Director, AONL Advocacy and External Communications

About the role

The American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) seeks a dynamic and experienced advocate to lead its communications efforts. This role will be based in Washington, D.C., with a flexible hybrid work schedule of three days in the office and two days remote.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver strategic messaging to policymakers, media, members and stakeholders, while monitoring legislative and media landscapes.
• Serve as key communications liaison across AONL, the American Hospital Association (AHA) and national coalitions, including the Tri-Council for Nursing, to ensure alignment and maximize advocacy impact.
• Lead communications plans to spotlight the good work led by nurse leaders, AONL’s advocacy efforts and policy strategies to elevate the AONL voice and increase the value of AONL membership.
• Develop and articulate AONL’s position on policy issues affecting the nursing workforce, education and practice, leveraging professional expertise to influence policy development.
• Direct various communications efforts and provide communications counsel and editorial assistance on numerous projects.
• Work with advocacy team to edit and review comment letters, regulatory advisories and other special member communications.
• Develop communication strategies to support various initiatives from AONL-related groups.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislative activity, regulatory developments and media coverage; develop reports and briefings for AONL senior leadership.
• Identify and implement targeted public policy efforts to create impactful advocacy campaigns, utilizing independent judgment to navigate complex issues in the nursing field.
• Develop and execute proactive and reactive media strategies, including press releases, statements, op-eds and media outreach in coordination with AHA communications.
• Strengthen relationships with external stakeholders to support AONL strategic goals, acting as a key liaison for affiliate organizations and fostering partnerships on critical issues.
• Identify and create resources to support nurse leaders in navigating the current healthcare landscape, utilizing digital platforms for effective communication.
• Serve as the primary backup to Senior Director of AONL Advocacy and External Communications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, Communications, Political Science, Public Policy, Health Care
• 7+ years of Advocacy and external communications professional work experience
• Demonstrated expertise in creating, executing and evaluating public policy initiatives, advocacy, crisis management, stakeholder management and coalition building

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in writing and editing a variety of materials, as well as the ability to break down complex issues in easy-to-understand language
• Experience managing and delivering top-notch communication materials
• Advanced knowledge of media relations/external communications best practices and strategies
• Intermediate computer and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) skills
• Knowledge of advocacy and communication platforms
• Advanced knowledge of social media and the Web

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work with a diverse group of people, at all levels of the organization and board, as well as external stakeholders
• Ability to work both independently and as a team player
• Proven ability to work in a fast-moving environment and can adapt to changing priorities and deadlines
• Ability to plan and manage complex problems
• Ability to grasp complex issues and create understandable and relevant materials for AONL members and the nursing field
• Ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues across departments of the AHA and AONL, with AONL leadership, outside stakeholders and vendors
• Ability to work under tight deadlines is necessary
• Proven ability to think creatively to solve problems

Benefits

The American Hospital Association (AHA) offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical/dental coverage (PPO/HMO), vision care, life insurance, short- and long-term disability plans, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, PTO/holidays/health days, wellness programs, and more!

Pay

Salary Information Commensurate with related experience. The AHA is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. A candidate's salary is determined by various factors including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications, and location. Salary Range - Minimum 126000 Salary Range - Midpoint 158000 Salary Range - Maximum 190000