Public Relations Officer

Job title:

Public Relations Officer

Company

Freedom House

Job description

ABOUT FREEDOM HOUSEEstablished more than 80 years ago on the core conviction that freedom flourishes in democratic nations where governments are accountable to their people, Freedom House is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that works to defend and expand freedom globally to help secure a world where all are free. Around the world, repressive regimes are preventing billions of people from exercising their fundamental rights. We identify and analyze threats to freedom, mobilize decision makers to respond to those threats and seize opportunities for progress, and support activists and organizations working to defend and expand freedom. We are dedicated to ensuring that the United States serves as a positive model of democratic practice at home and a consistent champion of freedom globally. By gathering authoritative data and leveraging our global networks, Freedom House is an unwavering beacon in protecting human rights and promoting democratic governance.All Freedom House employees possess a deep and unwavering commitment to nonpartisanship, with a sustained dedication to the mission of Freedom House. We have a strong work ethic and a keen desire for both personal and professional development. The team is also dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging.POSITION SUMMARYThe Public Relations Officer will play a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission in the U.S. and around the globe though pursuing and coordinating media and public-facing opportunities for Freedom House experts and leadership, ghostwriting and editing persuasive written materials, preparing executives for interviews, events and other public engagements, and executing creative public engagement strategies. While a member of the communications team, the position will work across the organization, coordinating closely with executives, programs, advocacy, research and development staff. This person, along with others on the communications team, will help ensure Freedom House has a hard-hitting, nonpartisan, principled voice focused on democratic values, institutions, and processes. The position reports to the Public Relations Director.PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Day-to-day media relations: proactively pitch stories and op-eds, field incoming media inquiries, coordinate interviews and prepare interviewees, build relationships with media, and track and measure earned media coverage of Freedom House.
• Media relations advance planning and rapid response: Proactively identify near-term and long-term opportunities and develop strategies to secure earned media coverage; move swiftly to position Freedom House experts for comment in breaking news situations.
• Produce speeches, talking points, memos, news releases and advisories, statements, and other public relations materials as needed.
• Serve as media lead and point of contact for select report rollouts and releases.
• Use media monitoring and analysis tools (Muck Rack) to track results of earned media outreach and prepare reports and presentations that help inform our strategy and tactics.
• Work closely with communications, executives, programs, advocacy, and research colleagues to ensure consistent use of narrative and key messaging across multiple audiences and contexts, paying particular attention to maintaining our nonpartisan voice.
• Review draft op-eds and statements to assess news value and appropriateness and consistency of messaging.
• Develop, maintain, and nurture relationships with top-tier US and global media; help maintain Freedom House media contacts database.
• Oversee and develop Freedom House’s monthly newsletter for members of the media.
• Support public relations director in organizing events for members of the media, including media meet and greets, salons, press conferences, and in-person or virtual briefings.
• Lead ad hoc event planning for high-profile Freedom House events, including overseeing project management, speaker prep and show flow development, day-of logistics, and coordination with partners.
• Use Freedom House communications tools (Pardot, Muck Rack, web and social) to disseminate timely Freedom House announcements.
• As needed and appropriate, work closely with media and events specialist to advise on intern projects that support the communications team.
• Other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONSExperience:

• Minimum of 4 years of relevant communications experience, preferably in agency, nonprofit, or public policy settings
• Media relations experience
• Experience writing speeches a plus
• Existing relationships with members of the media in the US or internationally working on diplomacy, democracy or human rights-related issues a plus
• Knowledge of democracy, human rights, and foreign policy

Technical Skills and Abilities:

• Strong writer and editor for a range of vehicles, including print, web, social media, email
• A nose for news and understanding of news values
• Able to communicate complex topics effectively and concisely
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, oral and written, for effective interaction with internal staff, external contacts, and diverse stakeholders
• Superb attention to detail and an ability to produce error-free work on tight deadlines
• Ability to take a balanced, principled stand on democracy issues independent of political party lines and to help steward our nonpartisan voice
• Must be a self-starter with professional maturity and sound judgment, capable of independent decision-making
• Ability to thrive in a creative, fast-paced, and highly professional environment that emphasizes excellence, collegiality, and teamwork
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Ability to maintain the highest degree of confidentiality and exhibit unquestionable integrity, honesty, and forthrightness.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to respond promptly to inquiries courteously and professionally.
• Ability to successfully work collaboratively with all levels of employees, management, external partners, and funders.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Freedom House established core values are belonging, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and respect. Through these values we prioritize creating a supportive and inclusive environment, emphasize collective efforts for success, are dedicated to high-quality impactful work, uphold trust through courage and honesty, and treat everyone with dignity while appreciating their unique contributions.
• Diversity makes our work stronger. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Diverse backgrounds relevant to the countries in which we have programming are a welcome asset.
• Applicants should complete our online application form and to submit a resume and a cover letter that outlines interests and qualifications for this position.
• Candidates must possess authorization to work in the United States independent from Freedom House sponsorship.

COMPENSATION & REWARDS:

• Salaries are commensurate with experience and based on pay grades that prioritize equity across the organization. Salary range is between $73,000 to $82,000 annualized, dependent upon experience.
• We are consistently working to retain and attract top talent to contribute to our continual growth. We are proud to offer an excellent benefits package including:

• Multiple medical plans, dental, and vision insurance available on the first date of hire.
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with up to a 10% employer match.
• $1,500 yearly professional development reimbursement for work-related trainings courses or memberships directly related to employee’s position.
• Generous Leave Programs

• Annual paid time off that grows with your employment: 15 days for 0-2 years, 20 days for 3-5 years, 25 days for 6+ years. Director level and above start at 25 days.
• Sick Leave: 10 days per year, unlimited roll over year to year.
• 14 paid holidays with the ability to float the day later within the same calendar year.
• Parental leave: 20 days paid.
• Bereavement: 3 days paid.
• Jury duty: 30 days paid.
• Flexible, hybrid work culture with slow down weeks and “no meeting Fridays”.
• Supply annual allocation benefit: $210 for the purchase of home office equipment.
• Mental health and well-being services through KonTerra Group.
• Free gym at the DC office.
• Short-term and long-term disability.
• Supplemental/Voluntary life insurance.
• Employee assistance program.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Essential functions are typically performed in an office setting or remote work.
• May require long hours including evenings and weekends to complete tasks.
• Travel to some countries, for business or in some cases personal reasons, while a Freedom House employee, may not be advisable or even possible due to high security risks.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Freedom House is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in its selection and employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, or other non-merit factors.

Expected salary

$73000 – 82000 per year

Location

Washington DC

Job date

Sat, 18 May 2024 06:56:44 GMT

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