Public Affairs Communications Manager
New York, NY

Responsible for leading strategic communications initiatives that support public policy and business objectives across the United States. This role serves as a key driver of external communications efforts, including media relations, policy campaigns, and stakeholder engagement at the state and local level. The position blends communications strategy, media engagement, and cross-functional collaboration in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Success in this role requires strong storytelling ability, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple communications initiatives simultaneously while adapting to evolving policy landscapes.

Experience Requirements
• 8+ years of experience in public relations or communications
• Bachelor's degree
• Experience working on public policy issues within a technology company and/or government environment

Team & Function Overview
• Supports policy communications and external affairs initiatives across U.S. markets
• Focuses on advancing policy and business objectives through strategic communications
• Works closely with public policy teams and cross-functional stakeholders
• Engages with media, policymakers, and external influencers
• Role created to provide coverage during a defined parental leave period

Core Responsibilities
• Develop and manage external communications programs and events aligned with state-level policy goals
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional media
• Create and execute communications campaigns to educate policymakers and media on relevant policy issues
• Provide communications counsel to public policy stakeholders on both short- and long-term initiatives
• Lead execution of events, including press briefings, press conferences, media tours, and industry engagements
• Support development of content across multiple formats, including opinion pieces, blog posts, and digital/print materials
• Manage inbound media inquiries and serve as a key point of contact for press-related matters
• Drive issues management efforts and provide communications support during high-priority or sensitive situations

Work Environment
• Based in Arlington, VA or New York, NY
• Full-time contract role (April through October 2026)
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with multiple concurrent priorities
• Requires collaboration across teams and stakeholders in different locations

Must-Have Skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proven experience in media relations and communications strategy
• Ability to manage communications campaigns across multiple regions or jurisdictions
• Experience working under tight deadlines and delivering results
• Strong stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Ability to handle complex or sensitive issues with sound judgment
• Experience serving as an on-the-record spokesperson

Nice-to-Have Skills
• Experience managing communications on complex public policy issues
• Familiarity with legislative processes
• Experience working with policy reporters
• Ability to dive deep into policy topics and translate them into clear messaging
• Experience managing multi-team initiatives

What Makes This Role Interesting
• Opportunity to lead high-impact communications campaigns tied to public policy initiatives
• Direct engagement with media, policymakers, and influential stakeholders
• Exposure to complex, real-world policy issues across multiple jurisdictions
• Hands-on experience managing events, messaging, and crisis communications
• High visibility role supporting strategic business and policy objectives

Ideal Candidate Profile
• Experienced communications professional with a strong background in public relations and policy-related work
• Skilled in media relations, storytelling, and campaign execution
• Comfortable navigating complex policy topics and translating them into clear, compelling messaging
• Strong collaborator who can influence across multiple teams and stakeholders
• Able to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
• Demonstrates sound judgment, adaptability, and a results-driven mindset

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