Communications Manager

Job Profile: External Relations and Advancement Specialist 3 Job Family: External Relations and Advancement Time Type: Full time Apply before 11:59 PM Arizona time the day before the posted End Date. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and five (5) years of experience appropriate to the area of assignment/field; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or training from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved. Job Profile Summary: Develops and drafts complex communication content and supports the communication strategy through storytelling and campaigns for university wide projects/efforts. Job Description: Position Salary Range: $73,680 - $85,000 per year; DOE The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family's dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world's most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all. The McCain Institute, a part of Arizona State University, seeks a full-time Communications Manager based in Washington, D.C. The Communications Manager is responsible for writing and editing communications materials, garnering publicity for key initiatives and events, pitching news stories and interviews with McCain Institute experts, and assisting with the implementation of the McCain Institute's communications and strategic engagement strategy. This position is heavily focused on booking print and broadcast media interviews for McCain Institute leadership and writing talking points, briefings, press releases, op-eds, presentations, digital copy, and other communications content. This role reports to the Senior Director of Communications and will work closely with the McCain Institute's Executive Director. This position is based in Washington, DC, and is eligible for a hybrid work schedule. Essential Duties: Identifies newsworthy impact stories within the organization and crafts communications plans to share these stories, including earned media pitches. Serves as media booker for the McCain Institute's executive director and staff. Writes talking points, memos, and other briefing materials for media appearances. Manages and updates media lists; tracks constantly changing press assignments. Establishes and maintains relationships with relevant journalists. Writes and edits press releases, media advisories, pitches, social media and web copy, op-eds, talking points, speeches, and other materials. Compiles daily news clips and maintains long‑term media tracker to share with leadership on a consistent basis. Creates analytics reports, blog posts, promotional videos, slide decks, and detailed events and communications plans. Actively participates in events, conferences, and meetings to provide media assistance and identify story opportunities, including the McCain Institute's signature annual event the Sedona Forum. Assists with promotional activities and media partnerships for the Sedona Forum. Assists reporters and editors in their efforts to understand the mission and activities of the McCain Institute. Carefully proofreads and ensures consistent formatting of all written materials to ensure consistent high‑quality output. Collaborates with key internal and external stakeholders to execute strategic goals and objectives. And other duties as assigned. Desired Qualifications: Proven experience in media relations: public relations, journalism, newswriting, social media, etc. Experience using contact management software to communicate with reporters and stakeholder lists; knowledge of Cision, Critical Mention, Mailchimp or equivalent. Excellent communication skills; knowledge of AP Style. Strong organizational skills and ability to multi‑task. Previous experience writing speeches, talking points, op‑eds, presentations. Ability to distill complex subjects into impactful communications materials. Able to implement feedback and understand subtleties of different audiences. Excellent research and analytical skills, highly detail oriented. Strong work ethic, professional attitude, proactive, able to adapt to fast‑moving situations, and highly professional team‑player. Ability to take direction and work in a team environment. Demonstrated interest in and knowledge of Senator John McCain, foreign policy, democracy, human rights and other issues related to the McCain Institute's mission and work. Working Environment: Climate‑controlled office setting subject to extended periods of being in a stationary position. Regular use of a computer and other office productivity equipment, such as a calculator, copy machine, and printer. Occasionally moving up to 20 pounds Department Statement: At McCain Institute, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway. We value your unique background and perspective, and you may be just the right candidate for this position or other roles on our team. Driving Requirement: Driving is not required for this position. Location: Off‑Campus: Washington, D. C. Funding: No Federal Funding ASU Statement: Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 100,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city. ASU champions inclusive excellence, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe. ASU is a tobacco‑free university. For details visit All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. Notice of Availability of the ASU Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: In compliance with federal law, ASU prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and resources. ASU's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at You may request a hard copy of the report by contacting the ASU Police Department at View phone number on click.appcast.io. Relocation Assistance - For information about schools, housing child resources, neighborhoods, hospitals, community events, and taxes, visit ASU's comprehensive benefits package is a key part of your total compensation. Visit the ASU Compensation Estimator Employment Verification Statement: ASU conducts pre‑employment screening which may include verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Background Check Statement: ASU conducts pre‑employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check. Fingerprint Check Statement: A fingerprint check is not required for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr