstanding strategic instincts, excellent writing skills, a proven track record of successful media relations and broader communications initiatives for a diverse array of audiences, and a love of challenge. Knowledge of legislative process/public affairs is helpful; experience with environmental, public lands and/or forestry issues is desirable. A strong interest in environmental issues is essential. The ability to lead initiatives, juggle competing priorities and work effectively within teams and coalitions is important.

The position is fast-paced and challenging, and offers a wealth of opportunity to increase and diversify skills and experience, exercise leadership and fuel creativity. Some travel is required.

Responsibilities
Lead and actively direct communications efforts in support of The Societys campaigns to protect forests, wilderness lands and wildlife as part of our Eastern Forest Program, including:

• Develop and execute Eastern Forest communications campaign and strategy; message research and development, and campaign planning;  
• Work closely with coalitions and help to lead coalition communications and strategy efforts;  
• Work closely with local and regional partners on strategic advice, message work, and general grassroots assistance;  
• Work to strategically leverage TWS resources, especially our original science and analysis;  
• Manage budgets for applicable program communications efforts;  
• Assist TWS staff with media outreach, and work to handle breaking news and develop future story concepts;  
• Craft a variety of messages and media outreach materials for a diverse range of audiences including op-eds, press releases, brochures, and briefing packages for print and broadcast media;  
• Initiate and maintain excellent working relationships with key members of the media as well as effectively reaching out to new media audiences;  
• Produce and manage media events such as press conferences, reporter conference calls, and one-on-one interviews;  
• Coordinate with TWS staff and outside consultants/vendors in support of assigned programs.

We offer a very competitive salary and benefits package, including health and dental insurance and a pension plan. The Wilderness Society is an equal opportunity employer and actively works to ensure fair and equal treatment of its employees and constituents regardless of differences based on culture, socioeconomic status, race, marital or family situation, gender, age, ethnicity, religious beliefs, physical ability, or sexual orientation.

Submit resume, cover letter, writing samples and references to:

Vera Lochan
Regional Conservation
The Wilderness Society
1615 M St., NW
Washington D.C. 20036
No phone calls, please