The Director, Speechwriting provides strategic communications support for the President & CEO of United Way Worldwide and select others as assigned (i.e., Board Chair). We are seeking a talented and experienced speech writer to join our team and support our CEO in delivering impactful and persuasive speeches. As a speech writer, you will work closely with the CEO to understand their vision, goals, and key messages, and translate them into compelling speeches that resonate with various audiences. Your exceptional writing skills, attention to detail, and ability to capture the CEO's voice and style will be crucial in this role. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in speechwriting, excellent research abilities, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.
This in-person position is based at United Way Worldwide’s headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL DUTIES OF POSITION
- Collaborate closely with the CEO to understand their objectives, key messages, and target audience for each speech.
- Craft speeches, talking points, presentations, and other communications, to specific audiences on specific topics, while taking into account the organization’s approved message platform and strategic direction.
- Work with meeting and event managers and content experts to gather specific information and details required to ensure the CEO is prepared to either present or participate in public and private conversations. Coordinate and collaborate with the Executive Office staff on all matters requiring CEO engagement.
- Provide original thinking on how United Way vision, mission, and goals are connected to external events and the ever-changing environment. Find opportunities to leverage such events to promote the messages of the CEO.
- Research and stay up-to-date on relevant and selected topics for use in preparing communications.
- Use research and writing assignments to keep strategic messages fresh and relevant, help shape thinking and inform ideas on critical issues and priorities.
- Travel with the CEO when requested to provide general support, including advance work, meeting preparation, logistics coordination, communication with constituents and staff, as well as follow up to specific requests.
- Archive all presentations, speeches, and talking points for easy accessibility and future use and reference.
- Serve as general communications liaison between Executive Office and Marketing & Communications.
- Other duties as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience.
- At least six years of progressive experience in a similar role.
- At least three years of owning and initiating the work rather than being assigned the work is desirable.
- At least one year of writing speeches for a CEO or Executive level leader.
- Authorship of original work.
- The ideal candidate will more likely subscribe to The Economist than they would Entertainment Weekly.
- This person will be able to keep up with and match the CEO’s extensive and flexible schedule knowing that the work occurs in all time zones across the globe.
- Passion for the mission and excitement for the delivery of the work must be palpable in the person who holds this position.
- In addition to being an experienced writer, the position requires strategic thinking, excellent oral communication skills, comprehensive proficient computer skills, as well as exceptional teamwork and interpersonal skills. Must be available for periodic domestic and international travel.
ABOUT UNITED WAY WORLDWIDE
United Way Worldwide seeks diverse, qualified professionals who want to make a difference in the world. If you are passionate about your work and desire to help others achieve enhanced education, income, and health, United Way Worldwide is the place for you.
