Director of Communications

Job Description

The Director of Communications is responsible for leading SEIA’s media relations and editorial strategy to drive public opinion and positive policy outcomes for the solar and storage industry. The person in this role will serve as the primary point of contact for reporters and editors across all types of media, including print, broadcast, online, and non-traditional outlets. This role is also responsible for developing and executing short- and long-term editorial plans, and crafting compelling written and digital content that elevates SEIA’s voice.

In addition to managing SEIA’s media and editorial strategy, this person will collaborate with internal teams, external partners, and vendors to advance state, federal, and regulatory policy initiatives. SEIA is looking for a talented, creative communicator with a proven track record of media relations success and managing complex communications campaigns. Knowledge of the energy sector and policy is a plus.

Core Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead a proactive media outreach strategy, maintain relationships with key reporters and editors, and manage press inquiries to amplify SEIA’s initiatives and industry priorities
• Oversee the creation and execution of comprehensive editorial calendars, ensuring alignment with SEIA’s advocacy goals and strategic messaging
• Write and edit media materials, including public statements, press releases, talking points, briefing materials, blogs, and opinion pieces
• Staff and prep SEIA spokespeople for media interviews, including the president and CEO
• Coordinate with teams across the organization, SEIA members, and partner organizations to maximize our campaigns and achieve policy wins
• Track and analyze the effectiveness of SEIA’s communications work, using data-driven insights to refine strategies and demonstrate impact

Requirements

• 6-8 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, marketing, publications, or related field required
• Demonstrated ability to make news and establish long-term, authentic relationships with reporters
• Campaign, policy, and/or field experience a plus
• Excellent editing, writing and verbal communications skills
• Demonstrated ability to simplify and solve complex challenges and issues
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication, presentation, and influencing skills, and ability to collaborate and build relationships with colleagues at all levels
• Self-motivated with a proven track record of delivering results in a fast-paced environment
• Strong initiative and ability to set and achieve challenging goals
• A team player who builds strong relationships with broad range of internal and external stakeholders
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, and familiarity with media relations and analytics software/tools

Working Conditions

• This position is based in Washington, DC.
• SEIA employees in the Washington, D.C. region follow a hybrid remote and in-person office model. Employees work 3 days a week in an office environment and as needed when there are special events or meetings but will otherwise be remote.
• Work Location: Washington, D.C.

Compensation Range

$110,000-$115,000 annually, based on experience and excellent benefits package.

Working at SEIA

SEIA values diversity, inclusion and equity within our organization and the promotion of these values across the solar industry. We strive to welcome different perspectives, identities, and backgrounds, regardless of job function in order to create a more resilient organization that supports a strong, equitable solar industry. SEIA envisions an industry that is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity. We aim to achieve this by encouraging openness and transparency about diversity issues and progress. We will develop strategies, programs, and tools that seek to equalize opportunities within SEIA and allow for discussing and sharing best practices within the solar industry.

SEIA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) 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, homelessness, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. SEIA complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we employ staff. 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.

SEIA IS AN E-VERIFY EMPLOYER