Associate, Public Affairs

FTS is a full-service public affairs, government relations, and communications firm helping clients navigate complex public policy, political, and reputational challenges.

We work with corporations, trade associations, nonprofits, coalitions, political candidates, and other organizations to develop and execute strategies that shape public opinion, engage stakeholders, and advance our clients’ goals.

FTS is seeking a full-time Associate to join our growing public affairs team.

Associates play an important role in the development and execution of client campaigns and work closely with senior members of the firm across a wide range of public affairs, communications, and advocacy engagements.

The ideal candidate is a strong writer, highly organized, politically aware, intellectually curious, and comfortable managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Successful candidates will take initiative, exercise sound judgment, and be eager to develop into trusted public affairs professionals.

Support day-to-day execution of client engagements, including coordinating projects, tracking deliverables, preparing client materials, and ensuring assignments are completed accurately and on deadline.

Assist in developing and executing public affairs and advocacy campaigns, including grassroots and grasstops engagement, coalition building, stakeholder outreach, third-party advocacy, and community engagement.

Conduct research on public policy, political, business, media, and community issues and translate findings into clear, actionable recommendations for clients and senior team members.

Draft and edit a range of internal and external materials, including client memoranda, talking points, briefing materials, presentations, op-eds, letters to the editor, advocacy materials, digital content, and client reports.

Support earned media efforts by researching reporters and outlets, developing media lists, assisting with pitches, monitoring coverage, and identifying opportunities to advance client objectives.

Identify and engage relevant business leaders, community organizations, advocacy groups, elected officials, and other stakeholders in support of client initiatives.

Assist with the development of proposals, research, presentations, and other materials supporting new business opportunities and the continued growth of the firm.

Monitor relevant political, legislative, regulatory, and business developments and provide timely updates and analysis to clients and internal teams.

• -3–5 years of professional experience in public affairs, government relations, communications, political campaigns, government, public policy, journalism, advocacy, or a related field.
• -Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• -Strong research and analytical abilities.
• -Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• -Ability to manage multiple assignments and competing deadlines.
• -Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with clients, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
• -Demonstrated interest in politics, public policy, business, and current events.
• -Ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment when working with sensitive or confidential information.
• -A proactive mindset and willingness to take ownership of assignments.
• -Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• -Familiarity with social media, digital communications, media monitoring, or political research tools is a plus.
• -Knowledge of South Carolina politics, government, business, and civic organizations.

FTS offers the opportunity to work directly with experienced political, public affairs, and communications professionals on consequential issues throughout South Carolina and beyond.

Associates receive meaningful responsibility early in their careers, exposure to senior-level client strategy, and opportunities to develop experience across public affairs, communications, advocacy, and political consulting.

We offer competitive compensation and benefits commensurate with experience, along with a collaborative and entrepreneurial work environment that rewards initiative, strong performance, and professional growth.