Director, Strategic Communications & Media Relattions

Director, Strategic Communications & Media Relations SupportLocation: Arlington, VA (Hybrid) | Full Remote Considered for the Right CandidateThe Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing uncrewed systems, autonomy, and robotics. We represent corporations and professionals from more than 60 countries working across industry, government, and academia.Our members are shaping the future of the defense, civil, and commercial sectors through innovation in drones, automated and remotely operated ground and maritime vehicles, and related technologies. At AUVSI, we are proud to be the leading voice of a rapidly growing industry that is transforming the way the world moves, connects, and defends.The OpportunityAUVSI is seeking a Director of Strategic Communications & Media Relations to lead the organization’s national media engagement and external narrative strategy.This role is responsible for ensuring AUVSI’s voice is consistently represented in influential media conversations around autonomy, robotics, defense innovation, supply chain security, and emerging technologies. The Director will focus on proactive media engagement, strategic message development, and executive communications, working closely with AUVSI leadership, Government Affairs, and Public Affairs teams to turn policy priorities and industry developments into clear, compelling narratives.This role serves as the organization’s primary strategist for media relations and external messaging, ensuring AUVSI remains a leading voice shaping public understanding of the autonomy ecosystem.Key ResponsibilitiesMedia Strategy and EngagementDevelop and execute AUVSI’s national and trade media engagement strategyBuild and maintain relationships with reporters covering defense, technology, robotics, aviation, and industrial policyIdentify and proactively pitch story opportunities tied to industry developments and policy prioritiesSecure media interviews and commentary opportunities for AUVSI leadershipMonitor media coverage and identify opportunities for engagement or responseStrategic Messaging and Narrative DevelopmentTranslate policy and industry developments into clear external messagingDraft op-eds, commentary, and thought leadership pieces for AUVSI leadershipDevelop messaging frameworks tied to major advocacy initiatives and industry developmentsSupport the development of executive talking points and briefing materialsExecutive CommunicationsWork closely with the CEO and leadership team to:Prepare media interviews and public remarksIdentify high-impact opportunities for commentary and thought leadershipDevelop strategic message positioning aligned with AUVSI’s prioritiesRapid Response CommunicationsCoordinate timely statements and commentary on major industry or policy developmentsDevelop messaging to support AUVSI’s response to emerging issuesQualifications8+ years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, or public affairsStrong relationships with national and trade mediaExperience developing executive messaging and thought leadershipAbility to translate complex policy or technology issues into accessible narrativesExperience working in policy, technology, defense, or emerging technology sectors preferredExcellent writing, messaging, and media strategy skillsSupervision• NoneWork EnvironmentThis position will be based in our Arlington, VA office on a hybrid schedule (minimum of three days per week in the office)Willing to travel up to 30% of the timeEqual Employment Opportunity (EEO)As we lead our industry to new heights, our core values keep us grounded. They describe the shared beliefs and commitments that bring us together and make us a powerful advocate for autonomous technology. When we operate from our values, they inspire our daily actions, including how we work with each other and serve our members. AUVSI is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our team and partners. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.AI in Our Recruiting ProcessAUVSI is committed to a fair, transparent, and efficient hiring experience. To support our recruiting team, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools at various stages of the hiring process. These tools may assist with:Resume screening — AI may help identify candidates whose qualifications align with the requirements of the roleInterview scheduling — Automated systems may be used to coordinate and confirm interview logisticsCandidate communications — Some outreach or status update messages may be generated or facilitated by AIAssessments — If applicable, AI-assisted tools may be used to evaluate skills or responses as part of a structured assessmentHuman oversight is central to our process. All meaningful hiring decisions, including whether to advance or select a candidate, are made by our recruiting and hiring team members. AI is used only as a supporting tool, never as the sole decision-maker.We take your privacy seriously. Any personal data processed through AI tools is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable data protection laws.If you have questions about how AI is used in our hiring process or would like to request a human review of any AI-assisted evaluation, please contact us at HR@auvsi.org.Join us at AUVSI and help shape the future of autonomous innovation.Apply today at careers@auvsi.org and be part of the team advancing uncrewed systems and autonomy worldwide.