Vice President, Earned Media - Conservative Media Relations

ABOUT RATIONAL 360

Rational 360 is a leading, independently owned, DC-based strategic communications and public affairs firm with deep expertise across media relations, public policy, corporate reputation, and digital strategy. Our team of professionals works with a diverse set of clients including Fortune 500 companies, trade associations, national nonprofits, and advocacy groups operating in highly regulated and politically sensitive environments. We are entrepreneurial, client-focused, and committed to results.

Rational 360 has approximately 100 staff and is growing rapidly. We are partially employee-owned and offer a collaborative, high-performance culture that rewards innovation, leadership, and initiative.

ROLE OVERVIEW

Rational 360 is seeking a Vice President of Earned Media with a strong understanding of and deep relationships within the conservative media ecosystem. This role is ideal for a strategic communicator and media relations expert who has successfully placed high-impact stories, shaped narratives, and managed media relations for complex or politically charged campaigns.

This position will lead earned media strategy and execution across a range of client accounts—particularly those operating at the intersection of policy, business, and public opinion. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in public affairs or political communications, a track record of working with right-of-center outlets and influencers, and a sharp understanding of today’s media and political landscape.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the strategic lead for earned media strategy and execution across multiple client accounts.
• Cultivate and leverage deep relationships with conservative and center-right media outlets, editors, producers, journalists, and influencers.
• Develop and execute proactive media outreach strategies aligned with client goals, targeting relevant publications and platforms.
• Shape and pitch compelling stories, op-eds, and interview opportunities that resonate within conservative and broader national media narratives.
• Provide rapid response and crisis communications support, helping clients navigate politically sensitive or high-profile media situations.
• Partner with internal teams on integrated communications campaigns that include digital, grassroots, and policy components.
• Mentor and manage junior staff, ensuring strong execution and professional growth.

Support new business development and growth of media service offerings.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

• 10–13 years of relevant experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or political strategy.
• Demonstrated expertise in placing earned media with conservative outlets (e.g., Fox News, Daily Caller, Washington Examiner, National Review, etc.) and center-right influencers.
• Deep understanding of the conservative political landscape, including key issues, platforms, and audiences.
• Excellent strategic judgment and experience managing high-profile media campaigns and complex messaging environments.
• Impeccable writing and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft sharp messaging that resonates with target audiences.
• Experience working in fast-paced, high-stakes environments—ideally within a PR agency, campaign, media outlet, or government office.
• Proven ability to manage teams, lead clients, and execute projects from concept through completion.
• Familiarity with political, policy, or advocacy work is strongly preferred.

• Rational 360 offers competitive compensation and a generous, comprehensive benefits package.
• Our hybrid work model includes three days per week in our downtown DC office and two optional remote workdays.