Media Relations Assistant, Political, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies

The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) is seeking an in-person media relations assistant to promote AEI scholars work on political, social, cultural and constitutional policy. The anticipated start date for this position is as soon as possible.

The media relations assistant/associate reports to the director of media relations. Duties include:

• Promoting AEI’s Social, Cultural and Constitutional Studies scholars to media;
• Integrating scholars’ work into the national conversation;
• Building relationships with the scholars in assigned areas and with selected media outlets;
• Serving as the primary point of contact for media requests;
• Arranging media briefings;
• Drafting pitches and releases;
• Distilling complex policy issues into shorter formats;
• Promoting and facilitating media coverage of conferences and events;
• Tracking metrics; and
• Working with the communications team on special projects.

This position requires excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to translate complex policy material into clear and straightforward prose. Candidates must have a keen interest in policy and be able to handle multiple tasks in a frequently busy and demanding environment. Experience with deadlines and related work experience are preferred. Strong applicants will have existing contacts among print and online journalists, reporters, producers, and editors from national news bureaus, including TV and radio networks and cable news. The ideal candidate must also be able to think strategically and plan comprehensive media outreach. A bachelor’s degree in political science, history, or English is preferred.

We offer a stimulating and harmonious work environment and excellent benefits. Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter demonstrating their interest in AEI’s mission, academic transcript, and 500-word writing sample on any topic.

• Serve as the media point of contact for AEI’s social, cultural, and constitutional studies department, led by Yuval Levin. This portfolio also includes politics and public opinion scholars and AEI’s Survey Center on American Life, which is run by Daniel Cox.
• Promote scholars’ work to elite and specialized media—including print and online beat reporters, columnists, wire service reporters and editors, reporters and editors for specialized trade publications, TV and radio hosts, correspondents, and producers.
• Integrate AEI scholars into the national conversation by monitoring news coverage of politics, public opinion, cultural issues, Congress, and the Supreme Court. Pitch scholars and their work to appropriate media outlets.
• Synthesize scholars’ work on complex policy issues into shorter formats that can be disseminated to media outlets and on social media.
• Build relationships with all AEI’s scholars, and identify publicity goals for their work.
• Arrange regular briefings between AEI scholars and journalists.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for media requests for AEI scholars in assigned areas.
• Edit op-eds and other commentary, and submit them on behalf of scholars.
• Track all media coverage of AEI scholars and their work in the field of political, social, cultural, and constitutional studies.
• Plan and execute major promotional efforts for special publications and projects (produced by scholars in assigned areas) by coordinating and working with other members of the communications team (including the Digital Strategy, Design, and Video departments).

• Physical requirements and Working Conditions:

  • The employee is regularly expected to stand, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work.
  • The employee must be able to lift up to 30 pounds at times.
  • The employee must be able to work in a confined area.
  • Moderate noise (i.e. computers, phone, printers, and light traffic) is expected.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities associated with this position.

• Candidates should be able to establish and maintain effective relationships with AEI scholars and important members of the national media.
• A degree in political science, history, or English is preferred. Experience working in a Washington, DC, newsroom or press office is a plus, as is a special interest or focus in political, cultural, and legal issues.
• Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to work well in a team environment are required.
• An interest in current events and major policy debates is required.
• A keen sense of the news cycle and an interest in the legislative process are required.
• Candidates must be assertive, creative, and confident in pitching AEI scholars and their work to the media.
• Candidates must be able to think strategically and plan comprehensive media and marketing campaigns.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, and Excel) is required. Experience with Salesforce and familiarity with AP style are pluses.
• Existing contacts with print and online journalists, reporters, producers, and editors from national news bureaus, including TV and radio networks and cable news, are a plus.