Communications Manager at Institute for Middle East Understanding – United States 436REMOTE POSSIBLEHYBRID
Recruiter: Institute for Middle East Understanding
About the Role:
The Communications Manager will support media relations that advance the conversation on Palestine in new media and digital spaces. The ideal candidate should be eager to engage with new and emerging media ecosystems including independent podcasts, streaming shows, Substack writers, YouTube, social-first political commentators, and other nontraditional platforms that are shaping public discourse. The communications manager will focus on expanding IMEU’s reach into new political spheres and culturally diverse audiences.
They will have meaningful experience in communications, public relations, chat podcasts, or journalism, and a strong understanding of how news is produced and consumed by young and politically diverse audiences. The Communications Manager will spend their time balancing short- and long-term media work, including pitching stories to new media voices and working on longer-term campaigns. This person should have strong familiarity with views across the political spectrum, strong writing and organizational skills, solid news judgment, and a passion for social justice and Palestinian rights.
Success in this role will be measured by the growth of IMEU’s presence in the emerging media ecosystem, strengthened relationships with new and emerging media voices, and contributions to longer-term narrative changes. This role offers an exciting opportunity for a mid-career professional eager to make a meaningful impact within a mission-driven organization.
Under the supervision of the Senior Communications Manager, the Communications Manager will be responsible for the following:
Media Campaigns
- Work with the senior communications manager to engage new media platforms and proactively pitch Palestine and Palestine-in-America stories that will resonate with politically diverse audiences.
- Leads, designs, and executes media campaigns focused on developments in Palestine, and on related developments in the U.S.
- Collaborate with partner organizations and grassroots campaigns to draw attention to larger, key issues.
- Represent IMEU in collaborations with partner organizations and work within coalitions to advance IMEUs strategic vision.
Media Relations and Pitching
- Proactively identify and pitch stories to emerging media that advance understanding of Palestinian realities and resonate with politically diverse audiences in the U.S.
- Cultivate new and maintain professional relationships with reporters, producers, hosts, and chat personalities, expanding IMEUs outreach and network.
- Create high-quality press materials, including pitches, media lists, press releases, messaging documents, and occasional op-eds.
- Collaborate across internal teams, including IMEUs media relations, digital, and policy teams.
Research and Analysis
- Research new media platforms, shows, voices, and influencers to pitch.
- Identify and cultivate Palestinian, Palestinian-American, and ally voices for new media engagement.
- Stay informed about emerging trends in media and public relations to ensure IMEUs strategies remain relevant, innovative, and impactful.
Qualifications:
- At least 5+ years of experience in communications, public relations, chat podcasts, journalism, or a related field, with priority given to those with demonstrated experience in communications or PR.
- Familiarity with the changing political landscape on Palestine.
- Proven ability to manage projects effectively, meet deadlines, and foster collaboration.
- Strong writing and storytelling skills, with a demonstrated track record of pitching stories to the media.
- Keen sense of news judgment and ability to quickly synthesize complex information to create concise, digestible press materials.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Demonstrated commitment and understanding of Palestinian history, culture, and politics.
Desired Attributes
- Commitment to IMEUs mission & passion for Palestinian rights.
- Kindness, professionalism, and a healthy approach to both collaborative and independent work.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work across ideological lines.
- Proactive and resourceful nature with excellent problem-solving skills, including an ability to anticipate problems and offer proactive solutions.
- Flexible and adaptive work style, thriving in a dynamic environment.
- Resilience and the ability to maintain momentum when exposed to difficult subject matters, including human rights issues.
- Willingness to travel within the U.S. as needed and work occasional evenings or weekends.
Applications must be submitted through the official careers portal. Female candidates and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.