Earned Media Specialist

The Commonwealth Victory Fund is seeking earned media specialists through the November 7 election to support Democratic candidates in Virginia. Each specialist will provide communications support for multiple candidates, including building relationships with the candidates and key reporters, identifying and executing earned media opportunities, and drafting press releases and other materials as needed.

Candidates should be based anywhere in Virginia or within commuting distance of Richmond, VA; Arlington, VA; or Norfolk, VA.

People of color, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQI+ candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities include:

• Performing daily communications functions, including media monitoring; drafting press materials including advisories, press releases, statements, and op-eds; and preparing candidates and other spokespeople for media events
• Managing campaign media lists and developing relationships with key reporters
• Providing recommendations on proactive earned media opportunities and implementing them accordingly
• Identifying and executing rapid response opportunities, including pitching and interfacing directly with reporters and producers on behalf of the candidates
• Conceptualizing, organizing, and managing press events
• Serving as spokesperson for the campaign as needed
• Advising on strategy for the candidates’ social media platforms as it relates to getting press; for example, determining when it might make sense to share a statement or reach out to a reporter via social media
• Coordinating with campaigns, state legislative caucuses, partner organizations, and consultants on a regular basis
• Other duties as determined

Qualifications and requirements:

• 4-5 years of communications experience required, prior campaign experience preferred
• Work experience in or ties to states preferred, but not required
• Work experience in a state legislature or state legislative campaign preferred, but not required
• Strong writing and interpersonal skills, and comfort working in fast-paced environment
• Strong knowledge of the current media landscape, including a sense of what’s newsworthy, an understanding of a wide range of news outlets and journalists, and experience directly interacting with reporters
• Technical fluency with tools such as Google Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, and social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
• High level of organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and an ability to multitask
• A valid driver’s license is required

Position details: Full-time, beginning in August and ending mid-November
Salary: $6,500 per month

Send an email with “Earned Media Specialist” in the subject line to [email protected], and include a cover letter that references any relevant experience, resume, writing sample and three references. While applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, we will prioritize any applications received by July 14.