Senior Public Relations Specialist

$135,000 - $150,000/Yr

Aptive Corp - Washington, DC

Full-time - Senior

Washington, DC

About the position

Aptive is seeking a Senior Public Relations Specialist to lead the execution of public relations efforts for a federal client, specifically focusing on IT-related communications strategies and services. The ideal candidate will possess comprehensive experience in leading large-scale communications campaigns, particularly for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and/or within the IT industry. This role requires the Public Relations Specialist to serve as the technical expert in both internal and external communications strategy development, planning, and execution within the VA. The candidate should have extensive knowledge of local and national media channels and points of contact, enabling them to effectively navigate the media landscape. In this position, the Senior Public Relations Specialist will collaborate closely with the VA Office of Technology (OIT) to provide expert recommendations for media strategies aimed at achieving desired outcomes. The role demands a self-starter who is a proactive problem-solver and an action-oriented team player. The candidate must be committed to delivering superior service, maintaining composure in a fast-paced environment, and exhibiting a positive and flexible attitude. This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC, with the potential for remote work contingent upon client approval. Some travel to events may be required, and it is important to note that this is a contingent hire position. The expected compensation for this role ranges from $135,000 to $150,000, which includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with additional benefits such as 401(k), disability insurance, and paid time off.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary liaison between the VA OIT and media points of contact to foster relationships.
• Develop and manage a robust public affairs program; responsible for planning, designing and executing all program activities to inform and educate the general and specialized public groups regarding programs, activities, issues and services.
• Provide recommendations on how to be proactive with a robust media outreach approach.
• Plan, direct and execute campaigns to convey complex information concerning OIT.
• Support monthly media pitches to national publications and high-profile IT and government trade publications.
• Provide analysis of and recommendations for OIT-related media coverage.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with members of the media and other specialized groups.
• Continuously monitor all relevant news sites and social media platforms OIT-related topics.
• Develop new products as well as review and copyedit existing products supplied by the client.
• Conduct assessments of existing communications and marketing plans and perform research to inform the development of new plans and products.
• Oversee the development of strategic communications as coordinated products such as websites, print products, podcasts, social media, newsletters and infographics.
• Write, edit and improve briefing tools (e.g., presentations, talking points, reports, information papers, email, newsletters, articles) designed to communicate complex material to a non-technical audience.
• Interface with and support government clients, including senior executives.

Requirements

• 6 years of experience in public relations.
• BS/BA degree in public relations, or a related field of study.
• Experience drafting communications plans and policies, templates and style guides and digital communications.
• Experience with implementing proven successful communications campaigns in an integrated health care setting.
• Experience providing expert advice related to strategic communications for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Extensive knowledge of local and national media channels and points of contact.
• Insight into IT industry media outlets and contacts.
• Authorized to work in the U.S.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a public trust clearance.

Nice-to-haves

• Demonstrated management and leadership skills.
• Experience supporting federal government clients.
• Ability to get up to speed quickly on complex issues; desire to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment.
• Capable self-starter with a drive to get all types of work done and high attention to details.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Outstanding written and verbal communications skills.
• Good time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work well within a team environment.
• Ability to carry out multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Active VA PIV card is preferred.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance