Sr. Director, Membership, Communications, and Industry Relations

The Senior Director of Media and Stakeholder Engagement, supports the SVP of Membership, Communications, and Industry Relations in developing and executing integrated communication strategies that advance the organization’s mission, strengthen member engagement, and elevate the organization’s reputation. This role oversees day-to-day communications operations, manages content development across platforms, and ensures consistent, high-quality messaging internally and externally. The Senior Director supervises communication consultants and works collaboratively across departments to support strategic initiatives and organizational priorities.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

Perform all job responsibilities in a manner that meets or exceeds the standards established by the USDEC Way:

1. Works as a team member, recognizing that USDEC wins and loses together.
2. Respects and values colleagues. This includes considering roles, responsibilities, work styles, perspectives, and experience.
3. Trusts others as professionals working towards the same objectives & goals.
4. Communicates respectfully, inclusively, clearly, and in a timely manner.
5. Acknowledges, celebrates, and rewards good work and contributions.
6. Supports and creates opportunities for individual learning, growth, and mentorship
7. Fosters an environment of trust where people can share new ideas, innovates, takes risks, and learns from failure
8. Creates a safe environment that will empower and encourage the voicing of concerns and viewpoints.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the SVP of Membership in developing, refining, and implementing a multi-channel communications strategy aligned with organizational goals.
• Execute high-level strategic priorities into actionable communication plans, timelines, and deliverables for staff and consultants.
• Conduct ongoing environmental scanning and proactively identify communication opportunities that advance organizational initiatives.
• Serve as a secondary spokesperson for the organization, providing backup for the SVP of Membership and Executive Office as needed.
• Manage incoming media inquiries and coordinate press engagement, ensuring timely, accurate responses.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists and trade media contacts to increase understanding and visibility of the organization’s work.
• Draft press statements, talking points, and media briefings; prepare leaders for interviews and public appearances.
• Oversee the development and execution of content across platforms, including newsletters, reports, email communications, and website updates.
• Manage the work of communications and publications consultants, ensuring quality control, alignment with messaging priorities, and adherence to timelines.
• Ensure editorial accuracy, brand consistency, and professional presentation across all written and digital materials.
• Support the planning and execution of communication materials for legislative priorities, events, and industry initiatives.
• Draft and package communications for policy updates, organizational statements, and issue briefs.
• Develop and manage internal communication processes to keep staff informed of organizational initiatives, priorities, and updates.
• Collaborate with department leads to gather content and ensure consistent messaging throughout the organization.
• Oversee day-to-day management of digital content, including website updates, email marketing, and social media scheduling.
• Ensure digital channels reflect current organizational priorities and engage members and stakeholders effectively.
• Coordinate analytics tracking and provide regular performance insights to inform strategy adjustments.
• Support the development and maintenance of crisis communication protocols.
• Draft holding statements, FAQs, and internal guidance during sensitive or urgent situations, in coordination with the SVP and Executive Office.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience in creating and managing communication plans.
• Strong media relations skills with an established network of media contacts in the agriculture or trade press.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate
• complex issues clearly and persuasively.
• Proven ability to develop and implement successful communications strategies and campaigns.
• Experience managing crisis communications and navigating sensitive issues.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities, with a history of mentoring and developing teams.
• Knowledge of digital communications strategies and platforms.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners and stakeholders
• Growth mindset

Education & Experience:

• University degree – BS/BA required
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in communications or public relations, with at least 1-3 years in a leadership role. Experience in agriculture and/or food sector or a related industry is highly desirable.

We regret it is not possible to communicate with candidates except those who most closely match our current business needs. Thank you.

U.S. Dairy Export Council is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, gender, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Benefits

Competitive medical, dental, and life insurance benefits as well as ample paid time away (vacation, personal, sick, and company holidays). Generous 401(k), and collaborative culture.