Airlines for America Hiring for Manager, Communications at Washington DC-Baltimore Area Full Time

JOB OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT

 

Job #: 24-03

TITLE: Manager, Communications                                                                     Date: February 05, 2024  

REPORTS TO: Sr. Vice President, Communications                                           GRADE: EXEMPT

DEPARTMENT/DIVISION: Communications

                                                                                                                                                    

 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Manage communications initiatives—both proactive and reactive—working to promote the U.S. airline industry and A4A member carriers. This includes, but is not limited to, effective media relations, rapid response, executive communications, and third-party relationships such as industry partners, members of the media, consultants, vendors and others. The role consists of a wide range of duties including media monitoring; writing (press releases, speeches, presentations, blogs, editorial pieces, membership communications, etc.); editing (testimony, letters, membership communications, etc.); development of messaging; preparing general communications materials and live events; and some social media monitoring and development. Must be a strategic thinker who is a strong, confident writer and can process a range of issues quickly while working collaboratively with subject matter experts.

 

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in shaping statements and media responses regarding complex issues including but not limited to: safety and security, operations, workforce, sustainability and other industry initiatives.
• Respond promptly, accurately and efficiently to media inquiries, serving as an official spokesperson for the association. This can require being accessible after business hours, on weekends and on holidays.

·        Build and maintain positive relationships with members of the media and communications counterparts representing industry partners.

• Identify opportunities to generate positive media coverage and maximize reach of data, research and other resources to help advance the association’s legislative and regulatory priorities.
• Utilize a range of communications initiatives including but not limited to earned media, owned media, social media and paid media.

·        Proofread and edit documents including letters, presentations and op-eds.

• Stay current on news coverage; promptly identify emerging consumer, business, operations, safety and security issues; and demonstrate leadership in preparing for anticipated news cycles.
• Have (or gain) a working familiarity of aviation issues and nomenclature; have (or gain) knowledge and comfortability with industry media and other relevant media representatives.

·        Produce newsletters and other materials for member carriers, media and additional groups highlighting key industry issues as well as A4A initiatives and accomplishments.

• Provide constructive support for executive communications (including senior management) in the development of speeches, PowerPoint presentations and other initiatives.
• Offer disciplined counsel and thought leadership for speaking engagements and conference opportunities for senior management; identify ways to promote those events.

·        Perform other duties and responsibilities as needed.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

·        Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or relevant field.

·        Proven communicator with 3-5+ years of experience including media relations, writing and editing.

·        Write and speak in a direct, concise manner.

·        Ability to quickly and accurately process and explain complex issues.

·        Enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and following the news cycle closely.

·        Must be a self-starter who works well with others; must think critically, strategically and creatively.

·        Should be a natural team player who enjoys working with people from a wide range of organizations.

·        Should have a strong understanding of the intersection of policy, legislation, regulation and communications.

·        Needs to have a solid understanding of social media and comfortability using it as a communications tool.

·        Previous communications experience in the airline industry, relevant regulatory agencies, government offices or in the media is preferred but not required.

·        Should have strong proficiency with Microsoft Office (or be willing to learn it).

·        Be highly organized, professional and willing to go the extra mile.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• All A4A employees must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
• If approved by department supervisor, A4A employees have the option to work from home on Mondays and Fridays. All employees are expected to work in the office Tuesdays through Thursdays.  

 

COMPETITIVE BENEFITS:

Choice of medical plans, plus free life, dental and vision coverage. 401(k) with matching contributions, airline travel privileges, tuition reimbursement plan, 12 weeks fully paid parental leave.

 

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested applicants please send cover letter, resume and salary requirements to [email protected] attention JOA #24-03.

 

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