Director Of Communications

Company: American Society of Travel Advisors
Location: Washington
Posted on: March 1, 2025

Job Description:

Position Summary:

The Director of Communications is an integral role within ASTA, overseeing and executing the organization's communications strategy, specifically as it relates to public relations and consumer advocacy and outreach.



This position serves as one of ASTA's chief spokespersons, developing and managing media relationships, handling public affairs, branding efforts, and strategic messaging.



The Director of Communications will play a pivotal role in amplifying ASTA's mission, enhancing its public image, and ensuring consistent messaging across all communications channels to effectively reach trade professionals, policymakers, and the consumer traveling public.



This position will report directly to the Vice President - Membership, Marketing, and Communications and is likely to have 1-2 direct reports with several other adjacent supporting staff.

Responsibilities:
Key Responsibilities:
Media Relations & Public Affairs:
--- Serve as a primary spokesperson for ASTA, responding to media inquiries and proactively positioning the organization in key industry discussions.
--- Develop and execute media outreach strategies to enhance ASTA's presence in both consumer and trade media.
--- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers in travel, business, and policy sectors.
--- Monitor industry trends and media coverage, providing rapid response and proactive commentary on relevant issues impacting ASTA and its members.
--- Draft and distribute press releases, media statements, op-eds, and thought leadership pieces on behalf of ASTA as a whole as well as on behalf of ASTA leadership.

Strategic Communications & Brand Management:
--- Develop and oversee the implementation of ASTA's communications strategy to reinforce its position as the voice of the travel advisor industry.
--- Ensure consistency in messaging across all platforms, aligning with ASTA's mission, advocacy efforts, and membership value propositions.
--- Oversee content development for ASTA.org, newsletters, social media, and any other avenues, ensuring alignment with broader marketing and communications goals.
--- Manage crisis communications, including developing response strategies and guiding executive leadership on media engagement during critical issues.
--- Work closely with the other ASTA departments to craft compelling messaging for campaigns, events, and any other initiatives.

Executive & Member Communications:
--- Provide communications support to ASTA's executive team, including speechwriting, media training, and presentation development.
--- Develop messaging frameworks and talking points for ASTA leadership, ensuring a unified voice on key issues.
--- Support ASTA members by providing resources and guidance on effective communications and public relations strategies within their businesses.

Digital & Social Media Strategy:
--- Along with the Director of Marketing, oversee ASTA's digital communications strategy, ensuring effective engagement across website content, email campaigns, and social media platforms.
--- Collaborate with internal teams to optimize content marketing efforts that drive awareness, advocacy, and member engagement.
--- Assist with analyzing digital performance metrics and adjust strategies to maximize outreach and impact.

Stakeholder Engagement & Events:
--- Represent ASTA at industry conferences, media events, and speaking engagements to advocate for travel advisors and the industry.
--- Collaborate with external partners, industry organizations, and government agencies to strengthen ASTA's visibility and influence.
--- Support ASTA's event communications, including the promotion of major conferences, webinars, and member meetings.


HOW TO APPLY:
Interested applicants should send a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled; interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. Flexible work arrangements (hybrid or remote considered). Recruiters: Please do not call or email regarding this position. Unsolicited outreach from recruiting agencies will not be considered.

Qualifications:
Qualifications & Experience:
--- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field and/or commensurate experience and definitive skills.
--- 8+ years of experience in strategic communications, public relations, or media relations, preferably within the travel, nonprofit, or trade association sectors.
--- Demonstrated experience serving as an organizational spokesperson and engaging with media.
--- Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
--- Expertise in crisis communications, brand management, and digital marketing strategies.
--- Proven ability to develop and execute communications strategies that drive awareness and engagement.
--- Experience managing social media and digital communications, including content creation and analytics tracking.
--- Established media relationships within travel, business, and policy sectors preferred.
--- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
--- Familiarity with policy advocacy and legislative communications is a plus.

About Company:
ASTA (The American Society of Travel Advisors) and its members represent 80 percent of all travel sold in the United States through the travel agency distribution channel. It is a leading global advocate for travel advisors, the travel industry, and the traveling public. ASTA's history of travel industry advocacy traces back to its founding in 1931 with its mission to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge, and the enhancement of professionalism.

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