Advocacy Communications Manager

The American Academy of Ophthalmology is looking for an Advocacy Communications Manager. You will act as a communications lead supporting the Government Affairs Division. The Advocacy Communications Manager develops, manages and implements advocacy communications plans to inform and engage members, including a weekly e-newsletter and member alerts. Develops outreach strategies for the Academy’s political fundraising, including OPHTHPAC and the Surgical Scope Fund. Manages and creates communications for the website and social media channels. Works with state society stakeholders to ensure message cohesion for state-based advocacy. Annually develops, manages, and markets the Advocacy Mid-Year Report. Liaison directly with the Academy’s physician leaders on member communications issues and opportunities. Collaborates with and supports public relations team on public advocacy campaigns. Creates strategic communication plans/campaigns/projects for member communications on specific Governmental Affairs' initiatives or projects to build awareness of the Academy’s advocacy initiatives and accomplishments among Academy members Produces weekly Washington Report Express newsletter Drafts all advocacy-related submissions to Academy Publications including but not limited to, Academy Express and EyeNet magazine Provides writing and editing support to Governmental Affairs staff for member alerts, presentations, divisional reports and physician leadership communications needs Maintains the advocacy section of the Academy's website, ensuring that content is consistently updated and well presented Requirements: 5+ years related experience acceptable Prior experience in journalism and/or experience in advocacy preferred Knowledge of the elements of journalistic style (e.g., Associated Press style) and English grammar and sentence structure Knowledge of communication fundamentals including how to construct and implement a communications plan Basic understanding of health issues, including the role of government and health policy and other physician/member concerns Working knowledge of traditional and new communications mediums (e.g., email, website, blogs, social media sites) Working knowledge of the use of multi-media in communications (e.g., video, podcasts) Excellent writing and editing skills Budget development and oversight skills Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with excellent project management skills Strong problem-solving skills and analytical skills Strong computer skills (MS Word, SmartDoc) and accurate typing. Prior experience with an Association Management Database helpful but not mandatory Ability to generate creative concepts and draft communication plans into clear written communications that support strategic goals Ability to grasp complex subjects (such as Medicare reimbursement process) and "translate" into information the membership and ophthalmic trade press can understand Ability to be detail-oriented and a "big picture" thinker Ability to influence internal staff to generate results Self-starter, with ability to work independently as well as collaboratively Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines and budget constraints Bachelor’s or higher-level degree in Communications, Journalism or Public Relations preferred Experience in political fundraising helpful Current COVID vaccination required Remote – with manager approval, this position is eligible for up to 3 remote work days per week