ABOUT UNITED FOR RESPECT
UNITED FOR RESPECT (UFR) is a multiracial national nonprofit organization organizing people working in retail and fighting for fair, safe, and bold legislative and corporate policies that improve the lives of people who work in the sector. UFR is advancing a movement for an economy where corporations respect working people and support a democracy that allows everyone to live and work in dignity. We are building the 21st Century labor movement and we need a skillful press secretary to handle media inquiries and help us build our brand as an organization focused on equity and economic justice for retail workers.
Through strategic communications engagement, innovating digital strategies, scaled leadership development and base-building, UFR’s growing network is challenging major corporations and policymakers to provide family-sustaining jobs for all working people. We leverage technology — social media and our digital platform, WorkIt — and bring the retail workforce into a shared community of support and advocacy.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Press Secretary will develop earned media and other communications strategies to advance United for Respect’s overall communications work and name recognition. By collaborating with the organizing, campaigns, communications, and digital teams, the Press Secretary will amplify the voices and public leadership of United for Respect members. They will also work to proactively develop the brand story of the organization to help us become synonymous with workers’ rights to audiences across the country. The Press Secretary will support United for Respect’s broader retail strategies team to develop the leadership of our base to advocate for state and federal policies that improve the quality of retail jobs including raising the minimum wage and guaranteeing a fair workweek, paid family leave and earned sick time.
THE PRESS SECRETARY WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR:
Elevating United for Respect as a leading national voice for economic, gender, social, and racial justice.
Managing day-to-day media and communications work around campaigns.
Advancing bold communications strategies that advance our fast-moving campaigns.
Developing and executing press strategies, including short and long term media outreach plans.
Pitching stories, creating media materials and shaping media narrative in support of UFR’s campaigns.
Developing messaging and talking points that shape the narrative of our campaigns.
Training members and staff to be effective media spokespeople.
Forming strong working relationships with key reporters and editors.
Ensure that United for Respect is seen as a “go-to” source for journalists covering economic justice for hourly wage workers.
Developing, maintaining, and expanding our media database.
Writing and distributing press releases, op-eds and letters to the editor and making pitch calls.
Coordinating with our community-based and national partners to strengthen and coordinate our press strategies.
REQUIREMENTS
At least 3-5 years experience working in communications and press relations for progressive political campaigns, non-profit organizations, or unions.
Demonstrated commitment to economic and social justice and worker or community leadership.
Excellent writing skills.
An ability to juggle multiple projects at a time and work in a fast-paced environment.
A demonstrated commitment to meeting high standards and a history of getting things done even in the face of obstacles.
Strong interpersonal skills, a positive and enthusiastic attitude, and a commitment to contribute to a positive work environment.
Experience with social media tools and campaigns.
Ambition, drive, energy, and the ability to work flexible and long hours when necessary.
Ability to work well with diverse groups and populations.
Ability to work irregular hours based on new cycle or key campaign moments.
Spanish language skills preferred but not required.
LOCATION: REMOTE
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000, depending on experience.
Competitive benefits package provided for full-time employees and eligible dependents, including health, dental, vision, and prescription coverage and 401k. Ability to travel is a must.
United for Respect is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and actively recruits people of color, women, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ community. United for Respect provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.