Director – Crisis Communications

Bully Pulpit International

Director of Crisis Communications leading strategic efforts for clients at Bully Pulpit International. Managing client relationships and navigating high-pressure situations in public affairs and media relations.

Posted 6/26/2026full-timeWashington • District of Columbia, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $110,000 - $135,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead strategic efforts for clients navigating serious public challenges and reputational risks.
Act as the primary point of contact for corporate leaders and legal teams.
Create and run communications plans to handle active threats.
Coordinate with internal teams specializing in data, digital media, and creative design.
Draft high-stakes materials under tight deadlines.
Manage incoming media inquiries and proactively ensure client’s narrative is told accurately.
Shape stories directly with journalists to protect a client’s brand.
Manage internal teams across offices to assure accuracy and timeliness of work.
Act as a manager and coach for junior staff during crisis communication situations.
Work with agency leadership to draft client-ready proposals and identify new business opportunities.

Requirements

What you’ll need

8–10+ years in public affairs, PR, or strategic comms (agency + in-house or political background preferred).
Master of AP Style; ability to pivot between creative storytelling and analytical strategic reporting.
Proficiency in media monitoring software (Cision, Meltwater) and social media marketing platforms.
Proven track record of managing multi-client deliverables, leading cross-functional teams with independence, and drafting quality, successful proposals.
Ability to stay calm and provide "real-time" recommendations under high-pressure, tight-timeline scenarios.
Understanding and appreciation for the 24-7 modern communications landscape, and the work ethic and ethos that requires.
Excellent writing and verbal presentation skills are baseline requirements for this position.

Benefits

Comp & perks

100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) program with employer match up to 4%
Generous time off for vacation
$50 monthly phone reimbursement
Unlimited sick time
16 weeks of paid leave for new parents

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

strategic communicationscrisis communicationmedia monitoringproposal writingstorytellinganalytical reportingclient managementcross-functional team leadershiphigh-pressure decision makingAP Style

Soft Skills

leadershipcoachingcommunicationcalm under pressuretime managementcreativityadaptabilityinterpersonal skillsproblem-solvingnarrative shaping