Director of External Communications

Director of External Communications The American Coatings Association (ACA) is seeking a Director of External Communications to elevate the association's public profile, drive advocacy campaigns, and amplify the unified voice of the industry to policymakers, the media, and the general public. The new Director of External Communications will help shape and broadcast the association's public narrative, manage media relations, and drive brand reputation. The individual in this role will craft messaging, handle crisis communications, and direct campaigns to ensure clear, consistent, and compelling outreach to build positive industry sentiment with all stakeholders. The person in this role will report to ACA's Senior Vice President.
Key Responsibilities
Communications Strategy & Messaging
Craft strategic design and execution of all public-facing messaging, including industry narrative, in alignment with the association's strategic plan
Develop comprehensive external communications plans that elevate brand visibility and support overall organizational goals
Ensure consistent framing of core messages across all public-facing platforms, including websites and social media platforms
Media & Public Relations
Develop and execute proactive media and PR plans to advance the association's communication goals
Act as the primary spokesperson and media liaison; field incoming press inquiries and coordinate interviews for association executives
Draft press releases, op-eds, talking points, and media briefing materials
Cultivate and maintain relationships with key journalists across trade, business, and mainstream media outlets
Develop and execute reactive crisis communication plans to mitigate reputational risks and address public relations challenges
Advocacy Outreach
Collaborate with the association's Government Affairs team to translate complex legislative bills and regulatory issues into accessible, persuasive content (e.g., fact sheets, policy briefs, and one-pagers)
Monitor the news cycle and legislative developments to identify rapid-response opportunities and mitigate potential reputational risks
Manage the production and distribution of industry position and impact statements
Content Strategy & Digital Outreach
Oversee the association's external-facing digital presence, including the main website and social media channels
Ensure all external messaging aligns with the association's brand guidelines and strategic vision
Track media coverage, public sentiment, and campaign effectiveness using data-driven KPIs
Stakeholder & Member Engagement
Collaborate closely with the association's Events & Engagement teams to ensure external communications reflect member value and address industry challenges
Regular interaction with association's Communications Committee and subcommittees comprised of industry members and leaders that oversee the association's strategic communications messaging
Support the communication needs of member coalitions and strategic industry partnerships
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a keen ability to demonstrate impact and urgency
Strong presentation and oral communication skills; must be confident public speaker
Strong existing network of media contacts and a deep understanding of evolving digital, print, and broadcast media landscapes
Strong political judgment, crisis management, and rapid-response abilities
Demonstrated success in managing external PR agencies, consultants, or small internal teams
Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or a related field
Progressive experience of 8+ years must include trade association and/or government work involving public relations, media relations, or public affairs
Location and Travel
This position is located at ACA headquarters in Washington, DC and will operate within a hybrid work environment (working both onsite and remotely). Some travel will be required in this role.
Employment, Salary and Benefits
This is a full time, regular position. Salary is dependent on experience, but can range from $120,000 to $150,000. ACA provides generous benefits including 401(k) match, PTO, medical, dental, and life insurance, commuter benefits & wellness reimbursement, and professional development/training opportunities.