Director of Communications and Membership

About Waterways Council, Inc. Waterways Council, Inc. (WCI) is the national public policy organization advocating for a modern, well-maintained inland waterways system. WCI represents shippers, carriers, port authorities, and other stakeholders who rely on the 12,000-mile inland waterways network to move goods efficiently and affordably across the country. Based in Washington, DC, WCI works closely with Congress, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Executive Branch to advance investment in locks, dams, and channel infrastructure. Position Summary WCI seeks a skilled communicator and relationship-builder to serve as Director of Communications and Membership. This person will lead the organization's external and internal communications, manage media relationships and social media presence, and drive membership growth and retention. The role sits at the intersection of advocacy, journalism, and member engagement, and requires someone who is comfortable working across a small, collaborative team on a wide range of projects. The ideal candidate writes clearly under deadline, understands the basics of federal policy and the media landscape, and brings genuine enthusiasm for the inland waterways industry. Key Responsibilities Communications and Media Draft and distribute news releases, Breaking News updates, the biweekly ebrief , and the President's Recap Serve as WCI's primary media contact; field press inquiries and help coordinate interviews with the President/CEO or appropriate WCI members Write commentaries and op-eds for trade publications Draft Board of Directors and Executive Committee meeting Minutes Manage WCI's social media accounts, including developing and scheduling content, monitoring engagement, and growing WCI's presence across platforms Use AI tools to support content creation, research, and communications workflows, with an understanding of where AI adds value and where human judgment is required Annual Publications and Events Manage the WCI Ann...