Associate Director

Breakwater Strategy, a strategic insights and communications agency, is seeking an experienced professional to join our growing team of strategists. The ideal candidate will serve as a key strategic advisor to clients across multiple industries, helping them develop and execute effective communications strategies to achieve their business objectives.

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, stays current with industry and policy trends, and is ready to lead client teams with precision and excellence.

• Serve as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for clients, managing day-to-day relationships while delivering strategic insights and optimizing team strengths to meet client needs
• 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 client deliverables while thinking ahead and communicating next steps to teams
• Develop and execute strategic communications plans, messaging frameworks, and thought leadership initiatives
• Test assumptions and contribute to internal debate on client challenges and needs
• Lead the development of media strategies including pitch angles and reporter targets
• Provide mentorship and coaching to junior staff, supporting their professional development

• 5-10 years of relevant experience in strategic communications, public affairs, public policy or management consulting
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree a plus
• 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 work streams, 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