Vice President, Communications

The Vice President of Communications is a proactive leader with strong strategic, writing, and project management skills, and is responsible for public relations, media relations, stakeholder engagement, brand positioning, messaging, budget, and making communications a robust element of the organization.

Do you have the following skills, experience and drive to succeed in this role Find out below.

Arlington, VA preferred, possibility for full-time remote working option for strong candidates)

Perform all job responsibilities in a manner consistent with the USDEC Way :

• Works as a team member, recognizing that USDEC wins and loses together
• Respects and values colleagues. This includes considering roles, responsibilities, work styles, perspectives, and experience
• Trusts others as professionals working towards the same objectives & goals
• Communicates respectfully, inclusively, clearly, and in a timely manner
• Acknowledges, celebrates, and rewards good work and contributions
• Supports and creates opportunities for individual learning, growth, and mentorship
• Fosters an environment of trust where people can share new ideas, innovate, take risks, and learn from failure
• Creates a safe environment that will empower the voicing of concerns and viewpoints

Key Responsibilities

• Working with the SVP to develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with the organization’s goals and objectives, promoting our mission, values, and initiatives to a wide range of stakeholders.
• Serve as the organization’s primary spokesperson, managing all media contacts and opportunities. Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers in the agricultural and trade press to enhance visibility and positive media coverage.
• Manage budgets, vendors, and consultants.
• Lead public relations efforts to shape public opinion and policy decisions affecting the agricultural sector. Coordinate advocacy communications, campaigns, and events to advance the association's legislative and regulatory priorities.
• Ensure clear and consistent communication within the organization. Develop internal communications strategies to keep staff informed and engaged with the association's goals and initiatives.
• Partner with other department VPs to collect and disseminate internal and external communications on behalf of the Executive Office.
• Manage crisis communication planning and response, ensuring timely, accurate, and effective messaging during sensitive situations or emergencies.
• Oversee the association's digital communication efforts, including website content, social media strategy, and email marketing, to engage with members, stakeholders, and the public.
• Direct the creation of compelling content across various platforms, including press releases, op-eds, newsletters, reports, and presentations, to effectively communicate the association's message.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies and initiatives, using metrics and feedback to adjust plans and tactics accordingly.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree, and Master's degree in communications / public relations is preferred
• Minimum of 10-15 years of experience in communications or public relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in agriculture and / or food sector or a related industry is preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Experience in creating and managing communication plans.
• Strong media relations skills with an established network of media contacts in the agriculture or trade press.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex issues clearly and persuasively.
• Proven ability to develop and implement successful communications strategies and campaigns.
• Experience managing crisis communications and navigating sensitive issues.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, with a history of mentoring and developing teams.
• Knowledge of digital communications strategies and platforms.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners and stakeholders.
• Growth mindset

Competitive medical, dental, and life insurance benefits as well as ample paid time away (vacation, personal, sick, and company holidays).

Generous 401(k), and collaborative culture.

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