Associate Director, Communications

Breakwater Strategy, a strategic communications and insights agency, is seeking an experienced communications professional with a strong understanding of the blockchain and digital asset space to join our growing team of advisors. Breakwater advises companies, brands, coalitions and non-profits on how to navigate change, crises and complexities.

We are looking for a strategic thinker who demonstrates professional maturity, possesses strong project management skills, and can deliver strategic insights and advice to clients. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, embraces debate, feels energized by media relations work, stays current with industry and policy trends, and is ready to lead client teams with precision and excellence.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as a day-to-day point of contact for clients, managing tactical execution and relationship-building while providing strategic input on media approach and messaging
• Lead the development of media strategies at the national and local level, including crafting pitch angles and identifying reporter targets
• Support as day-to-day, client-facing media relations lead, interacting regularly with trade-specific and general press
• Build, maintain, and grow relationships with key reporters and media contacts across relevant beats
• Oversee earned media reporting to clients, using data and analytics to tell a compelling narrative about coverage and impact
• Proactively identify and respond to client needs, taking ownership and accountability for deliverables
• Coordinate and facilitate internal and client activities as a key team leader
• Oversee the timely, precise production of media materials and other client deliverables, thinking ahead and communicating next steps to teams
• Help craft persuasive messaging and press materials, simplifying complex legislative, regulatory, or business issues for media audiences
• Test assumptions and contribute to internal debate on client media strategy and positioning
• Provide mentorship and coaching to junior staff, supporting their professional development
  
  

ATTRIBUTES

• 5-8 years of relevant experience in strategic communications, media relations, public affairs, or management consulting
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree a plus. Previous agency experience a plus
• Experience and deep understanding of the crypto and emerging technology space strongly preferred
• Established relationships with reporters and media contacts, with a deep understanding of the changing media landscape and what it takes to break through
• Exceptional strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to translate complex issues into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences
• Strong writing and presentation skills, with attention to detail and precision
• Experience managing multiple client relationships and leading cross-functional teams
• Demonstrated ability to think critically and question conventional thinking
• Proactive approach to staying informed on relevant industry news, trends, and developments
• Capacity to build and cultivate relationships with peers across a broad stakeholder audience
• Ability to lead entire workstreams, managing both up and down effectively
• Identifies and communicates to leadership new business opportunities that build on current client work
• A collaborative mindset with a commitment to fostering a supportive team environment
  
  

District of Columbia Salary Range: $95,000 USD - $125,000 USD