Communications Director for Leading Medical Marijuana Advocacy Group

Communications Director for Leading Medical Marijuana Advocacy Group

Location: Washington, D.C.

Americans for Safe Access is seeking an experienced, highly-skilled communications director to serve as a member of the management team.  S/he will be responsible for the development, integration and implementation of comprehensive marketing, communications and public relations plans that enhance the organization’s mission.  The ideal candidate is a strategic, creative and dynamic storyteller who can work in a high-paced environment. Candidates must have an energetic, can-do attitude.

Specific Tasks and Responsibilities:

Website and online management:

• Maintain social media accounts with multiple daily updates
• Maintain and update Facebook advertising campaign
• Develop and implement strategies to increase website traffic and social media contacts
• Maintain ASA blog with multiple posts per week, including sourcing, editing, and writing posts
• Assist with website content creation and dissemination
• Maintain press sections of the website

Supporter, membership, and outreach management:

• Draft, copy-edit and proofread membership and campaign materials, as needed
• Draft action alerts and email blasts
• Work with chapters, affiliates and sponsors for cross-promotion
• Work closely with management team on special projects and campaigns
• Work with activists, bloggers and alternative media to promote and disseminate ASA’s content  

Press mangement:

• Draft, copy-edit and proofread multiple press releases, statements, blogs and advisories per week
• Respond to reporter inquiries
• Develop relationships with key media to secure and grow media coverage both online and offline
• Blogger outreach (recruit & pitch)
• Create and maintain media contact databases
• Assist with logistics for press events, including coordination with outside vendors
• Create and maintain press kits
• Monitor mainstream and alternative media for relevant articles
• Create and maintain AFI lists
• Coordinate with elected and ally press staff
• Work closely with Executive Director to place blog posts and op-eds from ASA

Strategic messaging:

• Manage strategic press and media strategy to bring ASA messaging to new relevant audiences
• Produce daily press clippings and host strategy calls with management staff
• Develop internal and external talking points
• Implement communications plans to increase brand awareness and recognition for the organization
• Work with management team members to develop strategic media plans

Experience and Qualifications:

• A commitment to the mission and goals of Americans for Safe Access
• Excellent written and oral communications skills with impeccable attention to detail
• Experience or aptitude for writing swiftly, concisely, and accurately on tight deadlines
• On-the-record experience
• Experience editing (including proofreading and copyediting) and writing for a variety of audiences
• At least two (2) years of experience as a reporter/journalist or working in press operation for a federal or state elected official, on a political campaign, at a public relations firm, an advocacy organization or in a rapid response/oppositional research environment
• A copious consumer of news with passion, creativity, and ambition to engage in breaking news opportunities
• Ability to work with internal teams and external contributors, as well as work independently within a group dynamic
• A self-starter who takes initiative, thinks effectively on his/her feet, and performs well in high-profile work environments
• A strong aptitude for research and summarizing complex issues in a clear, concise manner
• Excellent organizational skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate in supporting the team
• Strong understanding and extensive experience with social media platforms, especially Facebook and Twitter
• Ability to work with an extremely diverse volunteer and supporter base
• Superior multitasking ability a must!

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to create web-resolution graphics for social media and website
• Experience with web statistics and online advertising very desirable

ASA is an equal opportunity employer. Persons of color, GLTB, and women are strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply, please submit a cover letter with salary requirements and resume to [email protected]

No phone calls or faxes please. ASA is seeking an intelligent, creative individual for this job and therefore we are looking for thoughtful, personalized cover letters that demonstrate an applicant's qualifications and work style. Salary will be based on experience.