Communications & External Affairs Manager

About the role

Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) and its partner organizations Education Reform Now (ERN) and Education Reform Now Advocacy (ERNA) are seeking a Communications & External Affairs Manager to lead press and digital campaigns across key states. The role blends media relations, op‑ed writing, social‑media strategy, and partner briefing to advance education‑policy objectives for families nationwide.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute regional press strategies to increase earned‑media coverage in priority states.
• Pitch stories, draft op‑eds, and cultivate relationships with reporters, editors, and influencers.
• Design, launch, and monitor digital and social‑media campaigns that support policy and political goals.
• Collaborate with the National Director of External Affairs to shape messaging and respond to fast‑moving political developments.
• Brief state partners and internal teams on media opportunities and campaign performance.

Required profile

• Proven experience in communications, political campaigns, government, or nonprofit settings.
• Exceptional writing ability and a track record of securing media placements.
• Strong political instincts and familiarity with education‑policy debates.
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment and manage multiple state‑level projects.

Required skills

• Media relations and press outreach.
• Op‑ed and long‑form writing.
• Digital campaign planning and social‑media management.
• Strategic briefing and stakeholder communication.