ASPCA
Senior Director of Policy Communications & Engagement Strategy
ASPCA, Washington, District of Columbia, us, 20022
Senior Director of Policy Communications & Engagement Strategy
ASPCA’s Communications team seeks a senior leader to advance the organization’s federal and state policy agenda. The role integrates earned and social media, marketing communications, advocacy, and campaigns to support policy initiatives across the organization.
What You’ll Do
Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on policy‑aligned communications strategy.
Convene cross‑functional teams—Government Relations, Legal Advocacy, Campaigns, and Development—to develop integrated policy campaigns and unified messaging.
Translate complex policy developments into clear, compelling stories for legislators, media, donors, and the public.
Drive media relations, including pitching stories, drafting releases, preparing spokesperson talking points, and managing press inquiries.
Develop rapid‑response protocols for breaking news and shifting agenda items.
Lead weekly coordination meetings and maintain shared content calendars across communications functions.
Collaborate with Social Media to amplify policy priorities and track online conversations.
Support strategic campaigns that mobilize supporters around legislative actions.
Provide consultative guidance on large integrated campaigns and emerging opportunities.
Navigate competitive priorities, ensuring that advocacy goals align with broader organizational objectives.
Maintain strong relationships with Washington, D.C. policy and media circles.
Track policy trends to recommend strategic pivots and timely approvals.
Qualifications
Experienced policy communicator with deep knowledge of the legislative and regulatory process and a proven track record shaping public narrative.
5+ years of team‑management experience and 5+ years of developing measurable integrated communications campaigns.
Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills; ability to distill complex policy topics into concise, engaging content.
Proficient in media relations: pitching stories, drafting releases, preparing experts, and serving as spokesperson.
Experience on the Hill or in Washington, D.C. policy circles with an established network of media contacts.
Strong leadership skills, strategic judgment, and the ability to motivate cross‑functional teams.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Airtable, and Canva; familiarity with AP Style.
Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, English, Communications, or related field.
Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment and manage multiple priorities.
Commitment to ASPCA’s Core Values: commitment, ownership, teamwork, elevation of others, and impact.
English required; Spanish a plus.
Location & Travel Position based in the DC Metro area; requires at least one day a week in the DC office, occasional travel to New York City, state capitols, and other locations. Ability to travel up to 25 % annually.
EEO Statement ASPCA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, gender identity or expression, age, marital or domestic partner status, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. Please inform the ASPCA’s People Team if you need an accommodation in order to complete any forms or otherwise participate in the application process.
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What You’ll Do
Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on policy‑aligned communications strategy.
Convene cross‑functional teams—Government Relations, Legal Advocacy, Campaigns, and Development—to develop integrated policy campaigns and unified messaging.
Translate complex policy developments into clear, compelling stories for legislators, media, donors, and the public.
Drive media relations, including pitching stories, drafting releases, preparing spokesperson talking points, and managing press inquiries.
Develop rapid‑response protocols for breaking news and shifting agenda items.
Lead weekly coordination meetings and maintain shared content calendars across communications functions.
Collaborate with Social Media to amplify policy priorities and track online conversations.
Support strategic campaigns that mobilize supporters around legislative actions.
Provide consultative guidance on large integrated campaigns and emerging opportunities.
Navigate competitive priorities, ensuring that advocacy goals align with broader organizational objectives.
Maintain strong relationships with Washington, D.C. policy and media circles.
Track policy trends to recommend strategic pivots and timely approvals.
Qualifications
Experienced policy communicator with deep knowledge of the legislative and regulatory process and a proven track record shaping public narrative.
5+ years of team‑management experience and 5+ years of developing measurable integrated communications campaigns.
Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills; ability to distill complex policy topics into concise, engaging content.
Proficient in media relations: pitching stories, drafting releases, preparing experts, and serving as spokesperson.
Experience on the Hill or in Washington, D.C. policy circles with an established network of media contacts.
Strong leadership skills, strategic judgment, and the ability to motivate cross‑functional teams.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Airtable, and Canva; familiarity with AP Style.
Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Policy, English, Communications, or related field.
Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment and manage multiple priorities.
Commitment to ASPCA’s Core Values: commitment, ownership, teamwork, elevation of others, and impact.
English required; Spanish a plus.
Location & Travel Position based in the DC Metro area; requires at least one day a week in the DC office, occasional travel to New York City, state capitols, and other locations. Ability to travel up to 25 % annually.
EEO Statement ASPCA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, gender identity or expression, age, marital or domestic partner status, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. Please inform the ASPCA’s People Team if you need an accommodation in order to complete any forms or otherwise participate in the application process.
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