Director (New York City Metropolitan Area)

HELLER is a leading public relations and strategic communications consultancy based in New York and Los Angeles. Steeped in crisis communications, we work on the front lines of high-profile issues management situations every day, designing and executing strategies that help our clients successfully navigate complicated issues and protect their reputations. We are looking for an exceptional, dynamic, and driven communications professional to join our fast-growing team. 

This position is located in New York City and requires a minimum of four days per week in the office.

Primary Responsibilities

• Deliver strategic counsel and craft communications plans that demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of client issues and expert knowledge of communications tactics and the media landscape
• Manage news stories from start to finish – generate ideas and angles to secure media coverage, identify target reporters and story elements required, successfully pitch stories, prep clients for interviews, closely manage stories to ensure outcomes that achieve client goals
• Maintain strong reporter relationships and engage directly with global top-tier media to shape stories and serve as an on-the-record spokesperson
• Constantly generate creative ideas to help clients break through the noise and secure earned media coverage
• Manage production of client deliverables including researching, drafting, and editing materials such as press releases, fact sheets, talking points, op-eds, and memos
• Oversee media monitoring and analysis
• Assist in hiring, training and mentoring junior staff

Core Competencies/Qualifications

• Six to eight years of experience in political communications, corporate communications, public affairs, or journalism with a desire to be part of an excellent team.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented individual who can quickly analyze issues, execute several projects simultaneously, and think creatively and problem-solve to advance client priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills, with a proven ability to produce well-written and compelling documents on tight deadlines.
• A strong interest in the news and a comprehensive understanding of the national media.
• Ability to work well with others and manage in all directions in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and to build strong relationships with coworkers and members of the media.
• Bachelor’s degree required.

The base annual salary for this position is between $100,000 and $130,000 per year.

HELLER provides generous benefits including coverage for medical, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) with employer contribution, paid parental leave and time off for vacation, holidays and sick leave.