Vice President, Crisis Communications and PR

Overview

The National Geographic Society seeks a VP of Crisis Communications and Public Relations to safeguard and elevate our reputation through strategic communication, media relations, and crisis management in a global, high‑profile environment.
Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Advisory (25%)

Serve as primary strategic advisor to the C‑suite on public perception, risk mitigation, and executive positioning.
Develop and lead society‑wide communications strategies aligned with long‑term growth priorities.
Recommend key thought‑leadership opportunities and oversee crisis preparedness playbooks.
Lead high‑level negotiations during crises to stabilize the organization.
Build relationships with partner communications leaders and manage agency resources.
Align communication and marketing plans with inclusive content and social impact best practices.
Crisis & Issues Management (25%)

Command crisis responses, managing real‑time communication across multiple media.
Defend the organizational narrative during high‑visibility global crises.
Act as the primary spokesperson for sensitive or complex company news.
Design and oversee crisis simulation programs and media training.
Reputation & Media Relations (25%)

Build top‑tier relationships with journalists, industry influencers, and international media outlets.
Develop reputational monitoring protocols and leverage advanced analytics.
Lead an annual strategic PR and earned‑media plan in partnership with stakeholders.
Create external messaging, talking points, speeches, press releases, and blog posts.
Train spokespeople and secure speaking engagements.
Team Leadership (25%)

Coach the team to secure thought‑leadership opportunities and manage collaboratives.
Oversee direct reports and partner with internal subject‑matter experts for accuracy.
Develop vision, KPIs, and project plans to meet business objectives.
Monitor staff performance, conduct appraisals, and administer salary adjustments.
Partner with Legal, HR, and Security to ensure compliance with standards.
Qualifications

Educational Background

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, or related field.
Experience

15+ years of progressive leadership in PR, corporate affairs, or crisis management.
7+ years of management experience.
Necessary Knowledge and Skills

Track record supporting C‑suite executives and business units.
Extensive media relations experience across traditional and digital platforms.
Strong storytelling and narrative development skills.
Excellent oral and written communication.
High discretion and professional judgment.
Leadership, mentoring, and project management skills.
Experience managing agencies and traveling nationally/internationally.
Desired Qualifications

Experience in advocacy, non‑profit, or fundraising space.
Experience with legacy brands and PR agency work.
Strong relationships with journalists covering science, environment, education, or nonprofits.
Supervision

Supervises 2+ direct reports and a team of 4.
Compensation

Salary range: $247,000.00 – $260,000.00 per year.
Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Comprehensive wellness program.
401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months.
Flexible paid time off: up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year, 15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated; 10 days of sick leave.
12 paid holidays and a paid winter break (may not apply to all roles).
Paid parental leave, adoption, surrogacy expense reimbursement, and fertility benefits.
Learning and development opportunities.
Lifestyle Spending Account and pet adoption assistance.
Pre‑tax transportation benefits and generous employer subsidy.
Employer‑paid life insurance and disability benefit.
National Geographic discounts and perks.
Work Arrangement

Hybrid: staff expected to work Base Camp in Washington, D.C. two days a week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Additional days are welcome.
EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive equal employment opportunity and are authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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