Job Announcement – Communications Director

SALDEF is seeking a Communications Director to lead media related efforts for the nation’s oldest Sikh American civil rights organization.  Apply today for this exciting career opportunity! ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES •    Manage media relations, maintain the media contacts database, prepare press releases and conduct news  conferences. Develop media strategies, pitch stories and draft op-ed pieces •    Establish a community-wide crisis communication plan •    Identify, train, and support community spokespersons to effectively engage with media •    Respond to press calls and develop talking points or quotes •    Manage content for SALDEF’s social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, etc. •    Produce and coordinate the scheduling of advertising for media and event programs •    Write, produce and edit newsletters and community advisories •    Write, produce and edit SALDEF publications, resources, and annual report QUALIFICATIONS •    Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of three years of relevant experience •    Demonstrated experience in public relations, journalism, civil liberties law, or a related field requiring significant writing and public relations duties •    Demonstrated experience working in a multi-disciplinary team setting to develop communications strategy •    Demonstrated ability to communicate complex and controversial issues and to convey information about the issues to both narrow and broad audiences •    Experience working in Sikh American or South Asian communities is preferred •    Must work well in a team environment •    Strong verbal and written, communication, and interpersonal skills •    Must demonstrate tact and grace under pressure •    Exceptional research, analytical, writing and editing skills with working knowledge of the production of printed  publications, including layout and graphic design •    Outstanding skills in cultivating contacts in the news media and overseeing the press contact database, as well as responding to press inquiries •    Ability to multitask and work under tight deadlines •    Willingness to travel •    Location: SALDEF’s National Office in Washington, DC or remotely from New York. Note that working from New York will require frequent travel to Washington, DC. COMPENSATION SALDEF offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with experience HOW TO APPLY Applicants should send a cover letter (include salary requirements), resume, a list of three references, and a writing sample by email to careers@saldef.org or fax to 202-318-3344.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

NOTE: This job description provides a general but not comprehensive list of the essential responsibilities and qualifications required. It does not represent a contract of employment. SALDEF reserves the right to change the job description and/or posting at any time without advance notice.