Vice President, Earned Media - Conservative Media Relations

ROLE OVERVIEW

Rational 360 is seeking a Vice President of Earned Media with a strong understanding of and deep relationships within the conservative media ecosystem. This role is ideal for a strategic communicator and media relations expert who has successfully placed high-impact stories, shaped narratives, and managed media relations for complex or politically charged campaigns.

This position will lead earned media strategy and execution across a range of client accounts—particularly those operating at the intersection of policy, business, and public opinion. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in public affairs or political communications, a track record of working with right-of-center outlets and influencers, and a sharp understanding of today’s media and political landscape.

ABOUT RATIONAL 360

Rational 360 is a full-service strategic communications and digital company that helps organizations win in high-stakes public affairs, corporate communications, and reputation management. We combine data-driven insights, creative storytelling, and cutting-edge technology to deliver results for clients across industries. Our team is collaborative, entrepreneurial, and driven by impact.

With a staff of approximately 120 and growing, Rational 360 is partially employee-owned and deeply invested in professional development, mentorship, and career advancement. Our teams work at the forefront of strategic communications, public policy, and media engagement across a wide variety of sectors.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the strategic lead for earned media strategy and execution across multiple client accounts.
• Cultivate and leverage deep relationships with conservative and center-right media outlets, editors, producers, journalists, and influencers.
• Develop and execute proactive media outreach strategies aligned with client goals, targeting relevant publications and platforms.
• Shape and pitch compelling stories, op-eds, and interview opportunities that resonate within conservative and broader national media narratives.
• Provide rapid response and crisis communications support, helping clients navigate politically sensitive or high-profile media situations.
• Partner with internal teams on integrated communications campaigns that include digital, grassroots, and policy components.
• Mentor and manage junior staff, ensuring strong execution and professional growth.
• Support new business development and growth of media service offerings.

Requirements

• 10–13 years of relevant experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or political strategy.

• Demonstrated expertise in placing earned media with conservative outlets (e.g., Fox News, Daily Caller, Washington Examiner, National Review, etc.) and center-right influencers.
• Deep understanding of the conservative political landscape, including key issues, platforms, and audiences.
• Excellent strategic judgment and experience managing high-profile media campaigns and complex messaging environments.
• Impeccable writing and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft sharp messaging that resonates with target audiences.
• Experience working in fast-paced, high-stakes environments—ideally within a PR agency, campaign, media outlet, or government office.
• Proven ability to manage teams, lead clients, and execute projects from concept through completion.
• Familiarity with political, policy, or advocacy work is strongly preferred.

Benefits

Why Join Rational 360? 

• Collaborative, mission-driven team environment 
• Exposure to high-impact work across public affairs, communications, and digital 
• Competitive compensation and benefits 
• Hybrid work model with flexibility- this role will be required to adhere to our hybrid work policy which requires employees to work in-person from our HQ located in downtown DC on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. 

Salary range for this role is 150,000 to 190,000 USD annually.

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship now or in the future.

Rational 360 is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to building an inclusive workplace.