Alexandria, VA • Full-Time • Bachelor's Degree Required
The Senior Director of Strategic Communications plays an integral role in implementing the association’s goals for advocacy, outreach to member companies, the agriculture industry, and media. The individual must work well in a team environment, manage multiple projects, and be a self-starter. Knowledge of agriculture is required and understanding of the seed industry is a plus. The ideal candidate will have prior experience in public and private sectors.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement annual communications plans
Work to solidify ASTA as the voice of the seed industry and go-to source for media
Prepare and distribute official press releases and statements
Manage all media and interview requests
Lead ASTA’s Communications Committee and plan meetings/bi-annual summits.
Educate target audiences about the association’s work and the American seed industry
Provide support drafting speeches, columns and talking points for officers and senior management
Collaborate with Vice Presidents of Domestic and International Policy and Government and Regulatory Affairs to draft policy papers, federal comments, talking points and other communications resources in support of ASTA’s policy priorities
Represent ASTA on the International Seed Federation Communications Working Group and other relevant industry/agriculture coalitions
Oversee ASTA’s Director of Communications
Qualifications
Strong organizational skills
Excellent oral and written communications
Ability to manage multiple projects
Responsible for meeting deadlines
Must be highly driven and results oriented
Flexibility to respond quickly to changing priorities
Education and Experience Required
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or marketing
Minimum of 5-7 years’ experience in communications, marketing or public relations
Strong writing and grammar skills
Knowledge of and experience in agriculture is required and understanding of the seed industry and related policies is a plus
Excellent interpersonal skills
Willingness to travel (roughly 25%)
Knowledge of branding principles
Experience with social media
To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to ATSA COO Ann Jorss: ajorss@betterseed.org.