Rapid Response Director

**Location:** Washington, DC **Type of Employment:** Full-Time**Overall Responsibility:** America First Works (AFW) is seeking a Rapid Response Director to lead and coordinate the organization’s real-time issue advocacy and communications efforts in response to breaking news, legislative developments, and emerging opportunities.

The ideal candidate is a fast-moving, highly strategic communicator with a deep understanding of the media cycle, policy landscape, and political environment—all in service of advancing the America First Agenda.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Lead AFW’s rapid response operations, including the development and deployment of immediate communications and advocacy strategies tied to breaking news or policy shifts.
• Coordinate with the AFW Executive Director and the communication team to ensure unified messaging across platforms and audiences.
• Draft and approve rapid-response materials such as press statements, digital content, op-eds, talking points, and issue briefs.
• Monitor federal and state legislative activity, media coverage, and political developments for timely response opportunities.
• Serve as a key point of contact with media and strategic partners during high-profile moments or crisis communications scenarios.
• Manage and update rapid response protocols to ensure cross-team agility and readiness.
• Work closely with the digital team to amplify rapid response content through social, email, and web channels.
• Coordinate with field and coalition partners to activate grassroots or grasstops support as needed.
• Provide briefing materials and real-time updates to senior leadership and spokespeople during priority developments.
• Track and report on rapid response efforts, media hits, and engagement metrics to inform strategy and future planning. **Qualifications:**
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, political science, public relations, journalism, or a related field; advanced degree a plus.
• 5–8 years of experience in communications, public affairs, political campaigns, or policy advocacy—preferably within a fast-paced, issue-driven environment.
• Demonstrated success in executing rapid response strategies with measurable impact.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, especially under tight deadlines.
• Strong news judgment and deep understanding of media cycles and political narratives.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally and lead collaborative, time-sensitive projects.
• Experience managing media relations, messaging strategy, and digital coordination.
• Comfortable representing the organization in high-pressure situations or during crisis moments.
• Ability to work extended hours or respond after hours during high-priority developments.
• Familiarity with media monitoring tools, CRM systems, and digital publishing platforms. **Compensation:** Salaries for positions will be commensurate with the experience, expertise, and skills of the individual.#J-18808-Ljbffr