The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) represents over 300 leading manufacturers of electrical equipment and medical imaging technologies. Our members make the products and systems that power safe, reliable, and energy-efficient infrastructure across the country. Collectively, they contribute nearly 1% of U.S. GDP, support almost 460,000 American jobs, and drive more than $250 billion in economic impact. At NEMA, we champion innovation and industry leadership through our core values: respect, integrity, teamwork, and leadership.
NEMA seeks a dynamic and strategic Communications Director to lead day-to-day integrated public relations and communications efforts to advance our priorities around electrification, standards development, public policy, and member engagement.
This individual will shape NEMA’s voice across channels: developing and executing earned media strategies in support of NEMA’s advocacy and standards initiatives across our four sectors, shaping core messaging for key priorities on behalf of members, and building relationships to broaden the visibility of both NEMA and our member companies.
Reporting to the Managing Director, Communications, the Communications Director will:
Develop and implement comprehensive communications strategies aligned with organizational goals
Craft compelling narratives that highlight NEMA’s leadership in policy, innovation, and industry standards
Serve as a trusted media liaison, securing earned coverage and responding to inquiries with clarity and confidence
Act as a spokesperson when appropriate and help prepare NEMA executives and members for media opportunities
Identify thought leadership opportunities and coordinate op-eds, speaking engagements, and editorial content
Partner with internal and external stakeholders to ensure consistent, high-quality messaging across platforms
The position is in Arlington, Virginia.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy & Planning
Develop and execute comprehensive communications strategies aligned with NEMA’s strategic goals and public affairs initiatives.
Collaborate across departments to ensure consistent messaging around industry issues such as electrification, grid modernization, and energy resilience.
Proactively pitch on news of the day stories and create compelling storytelling arcs.
Media & Public Relations
Serve as a first point of contact for media requests, member requests, and serve as spokesperson when appropriate.
Respond in a timely manner with actionable next steps to include briefing documents and talking points for all media interactions. Share notes with stakeholders, including recommendations on improvements and possible after actions.
Maintain a media contact database and cultivate and maintain strong relationships with national, trade, and energy sector journalists.
Lead rapid response and proactive media outreach on key industry topics.
Collaborate with the Government Relations team to conceptualize and create issue-oriented toolkits and member resources.
Track placements and opportunities and create biweekly analytical reports for senior management team.
Content Development
Oversee development of high-impact content including press releases, op-eds, fact sheets, blog posts, and digital campaigns.
Ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with NEMA’s voice and brand.
Alongside the Director, Stakeholder Communications, provide content creation and analysis for social channels to drive engagement and grow NEMA’s reach.
Member & Stakeholder Communications
Support coordination with NEMA member companies.
Provide strategic counsel and messaging support to NEMA leadership and member executives.
Team Leadership
Manage external vendors as needed.
Lead cross-functional teams for campaigns or special projects.
Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or similar; graduate degree a plus
Seven years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, or public affairs – preferably in energy, manufacturing or trade associations
High attention to detail and ability to self-edit to produce accurate, error-free content
Demonstrated leadership and team-building expertise in a results-oriented environment
Demonstrated ability to develop compelling messages on complex policy and technical issues
Demonstrated competency of news media operations, including print, online, blogs, and social channels
Strong media relations experience and established network of energy/manufacturing reporters
Ability to succinctly communicate messages and customize to different audiences
Polished verbal and written communication skills and executive presence
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Understanding of energy policy is strongly preferred
NEMA offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits package, including paid holidays, personal time, flexible working hours, 401(k) plan, health/dental insurance, health savings plan, and partial pre-tax parking/Metro subsidy.
