The Communications Specialist is responsible for helping to plan and implement a wide variety of media activities to gain coverage for Defenders of Wildlife’s issues related to the organization’s mission.  In this role, the Communications Specialist’s primary responsibilities include developing and implementing media plans, drafting news releases, factsheets and other press materials and providing to members of the media. Interacting with members of the media and building relationships is also an integral responsibility. In addition to other activities as assigned by the Media Relations Director and/or Vice President for Communications.

Regular interdepartmental collaboration for determining media opportunities, deadlines and messaging priorities/materials is essential in this role.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Writing: Generate press releases, statements, talking points, advisories, factsheets, op-eds, letters to the editor, editorial board memos and other press materials
• Serve as a lead/central point of contact where there are media opportunities that span across several different beats, specifically in relation to Defenders’ Hill work, such as Interior Appropriations, NDAA, among others
• Media & Messaging Strategy: Work with program staff and Communications Team to develop and implement media plans
• Participate and represent Defenders on key coalition teams, collaborating with coalition partners in strategy, materials development and action
• Media relations: Establish working relationships with reporters in beat areas. Call and email reporters to pitch Defenders-related stories; field inquiries from the media and forward reporters’ questions to pertinent program staff members
• Research: Conduct research to develop talking points and other media relations and programmatic materials as needed
• Press events: Work with appropriate program staff to coordinate, execute and publicize press events, teleconferences, and other promotional activities
• Advertising: Develop strategies for advertising in relation for appropriate use within advocacy campaigns
• Develop messaging strategy, copy and manage design of advertisements; work with vendors to place advertisements
• Attend press briefings and activities and help prepare senior executives for interviews and media appearances
• General support: Collaborate with and support Communications Team colleagues in daily communications department work
• Perform all other work-related duties as assigned, including, but not limited to, coordinating focus groups, and polling. Collaborate with Defenders’ Conservation Program Teams and Marketing Team for seamless communications across all forms of Defenders of Wildlife Communications including but not limited to publications and reports, press materials, social media, website and other outreach, etc
• Supervisory Roles: When applicable, supervise seasonal Interns. Review candidate resumes conduct interviews, work with Communications Team to coordinate projects, roles and responsibilities