Job Type: Regular Director of Media Relations RAND is seeking a strategic and dynamic Director of Media Relations to lead our media relations team and elevate our brand. In this pivotal role, you will develop and implement comprehensive media strategies across various platforms, including print, radio, television, and online. You will guide a team of professionals in crafting impactful media materials, commentaries and op-eds, managing communications during crises, and executing integrated campaigns in support of RAND's mission. This position offers the opportunity to work collaboratively with top-tier researchers and leaders to enhance RAND's reputation as an unbiased premier research organization, making it an ideal role for a visionary leader committed to making a difference through effective media engagement. Qualifications Required attributes for this position are the following: Demonstrated experience developing and executing comprehensive media strategies to enhance an organization’s visibility and influence across print, radio, television, and online platforms. Proven ability to lead and mentor a dedicated team of media relations professionals in the creation and pitching of media materials, production of commentaries, and management of media inquiries. Strong crisis communications capabilities with a track record of ensuring rapid and effective responses during critical situations. Demonstrated ability in leading effective integrated communications campaigns that align with organizational priorities and mission. Facility working across complex organizations and the ability to engage with internal and external stakeholders to advance communications priorities. Proven track record of fostering a collaborative environment, working closely with peers, partners, and team members to build and maintain an inclusive and collaborative culture based on continuous learning and development. Familiarity with public policy research and analysis including the ability to understand a wide range of topics, methods, and data types. A demonstrated commitment to innovation in media relations including experience adopting new tactics, strategies, and approaches to media outreach. A deep network of relationships with influential journalists in the public policy space. Education Requirements Bachelor’s degree required in journalism, English, communications, public policy, or another related field with a strong communications component. An advanced degree in a related field is strongly preferred. Experience A minimum of 9 years of experience working in journalism, PR, communications, public policy or related areas, including at least 5 years of management and/or supervisory experience. Previous experience in the education, government, nonprofit or private sectors is desirable. Security Clearance A successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a United States government security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. Location The position will be located in RAND’s Arlington, VA office. This position is eligible for RAND’s hybrid work environment, which enables a blend of on-site and remote work with at least 50% of the time in a RAND office. Writing Sample Applicants are required to provide a writing sample that showcases their ability to develop a strategic media outreach plan or a crisis communications plan Salary Range: $172,800 - 269,900 RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including, but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate’s work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND’s sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits, including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a savings plan, paid time off, and more. Equal Opportunity Employer: race/color/religion/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/national origin/disability/vet RAND is a research organization that develops solutions to public policy challenges to help make communities throughout the world safer and more secure, healthier and more prosperous. RAND’s research and analysis address issues that impact people everywhere, including security, health, education, sustainability, growth, and development. Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, RAND has approximately 1,775 people from approximately 55 countries working in offices in North America, Europe and Australia, with annual revenues of $356.2 million. RAND is nonprofit, nonpartisan, and committed to the public interest. Our research is sponsored by government agencies, international organizations, and foundations. We rely on philanthropic support to pursue visionary ideas; address critical problems that are under-researched; and devise innovative approaches for solving acute, complex, or provocative policy challenges. RAND values objectivity and integrity in both its research processes and internal interactions. We emphasize a collegial environment that respects the contributions and dignity of all staff. RAND's reputation is built on quality and objectivity. RAND provides an exciting intellectual environment and opportunities for career growth. We hire highly qualified applicants and provide challenging assignments. Diversity is an essential operating principle at RAND. We look for unique backgrounds, original views, and diversity in academic training, work experience, and ideological outlook. We are committed to Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action. RAND is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact Human Resources at (310) 393-0411 or at jobs@rand.org and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.