Director of Communications and Media Relations

At the Ohio Farm Bureau, the role of the Director of Communications and Media Relations is not just about managing media—it’s about becoming the voice of agriculture in Ohio. This position is at the heart of our mission, where strategy meets creativity to connect members, policymakers, and the public. The director will serve as a key spokesperson, crafting impactful stories that highlight the triumphs and challenges within the agricultural community.

From producing engaging podcasts to collaborating with other State Farm Bureaus and the American Farm Bureau, this role demands a visionary leader who can navigate the evolving landscape of communication with precision and passion. With a pulse on emerging issues and the ability to design integrated communication plans, the director will ensure that Ohio’s farmers are represented with clarity and strength.

This position offers the chance to work in a dynamic environment, fostering relationships with media outlets, training member spokespersons, and contributing to a variety of media. It’s an opportunity to be the driving force behind shaping public perceptions of agriculture and empowering members to share their stories.

As the Director of Communications and Media Relations, you’ll champion the voice of Ohio agriculture, amplifying its message to influence positive change across the state and beyond.

Key Responsibilities:

Perform public spokesperson duties for the organization.

Strategize, develop, and direct effective media relations and social media programs.

Collaborate with public policy and other departments as needed to devise communications strategies and tactics for priority and emerging issues.

Produce and host podcast programs.

Contribute to publications and e-communications.

Maintain issue histories, research new/emerging issues.

Daily monitoring of news and sharing content with key staff and leaders.

Prepare coworkers and members for specific events/issues. Identify and prepare farmer spokespersons.

Plan/carryout media relations at special events (Ag Day at Capitol, annual meeting, Presidents’ trip to Washington D.C., etc.).

Collaborate with counterparts in other ag groups, state Farm Bureaus, and the American Farm Bureau

Manage crisis communications efforts, including creating and executing plans to address potential reputational risks.

Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including media outlets, industry partners, and policymakers.

Provide strategic advice to leadership on public messaging and positioning to align with the organization's goals and values.

Media relations training and assist members with issues response, including letters to editor, talking points and strategic advice.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in a communications-related field or significant professional experience.

Strong ability to verbally communicate and write about agricultural topics, including (but not limited to) agricultural production, policy, economics, social issues, and environmental issues.

Excellent project management skills, including the ability to handle multiple priorities and tight deadlines.

Strong knowledge of agricultural trends and issues at local, national, and global levels.

Experience with multimedia content creation, including video production and graphic design, is a plus.

Understanding of integrated communication models and techniques.

Understand journalistic techniques and be able to create motivating stories, articles, and editorials.

Be able to perform spokesperson duties with comfort and clarity to ensure quality representation.

Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a related position. preferably as a journalist

Ability to design, develop, and implement integrated communication plans.

Ability to manage a media relations network and delivery systems.