Associate Director

Breakwater Strategy; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A strategic insights and communications agency is looking for an experienced professional to act as a key strategic advisor to clients across multiple industries. This role entails developing and executing communications strategies while managing client relationships. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong project management skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor junior staff. This position offers an exciting opportunity in a fast-paced environment focused on achieving business objectives across diverse sectors.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of relevant experience in strategic communications, public affairs, public policy, or management consulting.
• Exceptional strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to translate complex issues into clear narratives.
• Experience managing multiple client relationships and leading cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for clients.
• Develop and execute strategic communications plans and messaging frameworks.
• Mentor and coach junior staff to support professional development.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Project management

Writing skills

Presentation skills

Client relationship management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree

Job description

Breakwater Strategy, a strategic insights and communications agency, is seeking an experienced professional to join our growing team of strategists. The ideal candidate will serve as a key strategic advisor to clients across multiple industries, helping them develop and execute effective communications strategies to achieve their business objectives.

We are looking for a strategic thinker who demonstrates professional maturity, possesses strong project management skills, and can deliver strategic insights and advice to clients. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, embraces debate, stays current with industry and policy trends, and is ready to lead client teams with precision and excellence.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for clients, managing day-to-day relationships while delivering strategic insights and optimizing team strengths to meet client needs
• Proactively identify and respond to client needs, taking ownership and accountability for deliverables
• Coordinate and facilitate internal and client activities as a key team leader
• Oversee the timely, precise production of client deliverables while thinking ahead and communicating next steps to teams
• Develop and execute strategic communications plans, messaging frameworks, and thought leadership initiatives
• Test assumptions and contribute to internal debate on client challenges and needs
• Lead the development of media strategies including pitch angles and reporter targets
• Provide mentorship and coaching to junior staff, supporting their professional development

ATTRIBUTES

• 5-10 years of relevant experience in strategic communications, public affairs, public policy or management consulting
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree a plus
• Exceptional strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to translate complex issues into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences
• Strong writing and presentation skills, with attention to detail and precision
• Experience managing multiple client relationships and leading cross-functional teams
• Demonstrated ability to think critically and question conventional thinking
• Proactive approach to staying informed on relevant industry news, trends, and developments
• Capacity to build and cultivate relationships with peers across a broad stakeholder audience
• Ability to lead entire workstreams, managing both up and down effectively
• Identifies and communicates to leadership new business opportunities that build on current client work
• A collaborative mindset with a commitment to fostering a supportive team environment