Communications Advisor , Brookings

The Brookings Institution is a private nonprofit organization devoted to independent research and innovative policy solutions. Established in 1916, Brookings analyzes current and emerging issues and produces new ideas that matter - for the nation and the world.

Brookings seeks to fill the position of Communications Advisor, Office of Communications.

BASIC FUNCTION

Provides strategic guidance to Brookings scholars, centers and programs working on domestic policy to help them reach their communications and outreach goals. Serves as liaison to communications/outreach staff in Economic Studies, Governance Studies and Metropolitan Policy programs and coordinates communications efforts and media relations across the research programs. Works as part of a team to create and implement targeted communications strategies to effectively reach policymakers and other key audiences.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's degree required. Minimum four years professional experience creating communications strategies and/or working with elite media in a policy-oriented environment; demonstrated writing and editing skills required. Experience on Capitol Hill or in an executive branch agency preferred.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

Capability for overall strategic analysis and planning in communications required. Must be able to work within context of larger institution, coordinating communications efforts. Must also have strong oral and written communications skills, plus demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. Excellent news judgment and experience proactively pitching timely stories and op-eds. Must be able to simplify and synthesize complex issues and text, both in written and oral forms. Strong computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft office a must. Knowledge of social networking tools a plus. Knowledge of domestic issues such as tax policy, healthcare policy, education policy and regulatory policy preferred.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

50% Create and Implement Communications Strategies

• Design and implement comprehensive communications strategies that increase scholars' impact in promoting policy reforms – including special events, interviews and multimedia content, reporter roundtables, online communications and Capitol Hill briefings.
• Develop long-range communications plans for special projects, such as the launch of new centers, and major all-Brookings initiatives or events (including the annual Growth Through Innovation forum, the response event to the President's State of the Union Address, among others).
• Function as event lead and manage VIP events featuring Administration officials, world leaders and members of Congress.
• Manage media relations strategies and proactively pitch reporters.
• Write and edit press releases, media advisories, pitch letters, fact sheets and other materials to ensure positioning/messages/brand awareness.
• Write and edit text for the website and various electronic newsletters.

50% Coordinate Communications Efforts with Brookings Research Programs

• Serve as the liaison to communications and outreach professionals in Brookings's various programs, centers and initiatives, especially those working on domestic policy.
• Attend Communications Director and Outreach meetings and meet regularly with program communications and outreach staff to coordinate efforts.
• Help design and implement communications strategies to promote policy reforms – with an emphasis on ensuring long-term impact.
• Identify opportunities to increase Brookings's visibility by responding to key policy developments and breaking news through blog posts, video Q&As, interviews and social media.
• Work with research program staff and Brookings Institution Press staff to craft communications strategies to promote new book releases.

Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications for the position will be considered. Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment in this position. No phone calls please. Brookings welcomes resumes from all qualified applicants, particularly women and minorities.