Communications Specialist

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is seeking a Communications Specialist to provide key support in raising the profile of VEDP, telling the story of Virginia, and promoting the Commonwealth as a top state for business to audiences in the state, nationally, and globally. This position will help plan and execute earned media campaigns and media tours; assist with Governor’s announcements and events with companies, localities/regional economic development organizations, and the Governor’s Office; manage databases; and assist with other communications tasks as needed, such as drafting news releases, social media copy, talking points, annual report content, and case studies.

Responsibilities:

• Assist the Communications team in promoting VEDP’s mission and Virginia’s brand with the media, as needed
• Draft news releases, event briefings, and media advisories
• Assist with writing talking points and speech writing, researching and drafting content for digital case studies and VEDP annual report, editing copy, and other public/media relations tasks, as required
• Assist the Marketing Manager with drafting social media content
• Manage VEDP’s quote database
• Manage VEDP’s media monitoring software, build and update media and industry lists, and report on earned media coverage
• Assist with media tours
• Assist Managing Director of Communications with communication efforts

Skills:

• Impeccable communication skills (verbal and written)
• Strong editing and proofreading skills, including knowledge of AP style
• Confident and professional demeanor
• 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
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships, both internally and externally
• Ability to think creatively
• Strong time management skills; ability to work well within tight deadlines
• Ability to exhibit sound judgment in making decisions
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize work and effectively manage multiple projects
• Understanding of state government (preferred, but not required)

Experience:

• Experience writing both long-form and short-form content (example: feature stories and social media copy)
• Experience working with media monitoring software (preferred, but not required)
• Experience executing events (preferred, but not required)

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 requires travel and representing VEDP at multiple functions and events. A valid Virginia driver’s license is required.

All candidates must apply through our website https://www.vedp.org/careers and submit a resume, cover letter, and three writing samples. Salary minimum: $55,000. Application deadline: May 6, 2025.

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.