Strategic Media Relations Lead

Atlantic Council Of The U S; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 72,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

403(b) plan

FSA options

Pet insurance

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The Atlantic Council seeks an entrepreneurial, highly organized Associate Director to drive a proactive media relations function in a fast-paced global policy environment. You will elevate experts, research, events, and priorities through strategic media outreach and rapid-response communications.

The role requires strong writing, editor‑level skills, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines while coordinating across programs, centers, Editorial, Social, Digital, and Events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, international relations, political science, public policy or related field.
• Approximately 3–6 years of relevant experience in media relations, journalism, strategic communications, public affairs, public policy communications, or related field.
• Demonstrated understanding of national and international media landscape across print, digital, broadcast, podcasts, newsletters, and opinion media.
• Proven ability to develop clear media angles and translate complex policy issues into timely, journalist-friendly pitches.
• Strong writing, editing, and communication skills with attention to detail and editorial judgment.
• Experience pitching reporters, producers, bookers, editors, or opinion editors.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead media promotion for general Atlantic Council events with cross-functional coordination.
• Develop and execute media outreach plans for events and identify target reporters.
• Support press RSVPs, media logistics, and outreach with the Program Assistant.
• Use media databases to identify reporters and build targeted outreach lists.
• Track outreach and follow-up with journalists as appropriate.
• Build and send rapid-response media products and ensure timely coordination with Editorial.

Skills

Media relations

Writing

Editing

Project management

Reporter outreach

Education

Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, public relations, international relations, political science, public policy

Tools

Muck Rack

Cision

Meltwater

HubSpot

Brand24

Monday.com

Job description

The Atlantic Council seeks an entrepreneurial, highly organized Associate Director to drive a proactive media relations function in a fast-paced global policy environment. You will elevate experts, research, events, and priorities through strategic media outreach and rapid-response communications.

The role requires strong writing, editor‑level skills, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines while coordinating across programs, centers, Editorial, Social, Digital, and Events.