Communications Director & Executive Speechwriter
11 Days Old
Overview AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for health and financial security, and personal fulfillment for more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families. The organization also shares high-quality products and services under the AARP name and produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin.
AARP’s Office of Chief of Staff keeps the organization operating and informed on a day-to-day basis. The staff works closely with the CEO and other E-Team members to provide leadership and direction for strategic decisions.
Reporting to the Chief of Staff and working directly with the CEO, the Communications Director & Executive Speechwriter will shape, manage, and measure the effectiveness of a strategic thought leadership platform for the CEO. The Speechwriter & Communications Director will serve as the primary speechwriter for the CEO, crafting well-researched, persuasive, high-impact communications that convey the company’s vision, values, and strategic goals to diverse audiences. This role requires executive and corporate communications expertise, exceptional writing skills, and the ability to translate complex ideas into clear, engaging narratives.
Responsibilities Lead and collaboratively manage all CEO communication activities, including the development and implementation of a strategic CEO thought leadership platform.
Collaborate with the CEO and Chief of Staff to understand messaging needs and ensure alignment with the organization’s strategic objectives.
Serve as chief speechwriter for the CEO, including writing, production, and coordination of speeches and other communications (keynote addresses, talking points, opinion pieces, correspondence, journal articles, AARP Bulletin column, slide presentations, video scripts, books, and other publications). Prepare the CEO for internal and external speaking engagements.
Manage and edit the work of freelance writers and other communications professionals to ensure clarity, accuracy and impact across the CEO’s communications and key organization pieces.
Advise staff writers on message and content to ensure consistency and impact.
Identify opportunities for the CEO and other senior executives to deliver core messages and influence national and international conversations on aging. Build cross-functional relationships with subject matter experts to inform executive communications.
Conduct thorough research on topics relevant to speeches, including industry trends, company initiatives, and audience demographics.
Maintain a consistent tone and style reflecting the CEO’s voice and the company’s brand and values; incorporate audience insights into all communications.
Stay updated on executive communication and public speaking best practices and trends to continuously improve the CEO’s public presence.
Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or a related field, with more than 8 years of proven experience in executive communication and speechwriting, preferably within a government environment.
Exceptional writing and editing skills, with a strong portfolio of speeches and other written materials.
Excellent research skills and the ability to synthesize complex information.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work closely with senior executives.
Ability to travel, generally up to 25%, though actual travel requirements may vary.
Preferred Master’s degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or a related field, with experience in public relations or corporate communications and knowledge of nonprofit, government, or related industries.
Proficiency in presentation software (PowerPoint, Keynote).
Familiarity with speech delivery techniques, public speaking best practices, and emerging technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence).
AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.
Additional Requirements Regular and reliable job attendance
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Respect for others to maintain professional relationships
Independent judgment in evaluating options to make sound decisions
In-office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively in a setting with moderate noise
Hybrid Work Environment AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as remote workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work can be performed within the United States and its territories.
Compensation and Benefits AARP offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including a 401(k); 100% company-funded pension plan; health, dental, and vision plans; life insurance; paid time off including company and individual holidays, vacation, sick, caregiving, and parental leave; and performance-based and peer-based recognition and tuition reimbursement.
Equal Employment Opportunity AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
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- Location:
- Washington, DC, United States
- Job Type:
- FullTime
- Category:
- Marketing & Media