Public Affairs Communications Director

At Early Warning, we’ve powered and protected the U.S. financial system for over thirty years with cutting-edge solutions like Zelle®, Paze℠, and so much more. As a trusted name in payments, we partner with thousands of institutions to increase access to financial services and protect transactions for hundreds of millions of consumers and small businesses.

Positions located in Scottsdale, San Francisco, Chicago, or New York follow a hybrid work model to allow for a more collaborative working environment.

Candidates responding to this posting must independently possess the eligibility to work in the United States, for any employer, at the date of hire. This position is ineligible for employment Visa sponsorship.

The position is located in Washington DC.

Overall Purpose 

The Public Affairs Communications director plays a critical role in leading and executing Early Warning’s external communications strategy supporting public affairs and issues management communications. This position is responsible for collaborating with cross-functional teams to shape and communicate the company’s advocacy programs and position senior leaders to effectively reach key stakeholders, including the media and targeted external audiences. 

Essential Functions  

• Designs communications programs and shapes narrative in support of the company’s public affairs agenda.  Provides company thought leadership and executive positioning strategies to enhance visibility and impact of key leaders. 

• Develops communications strategy and content presenting the company's policy positions including talking points, stand-by statements, FAQs, issue backgrounders, fact sheets, blogs, op-eds, opinion papers, meetings, conferences, and industry associations. 

• Monitors media environment on current and emerging public affairs issues and develops/executes strategies to ensure EWS narrative resonates.  

• Navigates complex policy landscapes, crafts compelling supporting narratives, and engages with a variety of audiences to drive favorable outcomes.  

• Provides Communications support to the Legal team. 

• Partners with third-party stakeholders to further our story in the media. 

• Tracks and supports engagement with financial institutions.  

• Develops and maintains relationships with political analysts.  

• Advises and preps EWS leaders for external events and media interviews. 

• Manages media engagements (proactive and reactive) related to public affairs communications activity. 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Education and experience typically obtained through completion of a bachelor’s degree in public relations, public policy or communications.  

• Minimum of 10 years of relevant public relations and public affairs experience. 

• Experience creating and launching public affairs campaigns that include paid and earned media, third-party engagement and digital/social amplification. 

• Media and issues management experience. 

• Possess strong media training and coaching skills. 

• Deep understanding of thought leadership development, planning, and channels including LinkedIn, conferences, and other existing or emerging thought leadership platforms. 

• Experience in managing people, agencies, and cross-functional teams, projects and programs 

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under deadline pressure. 

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships, both inside and outside the organization. 

• Exceptional business judgment, strategic thinking skills, and attention to detail. 

• Superb verbal and written communication skills with command of AP Style. 

• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

• Ability to see around corners and adapt plans to capitalize on opportunities and/or minimize risk. 

• High level of personal and professional integrity, with ability to manage sensitive and confidential information. 

• Drug screen and background check. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Master’s degree in communications, public relations or public policy. 

• Existing network of media and other influencers. 

• Experience working for a financial services organization or a bank. 

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow instructions and perfo