Director of Media Relations

Description The Director of Media Relations serves as a key partner in sharing the Cathedral’s voice, mission, and public presence with audiences across the country. This role leads the Cathedral’s media engagement and plays a central part in shaping written content that supports institutional priorities. The Director provides writing and editorial support for a wide range of platforms, including Cathedral Age (the Cathedral’s magazine), Cathedral Connects Blog, Crossroads Podcast, statements, remarks, and national moments requiring timely reflection. The role also serves as the primary point of contact for all media inquiries, coordinating responses, preparing leadership for interviews, and supporting proactive earned media efforts that highlight Cathedral worship, programs, and events. In partnership with senior leadership and the Cathedral’s strategic communications firm, the Director supports crisis communications and contributes to coordinated messaging during urgent or sensitive situations. The position represents the Cathedral in interactions with reporters, partner organizations, and the broader public, helping to strengthen relationships and expand awareness of the Cathedral’s work and witness. This is a collaborative, forward-facing role that requires strong judgment, exceptional writing skills, sensitivity to tone, and the ability to navigate both routine and high-profile communications with care and professionalism. Requirements Media Relations and Public Affairs Primary Point of Contact for Media Serve as the Cathedral’s main point of contact for incoming media inquiries. Coordinate media visits to the Cathedral, including set-up, security coordination, and on-site support. Prepare Cathedral leaders and subject matter experts for interviews. This may include developing talking points, briefing materials, practice questions, and suggested framing. Build and maintain positive relationships with reporters, editors, producers, and partner institutions. Serve as a media spokesperson when appropriate. Proactive Earned Media Strategy Develop and support proactive media engagement that increases public awareness of Cathedral programs, services, and institutional priorities. This includes but is not limited to: Identifying story opportunities that align with mission and have news value Pitching stories to targeted reporters and outlets Coordinating with Marketing and Communications staff to shape media calendars and messaging Highlighting seasonal priorities such as Christmas, Easter, concerts, and public programs Working with departments to surface events or initiatives that have strong public interest potential Crisis Communications and Emergency Response Support crisis communications planning and response to help ensure consistent communication during urgent or sensitive situations. Monitoring and Analysis Monitor media coverage and identify themes, opportunities, and risks. Public Ambassador for the Cathedral Represent the Cathedral in public and professional settings. Writing and Editorial Leadership Writer for Cathedral Communications Develop clear and compelling written materials for the Cathedral as a whole, including statements, reflections, speeches, remarks, website content, and other pieces that support institutional priorities. Including but not limited to: Principal Writer for Cathedral Age Coordinate content development and editorial planning for Cathedral Age in partnership with Marketing and Communications, Development, and other staff. Blog and Feature Writing Write and edit stories for Cathedral blogs, newsletters, and related platforms. Highlight Cathedral life, worship, programs, national moments, and community impact. Podcast Content Development Support podcast content, including scripts, outlines, and narrative structure in collaboration with the Cathedral’s content management team. National Moments and Rapid Response Writing Draft timely reflections and statements for moments of national importance. Provide rapid response writing so that public messages are thoughtful, relevant, and coordinated. Editorial Quality and Institutional Alignment Serve as an editorial partner across departments as needed. Help ensure that Cathedral-wide communications are clear, consistent, and reflective of Cathedral values. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, English, or a related field At least five years of experience in media relations, public affairs, journalism, strategic communications, or a related discipline Demonstrated experience responding to media inquiries and working directly with reporters Proven ability to write quickly, clearly, and in multiple voices for a range of platforms, including statements, articles, speeches, and digital content Preferred Qualifications Previous experience in a communications or media role within a complex nonprofit, faith-based institution, cultural organization, or mission-driven entity Experience managing or supporting editorial processes for publications or institutional communications Demonstrated success in proactive media outreach, including pitching stories and securing earned media placements Strong understanding of digital communications strategy, analytics, and audience engagement Abilities, Knowledge, And Skills Intellectually curious Empathetic and able to navigate sensitive topics with care Strategic thinker who can balance long-term planning with day-to-day execution Excellent copywriting and editing skills, with the ability to write clearly in the Cathedral’s tone and voice Ability to assess news value, identify story opportunities, and support proactive earned media efforts Strong verbal and written communication skills for a wide range of audiences Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities Ability to work with confidential information and maintain discretion Working Conditions This position requires work during regular business hours. At times, some work on weekends and outside of regular business hours may be required. This position is eligible for a hybrid model of work, requiring at least 3 days/week in the office. The position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in preparing reports using a computer keyboard. The position also requires near and far vision for reading and preparing written reports and other required documents. Acute hearing is also required when providing phone assistance. The need to lift, drag, push, and pull files, reports and other materials weighing up to 25 pounds is also required. Washington National Cathedral is an equal opportunity employer and strives to create a more diverse and inclusive atmosphere for all. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. We support an inclusive workplace where associates excel based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance. Washington National Cathedral seeks individuals who are committed to our mission. We appreciate interest from those who will contribute to an atmosphere in which diversity is valued and supported. #J-18808-Ljbffr