The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a Senior Communications Manager to assist the Managing Director of Communications in raising the profile of VEDP by implementing and overseeing earned media campaigns promoting Virginia’s target sectors, economic development and workforce solutions, and industry leader testimonials. This position will be responsible for identifying trends and unique stories for news releases and pitches; writing media responses, event briefings, and talking points; and creating content for industry-specific case studies, the annual report, and other publications as needed. This position will also assist in managing and executing media tours.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the implementation of an effective earned media campaign that increases brand awareness and communicates Virginia’s advantages for business
• Create and distribute news releases and media advisories
• Craft strategic media pitches and build relationships with journalists
• Assist with media tour logistics and execution
• Track media requests and responses by subject
• Update industry-specific content and rankings statistics on a regular basis for media responses and value proposition materials
• Assist with drafting media briefs and responses
• Manage the media monitoring software by updating media lists, ensuring relevant and correct contacts for Virginia media lists and industry-specific lists, and track coverage
• Build relationships with internal partners to help inform storytelling
• Assist with drafting and editing Governor’s announcements, quotes, event briefings, and media advisories
• Assist with speech writing, talking points, and other PR tasks as required
• Maintain quote database for the Marketing & Communications Division
• Assist the Communications Director in developing and updating project case studies for each target industry, covering all regions of Virginia on an ongoing basis
• Assist with development of owned content, including thought leadership

Skills:

• Impeccable communication skills (verbal and written)
• Strong editing skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality on sensitive matters
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidiscipline team environment
• Ability to work well under pressure in meeting deadlines
• Ability to exhibit sound judgment in making decisions
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize work and effectively manage multiple projects
• Understanding of economic development principles and state and local government programs is preferred

Experience:

• 5 years of communications/public relations experience required
• Experience in media relations, including planning and executing an earned media campaign
• Experience working with and pitching media on national level

Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.

This position may require travel and representing VEDP at multiple functions and events. A valid Virginia driver’s license and ability to obtain a passport is required. All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers. Applicants must submit three writing samples. Salary minimum: $70,000. Application deadline: Open until filled.

This position is based in Richmond, Virginia and is eligible for hybrid work.

VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDP’s intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or vedphr@VEDP.org. TDD 1-800-828-1120.