POSITION EMPHASIS: The position supports the NEA’s strategic objective to focus the energy and resources of its 3+ million members by providing strategic advice to NEA, affiliates, governance, staff and state affiliate staff on positioning critical issues of the Association.

POSITION SUMMARY: This position provides message guidance and/or talking points anchored in an established message frame.  Coach leaders and staff in delivering Association messages. Essential functions include: ensure content advances a narrative, paints a picture and tells a story that is persuasive, memorable and easily shared. Design message frames, tools or matrices that help teach message principles and message points to spokespeople; craft narratives that provide context and a framework from which others can generate their own customized unique content. Convey guidance regarding its use with clarity and inspires spokespeople, content producers, writers and social media strategists to develop compelling, brand-aligned copy. Devise and lead engaging and memorable message training workshops in person and remotely. Devise or recommend strategies for using the precise media mix effectively to attract and retain audiences, including members, activists and surrogates; increase brand recognition; and maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty. Lead mixed media ad campaigns leveraging research, trends and audience analysis to recommend appropriate media mix for reaching target audience(s) in a variety of media channels.  The incumbent advises NEA leaders and staff as well as state affiliate leaders and staff on communications strategies, including strategies related to long-term planning and crisis assistance.

IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA), THE FOLLOWING IS PROVIDED: The position involves skill in using a personal computer; oral and written communication skills; creativity, proofreading and editing skills; use of clear and articulate speech; interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment; use of reasoning, analysis, and problem solving skills; sitting for long periods; stooping, bending, and reaching; ability to carry light materials (up to 10 pounds); and ability to travel by various conveyances, e.g., air and automobile.

Required Skills

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications, Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations, Political Science, or related discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Five years of professional experience writing and analyzing policy and three years of media and or copywriting experience conducting campaign work, advertising or field organizing experience. Experience in telling a story using words, images, or audio, and an understanding of how to create content that draws an audience. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Specialized coursework in writing, oral communications (including presentation skills), facilitation and consensus building. Availability to work extended hours on evenings and weekends. Work samples may be required at the time of an interview. Frequent travel required (between 45-90 overnights) per year.

Required Experience

SELECTION CRITERIA: TIER 1 (ESSENTIAL): Demonstrated significant experience in telling a story using words, images, or audio. Demonstrated ability to clearly articulate the business goal behind the creation of a piece (series) of content. Demonstrated experience drafting strategic messaging, including speeches, presentations, message frames, talking points for a wide range of stakeholders. Experience synthesizing information and developing advocacy tools including message boxes, opinion editorials, and other written documents for use by Association leaders. Proven flexibility and effectiveness in handling multiple and complex projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities/conditions. Highly developed and effective interpersonal skills. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively towards organizational goals. Successful references. TIER 2 (SIGNIFICANT): Demonstrated experience building advertising campaigns, flights and analyzing performance based upon key performance indicators. Familiarity with opinion research process and how to leverage the data to create compelling and effective copy. Experience with presentation tools and flexibility to identify new software or tools that can engage trainees. TIER 3 (DESIRABLE): Knowledge of Center for Communications mission and strategic objectives.

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENT: Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications, Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations, Political Science, or related discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Five years of professional experience writing and analyzing policy and three years of media and or copywriting experience conducting campaign work, advertising or field organizing experience. Experience in telling a story using words, images, or audio, and an understanding of how to create content that draws an audience. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Specialized coursework in writing, oral communications (including presentation skills), facilitation and consensus building. Availability to work extended hours on evenings and weekends. Work samples may be required at the time of an interview. Frequent travel required (between 45-90 overnights) per year.