Head of News and Media Relations

Head of News and Media Relations – U.S. Travel Association

Are you a media powerhouse with a relentless drive for securing national headlines? Do you thrive in the fast-moving world of breaking news, where policy, advocacy, business, and finance intersect with the travel industry? U.S. Travel is seeking a go-getter with a proven track record of delivering top-tier media results—especially in broadcast.

In this role, you’ll be the driving force behind U.S. Travel’s media presence, ensuring our message is heard loud and clear across national, Beltway, and business outlets. Success means a constant drumbeat of media coverage—from securing high-impact placements to shaping narratives in real time. You’ll need a sharp understanding of the policy and advocacy landscape and the ability to position U.S. Travel at the center of national conversations.

What You’ll Do:

• Own the news cycle. Drive daily press opportunities for U.S. Travel’s leadership and priorities, with a sharp focus on broadcast, legacy media, Beltway outlets, and digital platforms.


• Be a media rainmaker. Cultivate and leverage relationships with key reporters, producers, and editors covering policy, business, and the travel industry—especially those in Washington, D.C., and New York.


• Break through the noise. Proactively pitch and secure top-tier media coverage in a crowded policy and business landscape.


• Stay ahead of the curve. Monitor breaking news and policy developments to ensure U.S. Travel is in the conversations that benefit our agenda.


• Lead and collaborate. Work alongside the SVP of Communications to shape and execute a high-impact media strategy.


• Manage the message. Craft compelling press releases, statements, and talking points on tight deadlines to keep up with the fast-moving news cycle.


• Equip our spokespeople for success. Prepare U.S. Travel leaders for media interviews, ensuring they are armed with sharp messaging and data-driven insights.


• Navigate issues management. Work closely with the policy team to shape responses to legislative and regulatory developments affecting the travel industry.


• Make an impact at major events. Support media operations at U.S. Travel’s flagship events, including IPW.

What You Bring to the Table:

• Unwavering responsiveness. You thrive in high-pressure environments and move at the speed of news.


• Insider media savvy. A deep understanding of the national and Beltway media landscape, with strong existing relationships.


• Policy fluency. A solid grasp of the federal policymaking process and how it impacts the travel industry.


• Flawless communication skills. Sharp writing, AP Style mastery, and the ability to translate complex issues into compelling narratives.


• Education. Bachelor’s degree in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, or a related field 


• Experience. At least 10 years work experience in a media relations, communications, or public affairs role, with 5 years of leadership experience overseeing teams and directing media strategies. 

If you’re a media strategist who thrives on the adrenaline of the news cycle, understands the intersection of policy and business, and has the tenacity to keep U.S. Travel in the headlines, we want to hear from you.

Other:

• Position based in Washington, DC. U.S. Travel staff work in the office Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays.


• Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 


• Salary range: 175-200K

Benefits:

• Comprehensive healthcare package with fertility coverage


• Generous paid leave including family leave


• Snacks, lunches, and many opportunities for social connections


• Transportation and cell phone benefits


• Robust wellness initiatives and Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)


• Education and professional development assistance