Overview

SKDK's Executive Communications practice, led by senior speechwriters to Presidents Biden and Obama, is looking for a talented writer, creative message strategist, and collaborative teammate to join us as a Director.

Our practice is a unique specialty within an industry-leading public affairs agency that helps political, advocacy, and business leaders nail the narratives and strengthen the skills they need to succeed in the spotlight. 

We’ve served as writing partners to high-profile speakers who’ve won the White House, the Nobel Prize, and the trust of their communities. We translate complex ideas into compelling stories on behalf of entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and civil rights champions, and we create thought-leadership strategies for CEOs of blue-chip companies, heads of global foundations, and policymakers on the front lines of today’s biggest debates.

As a key member of our team, you’ll collaborate closely with our colleagues and clients — including elected officials and candidates; philanthropists and nonprofit leaders; advocates for cases before the Supreme Court and causes like racial justice, clean energy, global health, and economic fairness; and executives steering major American brands and innovative startups. You’ll take the pen on speeches and op-eds, draft messaging about newsworthy issues, and prepare and participate in media training sessions.

As a member of the SKDK team, you’ll work with accomplished and passionate communicators who take pride in working on what matters.

SKDK is made whole by the diversity of our team. That’s why we’re committed to building the most equitable and inclusive environment. Our values are tied into every aspect of our work, and we encourage individuals to bring their best selves into the workplace. Whether it is through participation in one of our Employee Resource Groups, serving on our DEI Council, opportunities to volunteer, or bringing a new perspective to client work, your unique identity and experience will not only be welcomed, but celebrated.

As a Director, you will be responsible for contributing to strategy development, leading writing projects, and advising clients and account teams. You can learn more about what we do here: https://skdknick.com/services/executive-communications.

Responsibilities

• Writing creatively and precisely in a range of long-form formats, including speeches, op-eds, organizational narratives, memos, and proposals.
• Preparing media-training and public-speaking coaching materials, and advising high-level principals.
• Assessing clients’ existing communications strategy, tactics, and writing, and making recommendations on strategy and deliverables.
• Leading small client teams and managing junior staff's work, with input from team leads.
• Tracking client deliverables and timelines. Maintaining regular client communication, including reporting.
• Supporting the development of new business proposals and ideas.
• Carefully editing and copyediting written materials to align with message imperatives, tone, clarity, and AP Style.

Qualifications

A successful candidate will have:

• Four to eight years of relevant writing or messaging experience in organizations such as political campaigns, government, issue advocacy groups, media, public affairs agencies, or similar.
• Excellent writing skills, experience crafting a variety of communications materials, and strong writing samples.
• Ability to manage a speechwriting or strategic messaging process, including shaping narratives and offering constructive feedback to high-profile principals.
• Experience leading a talented and dynamic team, cultivating a collaborative atmosphere, and accepting constructive feedback.
• Excellent organizational and prioritization skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong strategic instincts and experience managing multiple projects and deadlines in tandem.

Benefits

SKDK is committed to pay equity. SKDK believes the target range of base compensation in this role is $70,000-$105,000. In addition to base salary, SKDK considers other key components as part of total compensation, including but not limited to an annual discretionary bonus, commission on new business, and a comprehensive benefits package. Actual base compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors, such as skillset, level of experience, and location.

What we offer: 

• A generous benefits package including excellent coverage for health, vision, and dental insurance premiums
• Paid parental leave
• Time off including vacation, holidays, and sick time 
• 401(k) with an employer contribution
• Reimbursement for cellular service, public transportation, and additional benefits

SKDK believes in the growth and development of all our employees and therefore we offer:

• Professional development and career guidance
• Opportunities for advancement
• Participation in Employee Resource Groups 
• A collegial and supportive office environment

Equal Opportunities

SKDK is an equal-opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any protected category.