Director, Media Relations

The National Retail Federation is a trade association that advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail succeed. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $5.3 trillion to annual GDP and supporting more than one in four U.S. jobs. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies. 

Direct NRF’s key media relations efforts to advance the organization’s strategic goals, elevate coverage of policy positions, research and events, strengthen NRF’s visibility and reputation, and promote a positive narrative for the retail industry.

• Direct the development and implementation of NRF’s media relations strategy to advance organizational priorities, increase brand visibility, and support the interests of the retail industry
• Draft press releases, statements and other materials relating to policy positions, research and NRF events
• Oversee interviews conducted in NRF’s media studio
• Staff NRF spokespersons with print and broadcast interviews as needed
• Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with reporters, editors, producers, and other key media contacts to expand NRF’s reach and influence
• Develop and deliver timely information to the press to build a positive media narrative surrounding the retail industry
• Lead cross-divisional collaboration to develop and align messaging on policy positions, industry trends, economic issues, and consumer research, ensuring consistency with NRF priorities and strategic objectives
• Develop opportunities for social media content across NRF-branded channels
• Lead media outreach and registration strategy for NRF events and activities, including Retail’s Big Show, to maximize visibility, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and support business objectives
• Manage fulfillment of NRF event media barter agreements
• Manage the media calendar
• Track, analyze, and communicate NRF’s share of voice and media performance on priority issues to inform strategy and guide decision-making
• Monitor consumer and industry trends and assess issues impacting the retail industry.
• Support and contribute to broader internal and external strategic initiatives, serving as a key communications partner on high-priority organizational efforts
• Leverage AI-enabled tools to enhance media monitoring, analyze coverage trends, inform messaging strategy, and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of media relations efforts
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or related discipline
• At least six years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public affairs, media relations, or marketing, including experience leading strategic media initiatives and high-visibility campaigns
• Hill experience a plus
• Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to translate complex and technical issues into clear, compelling messaging for external and internal audiences
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, while managing multiple projects and driving results
• Demonstrated strategic judgment, sound decision-making, and professional initiative, with the ability to independently assess opportunities, manage competing priorities, and drive results
• Familiarity with Cision or other PR and media databases
• Excellent presentation skills
• Creative problem-solving skills
• Strong interpersonal, influencing, and leadership skills, with the ability to build credibility, work effectively across functions, and manage external relationships with confidence and professionalism
• Ability to travel (up to 10%)

Location: Washington, D.C. (In-office 3 days a week) 

How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit an application with their resume and cover letter.

National Retail Federation (NRF) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to any legally protected characteristic. This applies to all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, pay, promotion, development, and termination.