Director of Communications

Job Description

The Washington Post is seeking a Director of Communications to join its Public Relations team. This team of publicists and publicity coordinators drives external promotion of The Post's brand at a time of rapid growth for the company. The PR team works with reporters and editors across the newsroom to extend the reach of Post reporting through broadcast and digital earned media and serves as a strategic partner with business stakeholders to promote company initiatives to key audiences. As the Director of Communications, you will oversee the daily operations of the PR team and manage the team's communications managers, working closely with them to develop effective, multilayered strategies for major initiatives that elevate The Post's brand and talent with key audiences. You'll also collaborate closely with team leadership on brand strategy to ensure consistent visibility for the brand in the media industry and on crisis communications as needed. The position reports to the Vice President of Communications.

MOTIVATION

• You have a passion for news media and are a regular consumer of news.
• You are a practiced storyteller and can mine different areas of the company for brand storytelling opportunities.
• You value world-class journalism and are eager to immerse yourself in features and projects that support that mission.
• You see the potential in your colleagues and, as a manager, want to help them grow and succeed.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identify, champion, execute and measure effectiveness of dynamic PR strategies to support all facets of the business, including engineering, sales, product and news.
• Develop and manage communications managers, providing feedback, coaching and motivation to engage and retain talent.
• Contribute to internal communication plans and messaging in support of the brand vision, key strategic initiatives and business priorities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and to mobilize large-scale projects and initiatives.
• Maintain close and communicative relationships with industry/beat reporters and contacts at key industry conferences.
• Respond to media inquiries and actively assist/facilitate staff interactions with the media, even on tight deadlines.
• Evaluate media coverage and embrace data analysis to spot trends that can inform the team's strategy.
• Other duties and special projects as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Exceptional news judgment, communication and interpersonal skills, including writing, proofreading and speaking.
• Ability to establish rapport and develop credibility from colleagues and external business partners.
• Previous experience managing teams required.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Careful attention to detail with strong follow-through.
• Strategic, collaborative and creative thinker who can adapt and prioritize moment to moment.
• Self-motivated with strong decision-making skills.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, Outlook, Cision or related journalist database.
• Bachelor's Degree is required
• At least 10 years of related work experience.

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
• Company-paid pension and 401(k) match
• Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave
• Nine paid holidays and two personal days
• 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent
• Robust mental health resources
• Backup care and caregiver concierge services
• Gender affirming services
• Pet insurance
• Free Post digital subscription
• Leadership and career development programs

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed.

The innovation doesn't end in the Newsroom - dozens of teams power The Washington Post. We are now hiring the next innovator - how will you Impact Tomorrow?

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