National Security Strategic Communications Director (Legislative Affairs Focus) (TS/SCI Security Clearance Required)

Join Our Talented Team at ProtagonistWe fuse rigorous, methodologically sound analysis with our cutting-edge technology platform, Narrative Analytics®. This powerful combination enables us to quantitatively analyze open-source media, deliver strategic recommendations, and craft executive-level communication strategies for clients with missions that matter.Why Us?Our team is a vibrant mix of communication specialists, data scientists, and subject matter experts with extensive experience across U.S. Government agencies, non-profit organizations, and Fortune 500 companies. By joining Protagonist, you'll immerse yourself in a collaborative environment where innovation thrives, and your contributions truly matter.What We DoInnovative Solutions: We co-develop cutting-edge solutions with our clients to address tough communication problems and capitalize on opportunities to make a tangible impact.Data-Driven Insights: Our tools and methodologies provide actionable insights that help clients meet their communication objectives and stay ahead of global challenges.Applied Expertise: We integrate our solutions within client organizations, leveraging our profound expertise to address critical issues and ensure sustainable success.Be Part of Something BiggerAt Protagonist, you'll work on compelling projects that make a real difference. We seek talented individuals eager to contribute to our mission and grow alongside us. If you're passionate about communication, data analysis, and making an impact, we invite you to explore a career with Protagonist.Explore Your Future with Us!Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us at Protagonist and be part of a team that's making a difference.Job DescriptionProtagonist is seeking a National Security Strategic Communications Director (Legislative Affairs Focus) to support a high-visibility national security initiative.This role sits at the center of the engagement—you will own the client relationship, shape the strategic direction of the work, and guide a distributed team delivering analysis and communication products.If you can sit across from senior leaders, understand what they actually need (not just what they say), and turn that into direction for a team, this is your lane. This is a high-autonomy, high-visibility role where you'll shape both the client relationship and the work itself, not just execute against it.ResponsibilitiesServe as the primary interface to senior U.S. Government stakeholdersSet the strategic direction for the engagement and ensure all work aligns to client prioritiesTranslate client needs into clear guidance for analysts and communications staffLead development of communication strategies, plans, and high-impact productsDevelop Legislative engagement strategies and stakeholder management plansAnticipate emerging issues and shape work before the client asks for itManage and mentor a distributed teamMaintain strong relationships across client and internal leadershipRequirementsThe position requires on-site work (occasional remote opportunities) in the Washington Metropolitan Area (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) for a Federal Government client. Occasional domestic travel may be requiredActive TS/SCI clearance requiredBachelor's degree with 10+ years of work experience or advanced degree with 7+ years of work experience in communication, marketing, psychology, political science, or other social science fields. Relevant military or prior government experience in lieu of a four-year degree consideredExperience advising senior government leaders on high-visibility national security initiatives (DoD strongly preferred)Proven ability to lead complex engagements and influence decision-makingStrong communicator who can translate complex topics into clear messagingExperience working the Hill, or in Legislative Affairs, strongly desiredBackground in defense, space, or national security environments is a plusAdditional InformationIf you're passionate about technology and making an impact, apply today! Protagonist is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and innovating environment where everyone's voice can make a difference.Protagonist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.Salary Range: $124,000-$190,000 based on education and level of relevant experience.Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.