Manager - Communications, External

Role Overview

The External Communications Manager will play a critical role in elevating Circular Action Alliance’s visibility and reputation through strategic external communications. This position is responsible for securing media coverage, managing executive speaking opportunities, aligning external content with organizational priorities, and maintaining consistent messaging across all channels. The Manager will also lead thought leadership initiatives, oversee content planning for quarterly webinars and monthly newsletters, and manage the organization’s editorial style guide.

Additionally, this role maintains the master messaging materials for the organization and provides oversight and guidance to the External Communications Specialist, ensuring tactical execution aligns with strategic goals.

The ideal candidate is a proactive communicator with strong media relations expertise, exceptional writing skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Media Relations & Coverage

• Develop and execute media relations strategies to secure positive coverage in national, trade and regional outlets.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors and influencers in relevant sectors.
• Manage media inquiries and coordinate responses to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Support state comms managers in managing media inquiries and engaging journalists.
• Prepare briefing materials, talking points and backgrounders for media interviews.

Executive Visibility & Speaking Engagements

• Identify and secure high-impact speaking opportunities for organizational leaders at conferences, webinars, and industry events.
• Support presentation development, including slide design and messaging alignment for executive engagements.

Content Development & Messaging Alignment

• Maintain and evolve master messaging materials to ensure consistency across all external communications.
• Create and oversee external content, including press releases, op-eds, blogs and social media posts, ensuring alignment with organizational messaging and tone.
• Lead content planning and execution for quarterly webinars and monthly newsletters.
• Manage and evolve the editorial style guide to maintain consistency and clarity across all external communications.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistency across all external communications platforms.

Thought Leadership

• Develop and implement a thought leadership strategy that positions CAA as a trusted voice in the industry.
• Produce high-quality articles, white papers and commentary for publication in relevant outlets.

Team Leadership

• Manage and mentor the External Communications Specialist, ensuring tactical deliverables meet strategic objectives.
• Foster collaboration and alignment with internal communications and marketing teams.

Monitoring & Reporting

• Track national and state media coverage and analyze performance metrics to inform strategy and demonstrate impact.
• Provide regular reports on external communications activities and outcomes to leadership.

Skills & Competencies

• Media Relations & Storytelling
• Strategic Messaging
• Thought Leadership Development
• Presentation Development
• Editorial Standards Management
• Strong Writing & Editing Skills
• Leadership & Team Development

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in external communications, media relations, or public affairs
• Proven success in securing media coverage and managing executive visibility programs
• Exceptional writing and editing skills with the ability to craft compelling narratives
• Experience managing content calendars and editorial guidelines
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment

Compensation & Other Information

• Location: Fully Remote
• Pay Rate: Based on a variety of factors in accordance with applicable law including the successful candidate’s relevant experience, skills, knowledge, and experience.
• Reports To: Strategic Communications Director

Circular Action Alliance is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), national origin, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you require accommodation as part of the application process, please contact careers@circularaction.org.