Senior Associate, Corporate & Public Affairs (Hybrid - DC)

Weber Shandwick; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 59,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Weber Shandwick in Washington, D.C. is seeking a Senior Associate to join the Corporate & Public Affairs team on a hybrid schedule. You will help develop communications and reputation strategies for clients at the intersection of business, policy, media, and culture.

The role emphasizes hands-on execution from planning through delivery, with opportunities to grow in corporate positioning, public affairs strategy, and media relations while supporting clients in regulated industries.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience in corporate communications or related field (agency, in-house, Capitol Hill, campaigns, trade associations, or newsrooms).
• Strong understanding of national media landscape, particularly business, political, and policy outlets.
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills; translate complex issues clearly.
• Interest in intersection of business, policy, media and culture.
• Comfort using AI tools for research, monitoring, and drafting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and media databases/monitoring tools.
• Curiosity and cultural acumen: understand how developments affect one another.
• Analytical mindset: synthesize research into actionable recommendations.
• Detail-oriented with deadlines.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
• Collaboration and communication in an integrated team.
• Judgment and growth orientation.

Responsibilities

• Content Development: Write press releases, statements, messaging frameworks, talking points, op-eds, and social media copy tailored for different audiences.
• Media Relations & Strategy: Build targeted media lists across national, business, policy, trade and local outlets; pitch reporters; prepare spokespeople for interviews.
• Corporate Communications: Support planning and execution of corporate announcements, positioning and reputation programs, including leadership transitions.
• Public Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement: Map and support outreach to policymakers, industry groups, advocates, and community leaders.
• Research & Intelligence: Conduct in-depth research and synthesize data into insights on industry trends, policy developments, competitors, and media coverage.
• Executive Communications: Vet opportunities and prepare briefing books and interview materials for client leaders.
• Monitoring & Analysis: Track developments and turn them into reports with strategic implications.
• Client Experience & Account Support: Keep workstreams on track with agendas, notes, and timelines; be a day-to-day resource.

Skills

Strong writing

Media relations

Public affairs

Collaboration

Analytical thinking

Detail-oriented

Agility

Communication

Growth mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree (relevant field)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Media monitoring tools

Job description

Weber Shandwick in Washington, D.C. is seeking a Senior Associate to join the Corporate & Public Affairs team on a hybrid schedule. You will help develop communications and reputation strategies for clients at the intersection of business, policy, media, and culture.

The role emphasizes hands-on execution from planning through delivery, with opportunities to grow in corporate positioning, public affairs strategy, and media relations while supporting clients in regulated industries.