Director of Communications

The International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world’s oldest and largest organization representing franchising globally, with over 60 years of excellence in advocacy and education. Dedicated to protecting, enhancing, and promoting franchising, the IFA supports its members through government relations, public relations, and comprehensive educational initiatives. Its members include franchise companies spanning over 120 business categories, as well as franchisees and industry suppliers.

IFA prioritizes the highest professional standards and is committed to advancing franchising as a premier driver of business growth worldwide.

This is a full-time, hybrid role for a Communications Director located in Washington, DC.

Salary: 120k to 140k

The Director, Communications is responsible for executing and supporting the day-to-day internal and external communications strategy and tactics for the International Franchise Association. Responsibilities include media relations, member communications, social media strategy and content, new media, executive positioning, development of materials, and advising on messaging. This individual must possess a deep understanding of political and business communication, organizational priorities, and considerations surrounding a member-facing organization.

This position will report to the vice president of communications while providing guidance to a team of communications specialists and external consultants.

• Production and editing of wide-ranging communications materials including communications plans, press releases, op-eds and articles, member communications, social media posts and content, visuals, scripts, speeches, talking points, and more
• Drive communications strategy to support organizational priorities and promotion of the franchise business model
• Build and maintain relationships with members of the media, regularly staying in touch with key reporters, proactively pitching ideas, closely monitoring current events and news cycles, and presenting media opportunities
• Draft and oversee various IFA communications channels including newsletters, websites, columns, and social media in conjunction with IFA’s marketing team
• Lead on executive communications and positioning for IFA President and CEO including speaking engagements, media opportunities, thought leadership, social media, writing opportunities, and member communication, among others – and staffing IFA leadership for various engagements accordingly
• Stay apprised of media and social media trends, regularly suggesting ideas and best practices through continued education
• Review and edit organization-wide outbound communications materials, serving as an internal lead for review of any public facing materials
• Advise on external communications to IFA staff and leadership
• Other duties as assigned, such as, but not limited to, photography, website management, social media management, video development and production, graphic and visual communication

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, political science, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 6-8 years’ experience in political communications, public affairs, or media relations/advocacy.
• Senior communications management role either in-house, with an agency, or on Capitol Hill preferred.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in media relations with a proven track record of established media contacts and results and demonstrated skill and comfort in proactively building relationships with target reporters.
• Extensive successful writing and editing experience on complicated subject matter, with an ability to meet deadlines and turn projects quickly and free of errors. Must have a keen eye for detail.
• Demonstrated experience and leadership in managing comprehensive strategic communications, media relations, and an external communications program to advance an organization's mission and goals.
• Ability to apply innovative and strategic thinking to plans; ability to apply excellent judgment and creative problem-solving skills; excellent negotiation and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to make confident decisions on direction, anticipate and navigate changes in the environment as they occur, and understand the business climate and franchise business model.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to speak confidently, persuasively, and effectively when interfacing with senior management, Board of Directors, and staff.
• This position must be located in Washington, DC, with occasional travel.

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to careers