The Director of Media Strategy & Campaigns reports to the Managing Director of Communications & External Affairs partners with colleagues across Vera Institute and Vera Action to conceive and implement strategic campaigns, owns Vera’s consistent presence in high-profile media and targeted local and regional outlets, shapes the Institute’s messaging, and influences public conversation on Vera’s issues.
Strategy development
Set and execute media strategy to advance Vera Institute and Vera Action’s priorities
Strengthen a rapid response operation to activate around newsworthy moments on Vera’s issues
Track daily media coverage and public sentiment on Vera Institute and Vera Action’s issues to continuously inform and shape campaign strategies
Messaging development
Lead the drafting of talking points and messaging framework on Vera’s priority issues and campaigns
Oversee the development and distribution of talking points, press releases, pitches, memos, background briefings, fact sheets and other materials
Partner with colleagues in Advocacy, Research, and Initiatives to build overall media and communications strategy
Ensure staff are prepared for media and public appearances via formal media training and informal prep sessions
Media relations
Cultivate, maintain, and expand relationships with journalists, producers, bloggers, and other influential media figures who regularly cover criminal justice and immigration issues
Qualification
Advanced degree a plusKnowledgeAbility to work under tight deadlines
Preferred
Advanced degree a plus. In lieu of degree requirement, applicable work or life experience may be considered. Experience should include media, journalism, or public relations work, including significant experience supervising and managing media relations personnel as a director.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities you'll bring:
Ability to work under tight deadlines, draft near-final copy, and adept at being able to adjust effectively in a fast-changing work environment.
Excellent writer and communicator who can adeptly distill research into public facing messages and take storytelling to the next level
Please note this role will report to our Brooklyn, NY office. Vera employees adhere to a hybrid schedule and are in-office on an alternating schedule that generally amounts to 10 days per month.
