Director, Public Affairs

Director, Public Affairs

The mission of the Investment Company Institute (ICI) is to strengthen the foundation of the asset management industry for the ultimate benefit of the long-term individual investor.

The Public Affairs team in the Strategic Communications department consists of media relations, social media and digital engagement, website management, and rapid response. Reporting to the Senior Director, Public Affairs, the Director, Public Affairs is responsible for serving as spokesperson and media point of contact and specialist on ICI proactive media outreach; drafting materials, such as talking points, op-eds, statements, and letters to the editor; and assisting in developing and executing media campaigns. The incumbent also supports ICI policy initiatives by promoting the regulated investment fund industry and its viewpoints on relevant policy, industry and regulatory issues.

Essential functions of this role include:

Media Relations:

• While working closely with the Senior Director, Public Affairs, leads daily proactive media efforts, establishes relationships with reporters, raises issues, and corrects reports where needed.
• Monitors media coverage for new contacts, trends, and corrections, as well as initiates outreach efforts.
• Condenses and effectively conveys messages to the media, both proactively and reactively.
• Cultivates and maintains national, trade and international media relationships.
• Serves as on the record media spokesperson when directed.
• Handles interview preparation for principals, including message development and coaching.
• Coordinates with Subject Matter Experts across various departments on a regular basis.
• Collaborate with members of the Strategic Communications team to ensure consistency of messaging across all communication channels.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Anticipate potential communication challenges or crisis situations, devising proactive strategies and messaging to mitigate risks and protect the association's reputation.

Writing:

• Drafts internal and external talking points, statements, letters to the editor, and opinion pieces.
• Collaborates closely with Editorial team to draft and pitch editorial content advocating policy positions through resource pages, FAQs, backgrounders, and social media.

Other:

• Assists in developing and implementing media relations strategies that advance Institute policy goals.
• As a leader on the team, participates in the formulation of ICI's communications goals and objectives.
• Works closely with the Communications Specialist to spearhead the management of press materials, including press releases, statements, and press lists, while also overseeing the systematic tracking of media mentions for comprehensive visibility and impact assessment.
• Works constructively with other Institute departments in the furtherance of ICI policy objectives.

If you have the following credentials, we encourage you to apply:

• Bachelor's degree preferred and minimum of 8 - 10 years of experience in policy communication or related field.
• Knowledge of financial services industry, asset management, and retirement policy issues strongly preferred.
• Previous media, communications, or executive branch/Capitol Hill experience.

• Strong writing and editing skills with quick turn-around times and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Self-starter who can take initiative while working closely with the Senior Director, Public Affairs.
• Experience managing external vendors.
• The ability to rapidly develop in-depth understanding of key issues.
• Experience in media interview preparation for principals.
• Familiarity with financial and trade media.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks on deadline.
• Ability to work collaboratively with the Strategic Communications team and across other departments within ICI.
• Sound judgment.

ICI offers a competitive compensation and benefits package to include a comprehensive medical plan, generous 401(k) retirement savings plan, paid leave, commuting subsidies, and tuition reimbursement as well as training and development opportunities. Based in Washington, DC, ICI is conveniently located next to McPherson Square Metro station. This is a hybrid position with three days in the office and two days working from home.

To be considered for the position, please provide your cover letter and resume.

ICI is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity and inclusion in the workplace