Vice President, Communications

Issue One • Washington, DC

13d • Hybrid

About The Position

Issue One is seeking a high-energy, platform-fluent communications leader to serve as Vice President, Communications. This role requires someone who can operate at the speed of the news cycle, build relationships with reporters, and understand how content spreads through online communities, not just traditional outlets. We need someone who gets how creators and voices shape conversation in digital spaces, how algorithms drive amplification, and how authenticity builds credibility with audiences who are skeptical of institutional messaging. The VP will lead Issue One's earned media strategy, rapid response program, and media relations. Working directly with the CEO, the VP will ensure Issue One is injected into breaking news conversations, quoted in major outlets, and amplified by key voices across traditional and digital media. While this role will oversee a content creation team member, the VP's primary focus is earned media and rapid response—we need someone who lives in reporters' inboxes, monitors the news obsessively, and knows how to make our spokespeople the first call when democracy stories break.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in fast-paced communications environments—campaigns, advocacy organizations, newsrooms, or Hill press offices
• Demonstrated understanding of how content spreads through networked communities—including how algorithms work, why certain content gets amplified, and how to build trust with online audiences
• Track record of securing high-impact media placements in top-tier outlets (NYT, WaPo, Politico, major networks, etc.)
• Deep, active relationships with reporters who cover democracy, politics, and policy
• Experience operating in rapid-response environments
• Exceptional news judgment—knows what's newsworthy, what's not, and how to position Issue One accordingly
• Strong writing skills with the ability to help draft and polish pieces under tight deadlines
• Willingness to work outside traditional hours when breaking news demands it
• Comfort with experimentation and iteration—this role requires trying new approaches, learning from failure, and being willing to produce content that's authentic over polished.

Responsibilities

• Lead earned media strategy and rapid response to inject Issue One into the news cycle
• Cultivate and maintain deep relationships with reporters, editors, producers, and the creators and voices who shape conversation in online communities
• Work proactively and reactively to get Issue One spokespeople quoted, interviewed, and featured in top-tier outlets
• Lead messaging strategy that translates democracy reform into accessible, newsworthy narratives
• Direct content strategy that prioritizes authenticity and reach over polish—understanding that scrappier, more human content often spreads further than institutional messaging
• Manage a small, high-performing team
• Partner with Citizen Engagement team to ensure communications supports digital organizing goals
• Prepare CEO and senior staff for media appearances, congressional testimony, and high-stakes public moments
• Track media coverage and measure impact of earned media efforts
• Lead rapid response operations
• Work with advancement team to translate our work into compelling donor communications

Benefits

• Issue One has developed a comprehensive benefits package that invests in our staff to improve their health and promote a solid work-life balance.
• All full-time employees are eligible for a platinum health plan, with Issue One paying 100% of the premium.
• The organization also covers 75% of the premium for all spouses and dependents of IO staff.
• Staff receive over 50 paid days off annually, including holidays, vacation, personal time, and office-wide closures.
• Issue One provides reimbursements and stipends for internet and commuting, and promotes a hybrid work environment that allows for working from home while establishing regular in-person office opportunities twice a week.
• Issue One offers wellness reimbursements and student loan assistance.
• Additionally, all staff members are encouraged to participate in professional development throughout the year, and the organization offers several opportunities for fun and fellowship.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees