Communications Director

Vertical Aviation International (VAI) is seeking a strategic Communications Director to lead public relations, executive communications, earned media, and external messaging. This role will work closely with senior leadership to support advocacy, legislative, regulatory, and industry priorities while strengthening VAI's visibility and influence across the aviation industry. Key Responsibilities Public Relations & Media Strategy Develop and execute public relations, earned media, and annual communications plans aligned with VAI's advocacy and industry priorities. Monitor media coverage, industry trends, and emerging issues to identify communication opportunities. Build and maintain relationships with industry media and key external stakeholders. Executive Communications Serve as the primary communications strategist and writer for the President & CEO. Draft speeches, testimony, op-eds, articles, talking points, and executive correspondence. Maintain a consistent executive voice and message across communications. Content Development & Editorial Leadership Write and edit press releases, Q&As, backgrounders, website content, articles, newsletters, and related materials. Ensure content is accurate, clear, brand-aligned, and mission-focused. Translate complex policy and technical topics into engaging, accessible content. Communications Project Management Manage communications projects from concept through publication and distribution. Develop timelines, project plans, and resource needs to support successful execution. Collaborate with marketing, government affairs, membership, and creative teams on integrated initiatives. Digital Communications & Creative Collaboration Partner with design and digital teams to develop visual, multimedia, and multi-platform communications. Support ongoing improvements to VAI's communications channels and member engagement efforts. Other Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, English, Political Science, or related field. Five (5) or more years of experience in communications, public relations, media relations, public affairs, or related fields. Strong executive writing experience, including speeches, talking points, articles, testimony, or similar materials. Experience with legislative, regulatory, public policy, advocacy, association, nonprofit, or aviation communications preferred. Exceptional writing, editing, proofreading, verbal communication, and attention-to-detail skills. Strong project management, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration abilities. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, WordPress, Adobe Creative Cloud, Teams, and collaboration platforms. Knowledge of AP Style and Chicago Manual of Style. Work Environment and Travel Hybrid role based in Alexandria, Virginia, with at least two in-office days per week and additional days as needed. Approximately 20% travel for conferences, events, and industry meetings. Why Join VAI? Impact Shape the voice of the leading association representing the vertical aviation industry. Executive Visibility Work directly with senior leadership on communications tied to critical industry issues. Meaningful Work Support advocacy, policy, and member engagement initiatives that advance aviation. Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% employer-paid employee premiums, a generous retirement plan match, tuition reimbursement, and a flexible hybrid work environment. #J-18808-Ljbffr