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Vistra · 3 hours ago

Alternate Program Manager/Lead Senior Strategic Communication Strategist

Arlington,VA,US

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

15+ years exp

Vistra Communications is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business providing professional support services to Defense, Federal, and Civilian Agencies. The Alternate Program Manager / Lead Senior Strategic Communication Strategist will guide Public Affairs and Strategic Communications for the Department of the Army’s Communication and Outreach Office, overseeing deliverables and ensuring quality strategic communication and outreach.

Public Relations

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Support the contractor lead for ACOO’s mission to support the Secretary of the Army’s communications across diverse activities

Cultivate and maintain professional relationships to foster a two-way dialogue that promotes understanding of the Army's mission and objectives, as well as the Vistra team

Participate in coordination with PM, directing staff and occasionally implementing program elements directly

Serve as a lead advisor to the ACOO Senior Leadership on planning, crisis communication, and outreach initiatives

Plan and Coordinate engagements for ACOO with media, and other stakeholders in sensitive contexts

Advise on monitoring the information environment for public and media opinion trends to recommend responses and proactive engagement strategies

Represent ACOO at planning and operations meetings at various levels

Develop long-range public affairs policies and programs to strengthen public understanding and participation in Army initiatives

Identify communication opportunities, ensure alignment with the Army's vision, and manage outreach through various media, including news releases, websites, video content, and public appearances

Evaluate ACOO’s plans for effective communication of sensitive and complex information, especially in high-stakes or controversial situations

Assist the PM in managing a team of senior Vistra personnel and subcontractors to support ACOO’s mission, including setting priorities, establishing timelines, and overseeing project execution

Assist the PM in assessing and addressing training needs, providing performance feedback, and conducting employee evaluations

Assist in administrative matters such as scheduling, time and attendance, leave, and alternate work arrangements

Collaborate with ACOO teams to guide content for Army publications, websites, and speeches

Meticulously review and approve speeches, articles, and other public presentations to ensure compliance with Army messaging and policies

Remain updated on media and public relations trends, including digital developments, to optimize communication strategies

Provide round-the-clock counsel on public affairs and crisis communications, as needed

Qualification

Strategic communicationMedia relationsCrisis communicationPublic affairsPublic opinion analysisTeam leadershipCommunication strategyContent reviewProfessional developmentActive security clearanceBachelor's degreeMaster's degreeAPRAPR+MInterpersonal skills