Sr. Communications Manager

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a Senior Communications Manager to assist the Managing Director of Communications in raising the profile of VEDP by implementing and overseeing earned media campaigns promoting Virginia’s target sectors, economic development and workforce solutions, and industry leader testimonials. This position will be responsible for identifying trends and unique stories for news releases and pitches; writing media responses, event briefings, and talking points; and creating content for industry-specific case studies, the annual report, and other publications as needed. This position will also assist in managing and executing media tours.Responsibilities:Oversee the implementation of an effective earned media campaign that increases brand awareness and communicates Virginia’s advantages for businessCreate and distribute news releases and media advisoriesCraft strategic media pitches and build relationships with journalistsAssist with media tour logistics and executionTrack media requests and responses by subjectUpdate industry-specific content and rankings statistics on a regular basis for media responses and value proposition materialsAssist with drafting media briefs and responsesManage the media monitoring software by updating media lists, ensuring relevant and correct contacts for Virginia media lists and industry-specific lists, and track coverageBuild relationships with internal partners to help inform storytellingAssist with drafting and editing Governor’s announcements, quotes, event briefings, and media advisoriesAssist with speech writing, talking points, and other PR tasks as requiredMaintain quote database for the Marketing & Communications DivisionAssist the Communications Director in developing and updating project case studies for each target industry, covering all regions of Virginia on an ongoing basisAssist with development of owned content, including thought leadershipSkills:Impeccable communication skills (verbal and written)Strong editing skillsStrong organizational skills and attention to detailAbility to maintain strict confidentiality on sensitive mattersAbility to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidiscipline team environmentAbility to work well under pressure in meeting deadlinesAbility to exhibit sound judgment in making decisionsDemonstrated ability to prioritize work and effectively manage multiple projectsUnderstanding of economic development principles and state and local government programs is preferredExperience:5+ years of communications/public relations experience requiredExperience in media relations, including planning and executing an earned media campaignExperience working with and pitching media on national levelBeing authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.This position may require travel and representing VEDP at multiple functions and events. A valid Virginia driver’s license and ability to obtain a passport is required. All candidates must apply through our website

https://www.vedp.org/careers . Applicants must submit three writing samples. Salary minimum: $70,000. Application deadline: Open until filled.This position is based in Richmond, Virginia and is eligible for hybrid work.

VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDP’s intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action.

Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or

vedphr@VEDP.org

. TDD 1-800-828-1120.

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