Associate Director, Strategic Communications

The Lede Company is looking for an Associate Director with substantial agency experience to join our Strategic Communications Division in either our Los Angeles or New York office. The division’s experience includes helping high-profile institutions and individuals in the entertainment, media, tech, and related creative communities establish and manage their public profiles. The Associate Director will lead the development of strategic plans, drive proactive media outreach, and serve as a key liaison with clients to execute media opportunities and fulfill client objectives. This role requires the ability to manage multiple accounts simultaneously in a high-volume, fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

We are seeking enthusiastic candidates who can work in a fast-paced environment, are driven, and have strong communication and writing skills.

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop creative story angles and pitches to secure media coverage across print, broadcast, and digital outlets at regional and national levels.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with traditional and new media (entertainment trade, consumer substacks, etc.), as well as current and prospective clients.

• Work directly with clients and senior staff, leading or supporting client communications as appropriate.

• Create and execute strategic communication plans, including messaging development and PR initiatives.

• Stay informed on music, entertainment, and fashion industry trends, events, and media coverage.

• Monitor changes in the media landscape, including journalist turnover and emerging outlets.

• Manage multiple client accounts simultaneously while meeting deadlines.

• Write, edit, and proof PR and marketing materials, including press releases, pitches, and narratives.

• Proactively develop compelling storytelling concepts for clients and their projects.

• Review and manage client deliverables, including itineraries, agendas, recap reports, and media coverage, ensuring timely distribution.

• Collaborate with internal support teams to execute client communications efficiently.

• Deliver strong results aligned with client goals and evolving priorities.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 7-10 years of work experience in corporate communications.

• Experience creating and implementing short and long-term communications strategies on behalf of companies, institutions, or individuals. Proven ability to create media plans from concept through to placement.

• Excellent writing skills. Whether writing an official press release, an awards submission, or a casual email, you can tailor your writing style to deliver information effectively.

• Ability to multitask and balance multiple clients. When everyone thinks their time and work is most important, you understand how to balance competing requests and keep everyone happy.

• Ability to meet deadlines without sacrificing quality.

• Solid relationships with members of the media, particularly entertainment and media reporters.

• A passion for media. You get your news from a wide range of sources and follow broader media trends.

• A strong understanding of the entertainment industry.

• A team-oriented attitude. You understand that it’s about the team’s success. You are willing to step out of your comfort zone to help the team succeed.

• Bachelor's Degree.

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Google Docs, Google Sheets and Google Slides.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

• In-Office Requirement: Minimum 3 days a week

• Occasional travel required
   

The Lede Company is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

ABOUT THE LEDE COMPANY

The Lede Company is a full-service strategy, communications and social impact consulting firm, specializing in corporate, entertainment, brand and nonprofit sectors. With dedicated Talent, Music, Strategic Communications, Brand, Content and Social Impact divisions, we work with our clients to advance business and social outcomes through innovative storytelling, media, campaigns and partnerships. Our service offerings draw on our expertise, relationships, and resources, all of which enable us to exceed client expectations and ultimately deliver results.