Communications Specialist

American Humane is seeking an experienced Communications Specialist to work in concert with the communications team to promote the mission and work of American Humane. This position will be based out of American Humane's Washington D.C. office. American Humane is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. As we seek to fill this position, we highly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

For more than 100 years American Humane has been first in promoting the welfare and safety of animals and strengthening the bond between animals and people.We are first to serve, wherever animals are in need of rescue, shelter, protection or security. Through our innovative leadership initiatives – from our “No Animals Were Harmed®” program in Hollywood to broad-based farm and conservation animal welfare certifications, to rapid response rescue and care across the country – American Humane sets the gold standard as the most visionary and effective animal welfare organization in the nation.

Position summary:

Responsible for promoting the mission and work of American Humane through all communications mediums and platforms. Work in coordination with the communications team to develop and implement earned media strategies inclusive of rapid response broadcast pitches, opinion editorials, letters to the editors, statements and long-lead efforts. The Communications Specialist will coordinate media opportunities, produce written materials and ensure quality and consistency in messaging with master brand of the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Pitch members of the press (i.e. reporters, television network producers, etc.) on a regular basis.
• Help develop and implement strategic media outreach plans for specific announcements, programs and events.
• As needed, prepare internal and external spokespeople for media appearances to ensure that they publicly represent the organization in an accurate, positive manner.
• As directed, serve as the lead on-site media liaison for press appearances, including: American Humane events with press attendance (e.g. congressional briefings, the K-9 Medal of Courage, Hero Dog Awards, etc.); in-studio television appearances; press conferences; and interviews on location (e.g. during a rescue mission), among others.
• Build and maintain productive working relationships with members of the press to maximize opportunities for earned media coverage.
• Write and distribute press releases, as well as public statements; keep up-to-date distribution lists for press releases and announcements.
• Serve as lead writer responsible for producing and pitching editorial content (i.e. letters and op-eds) on behalf of the CEO. Assist with other American Humane publications as needed.
• Field questions from the media.
• Oversee booking and production of interviews.
• Provide additional media and writing support for American Humane, including fundraising and development efforts.

Essential experience, knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Three to five years of professional experience in public relations, communications, media relations, or related field.
• Must love to pitch and have demonstrable portfolio of results.
• Strong communication skills with proven ability to present, write and edit, and to do so in a clear, concise, well-organized and well-articulated manner.
• Ability to change voice and writing style to fit a particular audience and purpose.
• Self-disciplined, entrepreneurial, action-oriented style that thrives in a start-up environment; strong work ethic.
• Ability to produce high-quality work on deadline and under pressure. Comfortable managing multiple projects, priorities and deadlines at one time.
• Ability to think proactively, take initiative and see tasks through to completion with appropriate follow-up.
• Sound judgment and discretion in handling and securing confidential information, as well as the ability to conduct oneself in a highly professional manner.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to establish and implement systems and identify resources to ensure the successful completion of projects. Ability to create and maintain files, recording systems and communication protocols.
• Flexibility to work as part of a team or independently and across departments to meet goals in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency in computer and office technology including applications for project and data management and electronic calendars (Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook preferred).  Ability to quickly learn software specific to the department or institution.

Direct reports:

N/A

Physical demands and work environment:

• Position is based in Washington, DC.
• Position operates in a standard office environment and must be o.k. with occasional animals in the office or at work related events.
• Travel required, potentially up to 15%-20% at times.
• Occasional need for hours beyond regular office hours, including some evening and weekend work.

American Humane’s core values define our workplace, and these values serve as the cornerstone for interactions in advancing our mission and institutional goals. Employees are expected to adhere to all organizational policies and to act as role models, demonstrating American Humane’s core values:

Compassion – Being kind and caring in our interactions with others.

Accountability - Holding ourselves to the highest standards. Following through on commitments and owning our actions, behavior, and decisions.

Respect for All – Being professional, listening to others and honoring diversity in all its forms.

Loyalty to Mission  – Staying focused on our purpose and our mission – our nation’s most vulnerable depend on us.

Sustainability - Contributing to being a great place to work and achieving our shared mission and goals to make a difference, now and in the future.

Honesty, Integrity, Trust – Demonstrating transparency, as trusted stewards of donor resources, supporting our leadership and one another.

American Humane (AH) is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to fostering and growing diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and the humane space.

To apply, please submit resume and cover letter here: https://americanhumane.applytojob.com/apply/F7JpXawkoG/Communications-Specialist?source=Foundation+List