The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International has an exciting opportunity in our Marketing & Communications Department as the Director of Marketing & Communications. This position is located at APCO International’s Alexandria, Virginia office.

APCO International is the world’s oldest and largest organization of public safety communications professionals and supports the largest U.S. membership base of any public safety association. It serves the needs of public safety communications practitioners worldwide - and the welfare of the general public as a whole – by providing complete expertise, professional development, technical assistance, advocacy and outreach. Our members manage, operate, build and support public safety communications systems for law enforcement, fire, emergency medical and other public safety agencies.

The Position: The Director of Marketing & Communications oversees the strategic development and execution of all communication initiatives, including media relations, social media, marketing, and brand management. Leads APCO's efforts in enhancing its visibility in emergency communications, ensuring effective delivery of content to members. Formulates and implements strategies to promote organizational programs and services, while also providing communication guidance to staff and members. Manages communication plans, budgets, promotional materials, and the association's online presence.

Reports to: Chief of Staff

Essential Job Tasks:

The following are general descriptions of the essential job tasks of the position. Other related tasks may be assigned as necessary and appropriate.

Supervises the activities of APCO’s marketing and communications team and oversees all marketing and communications that includes APCO’s web presence, email communications, direct mail, social media and media relations

Develops and maintains relationships with external partner organizations and media to promote the association's policies and programs

Drafts and edits press releases consistent with APCO messaging

Works with senior staff on issues having potential impact to the association to create communications strategies

Oversees all marketing campaigns, evaluates effectiveness and identifies market segments that will drive the growth of the association

Ensures consistent branding for all APCO products and collateral

Manages various consultant and vendor relationships

Prepares department budgets

Serves as liaison with assigned committees

Manages all public relations and press inquiries

Minimum Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, journalism, public relations or related field or equivalent experience is required

Background in policy, nonprofit, and/or advocacy focused associations is preferred

8-10 years’ relevant experience in communications and marketing with demonstrated success

Preferred Qualifications:

Proven success in building and cultivating key relationships and meeting strategic goals

Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of media, public, and community relations

Outstanding oral, written and presentation skills

Proficient with editing and AP style

Demonstrated abilities in developing strategic communication plans

Proven ability to be creative in identifying and executing media opportunities as well as managing successful social media campaigns

Demonstrated success in marketing (including data-driven email marketing effectiveness) and brand management

Strong project management, collaborative, analytical, and organizational skills

Strong presence and credibility and demonstrated abilities in crisis communication

Proficiency in office productivity software, content management systems, association management systems, email marketing services, and social media platforms