Account Director, Public Affairs

Marathon Strategies, an independent communications and research firm, is looking for an seasoned Account Director, with previous agency, Capitol Hill, political, or media experience. This role will help drive and execute public affairs and communications initiatives for a diverse portfolio of corporate, nonprofit, association, and advocacy clients. This position will be based out of the firm’s DC office.

We are looking for a policy communications pro with strong right-of-center media relationships or political experience, writing skills, and, ideally, previous client management experience. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker well-versed in media, policy, and politics who can help drive sophisticated public affairs and corporate communications campaigns. You will have worked in a public affairs or public relations agency, news organization, political campaign, Capitol Hill, federal government, or industry association. You will also have a network of relationships with national media, possess excellent writing skills, and be resourceful, enthusiastic, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Sitting on the DC Public Affairs team, the Director is responsible for implementing and supporting strategic communications programs on behalf of clients across a variety of different industries, with expertise in right-of-center policy circles.

Job Responsibilities :

Client Management

• Acts as the key day-to-day point of contact and strategic lead for assigned clients.
• Implements strategic communication initiatives and programs
• Develops client work plans, plays critical role in the day-to-day management of timelines and deliverables
• Prepares initial versions of internal and client communications, prep for client calls, meetings, etc. while providing regular updates to senior management
• Understands environment in which client operates

Media Relations

• Fluent in media relations outreach strategies and tactics, including reporter relationship building, pitching, and interview staffing
• Experience developing media relations materials, including reporter briefings, press releases, and pitches
• Familiarity with third-party management and media placement

Copy Content Creation

• Familiarity with AI platforms, like Claude.
• Develops a wide-range of error-proof communication materials such as memos, strategies, PowerPoint presentations, press releases, talking points, opinion editorials and speeches
• Converts complex issues into compelling messages on behalf of clients
• Creates original and creative angles to explain problems
• Writes and edit digital materials, including websites, e-mails, ads, social media copy and interactive materials

Team Management

• Leads project management/workflow as it pertains to his/her clients
• Create a climate which inspires team members to exceed expectations
• Manages up effectively

New Business Development

• Contribute to new business proposals and presentations.
• Provides strategic direction and input.

Interpersonal Skills

• Relates well to people at all levels
• Takes personal accountability for work
• Committed to getting job(s) done accurately and on time.
• Pays attention to detail and is well organized

Job Requirements :

• 7-10 years of experience in communications role in an in-house or consultancy environment
• Journalism, communications, and/or public affairs experience on Capitol Hill or an Administration role desired
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in related field
• Experience implementing strategic communication programs
• Possess a range of media relationships
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Developed or emerging business acumen
• Creative, energetic, detail-oriented and possesses an entrepreneurial spirit