Manager Strategic Communications and Advocacy

About the Role

Hunton Andrews Kurth is seeking a dynamic and experienced Manager of Strategic Communications and Advocacy to develop, implement, and manage comprehensive strategic communication and advocacy plans for our practice groups and clients. This role supports the Global Economic Development, Commerce and Government Relations practice by positioning the group, its managing director, professionals, and lawyers to support existing clients, attract new business, and grow revenue.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee strategic communications and advocacy plans, including message development, media relations, coalition building, digital advocacy, and grassroots campaigns.
• Advise clients and internal teams on communications strategy and content.
• Conduct research and evaluate communication effectiveness; stay abreast of relevant political, social, and industry developments.
• Build and maintain professional media relationships; manage media inquiries and crisis communications.
• Provide digital advocacy services and produce speeches, talking points, and multimedia content.
• Facilitate media training and assess the use of traditional and social media platforms.
• Coordinate grassroots and grass tops campaigns to influence policy and public opinion.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree desired.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience managing projects or processes is required; 7 or more years of progressively responsible communications experience is preferred. Experience in a law firm, public affairs firm, corporation, government entity, professional services firm, or other client relationship-driven or consulting organization is strongly preferred. Experience working on political campaigns at the local, state, and/or national level is preferred, regardless of political party affiliation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in crisis management and in industries relevant to client needs, including energy and infrastructure development, higher education, legal services, technology, and tax policy.
• Existing relationships with members of the media or demonstrated success in media relations.
• Ability to develop, execute, and manage digital advocacy strategies and campaigns, create graphic and visual content, and oversee paid and organic digital engagement efforts.
• Knowledge of local and state government processes, particularly as they relate to permitting.

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to distill complex concepts into simple, compelling messages.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite applications and other software programs, including online research databases.
• Strong commitment to client service excellence and teamwork.
• Ability to work across a range of industries, fields, and topics.
• Highest standards of ethical conduct and professionalism.
• Ability to act as a catalyst for change, drive and own results.
• Creative, innovative, and self-starter with a team-oriented mentality.
• Excellent communication skills (oral, written, and listening) and ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse group of clients and professionals.
• Sound judgment, flexibility, and ability to work well under pressure.
• Patience, diplomacy, high stress tolerance, and excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize workload and adapt to changing conditions.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a staff of other professionals and volunteers.
• Visual acuity needed to process and read extensive written communications.
• Ability to receive and convey detailed information through oral communication.

Other Requirements

• Frequent travel may be required.
• Availability and willingness to work hours as needed to meet critical deadlines.