Director / Vice President

About the Firm

Risa Heller Communications is a leading communications and strategic communications consultancy based in New York City. We are looking for an exceptional and driven communications professional to join our Real Estate & Civic Life team, which leads strategic communications for many of the highest profile real estate, cultural, civic, and economic development projects and organizations in New York City and around the region. 

This position is located in New York City and requires a minimum of four days per week in the office.

Primary Responsibilities

• Create and implement strategic communications programs for a variety of clients 
• Lead multiple accounts in varying topic areas, managing significant and sensitive client relationships.
• Work collaboratively with clients’ legal and government affairs teams to provide integrated guidance and counsel to clients as they move through critical moments
• Draft strategic communications plans that demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of client issues and expert knowledge of communications tactics and the media landscape
• Manage production of day-to-day client deliverables – including researching, drafting, and editing materials such as communications plans, press releases, fact sheets, talking points, Op-Eds, and memos
• Maintain strong reporter relationships and engage directly with global, city, state, and hyperlocal media to shape stories and serve as an on-the-record spokesperson
• Constantly generate creative ideas to help clients break through the noise and secure earned media coverage
• Build talented teams, mentoring and managing junior staff and overseeing their work product

Core Competencies/Qualifications

• Experience in strategic/corporate communications, public affairs, or journalism with a desire to be part of and help lead an excellent team. Director (6-8 years of experience) / Vice President (10 years)
• Highly organized, detail-oriented individual who can quickly analyze issues, execute several projects simultaneously, and think creatively and problem-solve to advance client priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills, with a proven ability to produce well-written and compelling documents on tight deadlines.
• A strong interest in the news and a comprehensive understanding of New York City and national media.
• A strong understanding of New York City politics, real estate and neighborhoods, along with New York State politics
• An ability to work well with others and manage in all directions in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and to build strong relationships with coworkers and members of the media.
• Bachelor’s degree required.

Annual salary range: Director ($95,000-$110,000) / Vice President ($150,000-$180,000) RHC provides generous benefits including coverage for medical, dental and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) with employer contribution, paid parental leave and time off for vacation, holidays and sick leave.