Public Relations Associate

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions. That’s why we always look to the future and embrace change with an unmovable spirit and the courage to build for what comes next. Our vision is to bring adaptive innovation to support our nation's most important missions through the seamless integration of advanced technologies, elite minds, and unparalleled agility—leveraging a foundation of speed, flexibility, and ingenuity to strengthen and protect our nation’s vital interests. Requisition #: 1626 Job Title: Public Relations Associate Location: Hybrid, McLean, VA Job Description Agile Defense is seeking a Public Relations Associate with experience in the national security and defense industry. This role is responsible for planning and executing communications strategies that strengthen the organization’s visibility and reputation, support business development efforts, and develop differentiated executive thought leadership. The ideal candidate combines strategic thinking with hands-on execution. This is a strategic role designed to foster engagement and clarity across internal and external audiences throughout a globally distributed workforce and customer base. This position requires the ability to visualize and execute across a communications ecosystem to enhance the organization's visibility and reputation: managing media relations and developing strong relationships with key journalists, developing content and cultivating audience engagement social media, translating and ensuring consistency of messaging while building thought leadership platforms, and planning and executing key events that support business objectives. JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Develop and execute comprehensive public relations strategies aligned to business priorities and stakeholder objectives. Write and distribute press releases, speeches, and other communication materials. Create messaging that translates complex technologies and mission capabilities into clear value propositions. Monitor public opinion and media coverage to assess the effectiveness of PR strategies. Own and manage social media content strategies that combine traditional and AI-powered approaches, including ideation, content development, and execution. Analyze engagement data and optimize content strategy based on performance. Ensure consistency of messaging across all communication channels and stakeholders. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including journalists, influencers, and community leaders. Support event planning, conferences, and industry engagement. Experiment with new media and communication methods, tracking engagement metrics to continuously refine how messaging is resonating with key audiences. Education and Background A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field. Previous experience in public relations or communications, preferably in national security, defense, government contracting, or related sectors. Experience developing executive-level communication materials and messaging strategies, including briefings and positioning statements. Ability to exercise independent judgment in adjusting campaign strategy, content direction, and channel prioritization based on performance data. Experience developing and executing strategies for digital and social media platforms. Demonstrated success developing and executing proactive communications strategies in large, complex organizations or government environments. Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships. Proficiency in media relations and understanding of the media landscape. Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. Proven ability to turn complex business goals into relatable, effective communication strategies that resonate with people and culture. Experience developing digital media content (e.g., videos, interactive content). Years of Experience 3-5 years of experience Preferred Skills Strong preference for experience working on the Hill and/or in federal government agencies. Existing relationships with relevant journalists. Experience in crisis communications management. Knowledge of federal contracting, IT services, digital modernization, and government affairs. Working Conditions Typical Office Environment Our Core Values Employees of Agile Defense are our number one priority, and the importance we place on our culture here is fundamental. Our culture is alive and evolving, but it always stays true to its roots. Here, you are valued as a family member, and we believe that we can accomplish great things together. Agile Defense has been highly successful in the past few years due to our employees and the culture we create together. What makes us Agile? We call it the 6Hs, the values that define our culture and guide everything we do. Together, these values infuse vibrancy, integrity, and a tireless work ethic into advancing the most important national security and critical civilian missions. It's how we show up every day. It's who we are. Happy - Be Infectious. Happiness multiplies and creates a positive and connected environment where motivation and satisfaction have an outsized effect on everything we do. Helpful - Be Supportive. Being helpful is the foundation of teamwork, resulting in a supportive atmosphere where collaboration flourishes, and collective success is celebrated. Honest - Be Trustworthy. Honesty serves as our compass, ensuring transparent communication and ethical conduct, essential to who we are and the complex domains we support. Humble - Be Grounded. Success is not achieved alone, humility ensures a culture of mutual respect, encouraging open communication, and a willingness to learn from one another and take on any task. Hungry - Be Eager. Our hunger for excellence drives an insatiable appetite for innovation and continuous improvement, propelling us forward in the face of new and unprecedented challenges. Hustle - Be Driven. Hustle is reflected in our relentless work ethic, where we are each committed to going above and beyond to advance the mission and achieve success. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities