Senior Public Affairs Specialist

Position

Reports To:

Director of Communications & Media Relations

Positions Supervised: N/A

The Senior Public Affairs Specialist plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing Cornerstone’s public affairs strategy. This individual will work closely with the Director of Communications & Media Relations to elevate the visibility and influence of the association and its member credit unions across key stakeholder groups, including media, policymakers, and the general public. The ideal candidate is a strategic communicator, experienced in media relations, public policy messaging, and advocacy communications.

• Media Relations & Outreach
  • Draft and distribute press releases, op-eds, media advisories, and statements on behalf of the association and its leadership.
  • Collect member stories and assist in responding to media inquiries and proactively pitching advocacy-specific stories to advance the credit union movement’s policy and reputational objectives.
• Public Affairs & Advocacy Communications
  • Create compelling messaging and content to support the association’s advocacy initiatives at the federal and state levels.
  • Collaborate with advocacy and regulatory teams to translate complex policy issues into clear, impactful narratives.
  • Develop toolkits, fact sheets, talking points, and other materials to support member engagement in grassroots advocacy.
• Strategic Communications Planning
  • Responsible for enhancing, protecting, and promoting Cornerstone’s family of brands by conceptualizing, writing, and editing strategic, accurate, and concise content for external and internal audiences.
  • Support the development and implementation of comprehensive public affairs campaigns.
  • Create promotional copy/messaging and lead the promotion of select events, including the creation of materials for both members and lawmakers.
  • Monitor and analyze media coverage and public sentiment; work with Communications team to adjust messaging and strategy as needed.
  • Partner with internal teams to ensure consistency and alignment across all communications platforms.
  • Assist with other communications campaigns as assigned.
• Content Development & Thought Leadership
  • Draft speeches/scripts/presentations, blogs, and other thought leadership content for executives and subject matter experts.
  • Project management and creation of advocacy publications (including newsletters, legislative summaries, and event materials), and major initiatives.
  • Support the Communications department in the development of Cornerstone’s publications.
  • Other duties as assigned.
• Issues Management & Crisis Communication
  • Assist in managing communication efforts during sensitive issues or crises affecting the credit union industry.
  • Help develop proactive messaging and reactive strategies that protect and enhance the industry’s reputation.

NOTE: The list of essential functions is not exhaustive. It may be supplemented as necessary.

Education/ Certification: Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or equivalent experience at a credit union is preferred. Experience with project management systems such as  and/or CRM like Salesforce is preferred.

• Required Knowledge: Strong understanding of the legislative and regulatory process and the ability to craft persuasive messages on complex policy issues. Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Knowledge of the credit union industry and/or financial policy landscape strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of writing styles: Strong knowledge of writing styles and guidelines; ability to create, coordinate, and edit copy for communications channels. Knowledge of AP Style required. Intermediate MS Office application skills and Adobe Acrobat, as well as basic knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite is appreciated, but not required. Working knowledge of product and event marketing techniques. Familiarity with modern technologies and methodologies in communications, public relations, graphic and web design, and…