The American Apparel & Footwear Association is seeking a Media Relations and Communications Coordinator who is skilled in writing/editing, media relations, social media, and translating complex information and data into succinct soundbites. The candidate will be a skilled writer who can translate messages to a variety of stakeholders and audiences in the areas of AAFA’s three key priorities: Brand Protection; Supply Chain & Sourcing; and Trade, Logistics, & Manufacturing.  The qualified candidate will have a keen attention to detail, ability to collaborate effectively and be patient in assessing diversity of input, and will be highly productive in a remote/hybrid office.

The position will report to the Senior Vice President, Communications but will lead projects in tandem with the Education and Programming department to fulfill marketing visions and outcomes for AAFA’s suite of virtual and in-person events, plus initiatives with the Policy and Membership departments. This position will also work to achieve integrated, cohesive storytelling across all channels and enforce the AAFA Brand Guidelines.

FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as a front-line writer and editor for op-eds, case studies, one-pagers, reports, and live remarks.
• Generate clips/recap AAFA’s earned media. Drive content for AAFA Weekly Brief
• Field media inquiries and proactively pitch stories to national and local media to generate interviews in support of AAFA's strategic priorities.
• Identify proof points, member testimonials, and case study opportunities.
• Organize and update talking points for media opportunities and policy presentations.
• Support and streamline internal communications initiatives, including SOPs.
• Collaborate across departments to develop marketing points to support Membership, Sponsorship, and Event/Educational programs.
• Ensure consistency and positive positioning of AAFA's brand in external communications.
• Leverage data and analytics to ensure campaigns meet goals and enhance AAFA's brand presence.
• Generate unique avenues for building awareness and driving attendance to AAFA’s meetings and events.
• Strategize, prioritize, and automate email marketing campaigns.
• Address back-end-entry of materials for the AAFA website, including the AAFA image library and library of publications/reports.
• Fiercely protect the AAFA Brand Guidelines.
• Develop and maintain social media calendars (e.g., Instagram, LinkedIn, X, Threads, Youtube).
• Regularly conduct website health/support web content audits and improve SEO results. Continuously evaluate AAFA collateral for accessibility.

BENEFITS:

• Virtual office/work from home flexibility
• Medical/Dental/Vision insurance
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• 401(K) Plan with profit sharing
• Generous PTO and holiday time

ABOUT:

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the national trade association representing apparel, footwear and other sewn products companies, and their suppliers, which compete in the global market. Representing more than 1,000 world famous name brands, AAFA is the trusted public policy and political voice of the apparel and footwear industry, its management and shareholders, its more than 3.2 million U.S. workers, and its contribution of more than $490 billion in annual U.S. retail sales. AAFA drives progress on three key priorities: Brand Protection; Supply Chain & Sourcing; and Trade, Logistics, & Manufacturing. AAFA approaches this work through the lens of purpose-driven leadership in a manner that supports each member’s ability to build and sustain inclusive and diverse cultures, meet and advance ESG goals, and draw upon the latest technology. www.aafaglobal.org

NOTE: Association staff members are primarily based in Washington, D.C.; however, significant telework options are available.

REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's Degree and at least 3 years of communications/writing/media relations experience (agency, advocacy organization, campaign).
• Capitol Hill experience a plus.
• Strong writer and editor with superior communications skills and keen attention to detail.
• Results oriented; self-sufficient; highly organized.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet critical competing deadlines.
• Forward-thinking; open to new ideas with a strong desire to continuously improve.
• Excellent collaborative skills working with a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with Google Analytics (GA4) and social media KPI reporting.
• Experience with digital advertising (e.g., mobile geofencing and retargeting).
• Proficient in Email marketing (e.g., MailChimp, Constant Contact, Critical Impact).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Sharepoint, Word, PowerPoint)
• Ability to manage year-round event marketing schedules and tactics, including methods to convert new audiences to registrants for AAFA events.

About AAFA

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the national trade association representing apparel, footwear and other sewn products companies, and their suppliers, which compete in the global market. Representing more than 1,000 world famous name brands, AAFA is the trusted public policy and political voice of the apparel and footwear industry, its management and shareholders, its 3.2 million U.S. workers, and its contribution of more than $490 billion in annual U.S. retail sales. AAFA drives progress on three key priorities: Brand Protection; Supply Chain & Sourcing; Trade, Logistics, & Manufacturing. AAFA approaches this work through the lens of purpose-driven leadership in a manner that supports each member’s ability to build and sustain inclusive and diverse cultures, meet and advance ESG goals, and draw upon the latest technology.

Connections working at AAFA