Media and Events Specialist

ABOUT FREEDOM HOUSE:

Established more than 80 years ago on the core conviction that freedom flourishes in democratic nations where governments are accountable to their people, Freedom House is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that works to defend and expand freedom globally to help secure a world where all are free. Around the world, repressive regimes are preventing billions of people from exercising their fundamental rights. We identify and analyze threats to freedom, mobilize decision makers to respond to those threats and seize opportunities for progress, and support activists and organizations working to defend and expand freedom. We are dedicated to ensuring that the United States serves as a positive model of democratic practice at home and a consistent champion of freedom globally. By gathering authoritative data and leveraging our global networks, Freedom House is an unwavering beacon in protecting human rights and promoting democratic governance.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Media and Events Specialist will contribute to Freedom House’s public relations efforts, pursuing and coordinating media opportunities and other public speaking engagements for Freedom House experts, and advancing the organization’s mission in the US and around the globe. The position will work across the organization, coordinating closely with programs, advocacy, and research staff. The position will report to the Public Relations Director.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND EXPECTATIONS:

• Day-to-day media relations: proactively pitch stories, field incoming press inquiries, and coordinate interviews for Freedom House experts
• Draft talking points, message maps, news releases and advisories, statements, media kits, fact sheets, emails, and other public relations materials as needed
• Help prepare Freedom House experts for media interviews by outlining logistical details, sending or preparing talking points, and providing information about the interviewer and outlet
• Investigate public speaking opportunities and help prepare Freedom House experts for opportunities with background research, key messages, and logistical details
• Help keep executives informed of breaking news and support responses to major events, including to current and potential human-rights crises
• Use media monitoring and analysis tools, such as Cision, Critical Mention, or Muckrack to track, measure and analyze the results of earned media outreach and prepare reports and presentations that help inform our strategy and tactics
• Work closely with communication, advocacy, program, and research colleagues to ensure consistent use of narrative and key messaging across multiple audiences and contexts
• Develop, maintain, and nurture relationships with top-tier media in the US and around the globe
• Contribute to the overall strategy of the communication team
• Help build and maintain Freedom House media contacts database
• Help support social media channels as needed
• Other related duties as assigned

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or related field
• Three years of relevant communications experience, preferably in agency, nonprofit, or public policy settings
• Two years of media relations experience, including knowledge of media databases
• Knowledge of democracy, human rights, and foreign policy, preferred

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong writer and editor in English for print, web, social media, email
• Able to communicate verbally and in writing complex topics effectively and concisely
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, oral and written, for effective interaction with internal staff, external contacts, and diverse stakeholders
• Superb attention to detail and an ability to produce error-free work on tight deadlines
• Ability to take a balanced, principled stand on democracy issues independent of political party lines
• Must be a self-starter with professional poise, sound judgment, and ability to work well as part of a team
• Ability to thrive in a creative, fast-paced, and highly professional environment that emphasizes excellence, collegiality, and teamwork
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

General Working Conditions:

• General working office environment or telecommuting
• May require long hours including evenings and weekends to complete tasks

Work Environment and Physical Demands:
Essential functions are typically performed in an office or remote hybrid work setting. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Diversity makes our work stronger. We actively seek a diverse applicant pool and encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
• Freedom House provides a strong benefits package, including a 403(b)-retirement account, commuter benefits, flexible hours, floating holidays, high employer contributions to medical, dental, and vision premiums, basic and voluntary life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability, flexible spending account, and more.
• Salaries are commensurate with experience and based on pay grades that prioritize equity across the organization. This range for this position starts at $52,000 and may extend to $65,000 based on experience and qualifications.
• Staff members are currently working remotely or partially remotely due to Covid-19. This position will start partially remote and move to a hybrid work arrangement as of January 30, 2023. This position will be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement within the DMV area.
• Candidates must independently possess long-term authorization to work in the United States. Freedom House will not sponsor work visas.

Disclaimer: This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job. It is not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. The responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the jobholder may differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, may be part of the job. Freedom House may add, change, or remove essential and other duties at any time.