Account Director, Direct Impact (Public Relations & Public Affairs)

More about the role:

Direct Impact is the grassroots communications practice of Burson (a WPP agency), with a presence in every media market and political jurisdiction across the U.S. Our team of local experts helps clients localize and execute national campaigns, providing direct access to communities across the country.

We are seeking an Account Director to join our Washington, D.C. team. This role will lead strategic public affairs initiatives that shape policy conversations, engage key stakeholders, and advance advocacy objectives while integrating earned media and communications strategies. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in agency public affairs or strategic communications, with experience working on Capitol Hill or within government highly preferred.

What you'll do:

• Lead the development and execution of integrated public affairs campaigns that combine government relations, stakeholder engagement, grassroots advocacy, and strategic communications.
• Provide senior-level strategic counsel to clients navigating legislative, regulatory, and reputational issues at the federal, state, and local levels.
• Be aware of industry organizations, advocacy groups, community partners, media, and other key external stakeholders to support strategic communications and public affairs initiatives.
• Drive earned media strategies in support of public affairs objectives, including media outreach, messaging, thought leadership, and rapid response communications.
• Oversee coalition-building efforts, community engagement initiatives, and public-facing events that advance client priorities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across Burson to deliver integrated campaigns spanning public affairs, media relations, digital, and research.
• Identify opportunities to expand client relationships and contribute to business development efforts.
• Mentor junior team members while fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.

Experience that contributes to success:

• 6+ years of experience in public affairs, government relations, strategic communications, public relations, or political communications.
• Agency experience is strongly preferred, ideally supporting corporate, advocacy, or issue-based campaigns.
• Previous experience working on Capitol Hill, in a congressional office, or within a government or public policy environment is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing public affairs strategies that engage policymakers, stakeholders, media, and grassroots audiences.
• Strong understanding of the public affairs, policy, and communications landscape, with the ability to translate complex issues into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
• Experience supporting clients in technology, financial services, corporate affairs, or other highly regulated industries is preferred.
• Excellent writing, presentation, and client counseling skills with the ability to distill complex policy issues into compelling communications.
• Proven ability to manage multiple workstreams and thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• A collaborative mindset and passion for helping organizations influence policy, build trust, and drive meaningful impact.

#LI-FB1

Burson is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.