press secretary

Press Secretary

The Organization

The Commonwealth Foundation (CF) is among the most effective and influential state-based think tanks in the country. With a top-notch team of policy analysts and communication experts, CF transforms free-market ideas into public policies so all Pennsylvanians can flourish.

Our research and advocacy have led to lower taxes on working Pennsylvanians, greater transparency in state government spending and contracts, criminal justice reform that reduced both prison population and crime and increased educational options for thousands of students.

Our work is driven by our core values of:

  • Integrity
  • Treating everyone with dignity
  • Stewardship of our investors’ time and treasure
  • Pursuing productive solutions to problems

Position

Are you skilled at engaging the media to drive positive change? Do you excel in creating and implementing media strategies that elevate a brand and its mission? The Commonwealth Foundation is looking for a dynamic Press Secretary to manage media outreach, develop impactful communications, and enhance our media presence across earned and owned channels. If you’re ready to apply your expertise to make a meaningful contribution, we’d love to hear from you.

Responsibilities Include:

  • Drive media outreach, including identifying target media, building press lists, and developing strong relationships with journalists.
  • Develop a range of media products including press releases, advisories, talking points, and background documents, meeting deadlines for distribution in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proactively pitch stories to targeted media outlets, support the release of policy reports and other public facing products, and manage responses to media inquiries.
  • Create engaging content for digital and social channels, including serving as an on-camera representative for interviews with experts and allies.
  • Organize press events and briefings, with travel as needed to support media opportunities.
  • Identify and leverage media opportunities to elevate the organization’s media presence and strengthen the thought leadership profiles of our experts/executives, including earned and placed media and public engagements.
  • Track and analyze media coverage, providing timely updates to staff and leadership.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

This hybrid role is based in or near Harrisburg, PA, with an in-office presence required several days per week and occasional travel.

Qualifications Include:

  • 2-3 years’ experience in media relations or communications, ideally within a policy organization, government, political campaign, or similar setting.
  • In-depth knowledge of Pennsylvania’s media, policy, and legislative landscape, with an ability to recognize and act on timely opportunities.
  • Proven track record of securing positive media coverage and managing media opportunities creatively and effectively.
  • Established media contacts and experience building productive relationships with journalists.
  • Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to serve as a spokesperson and appear in multimedia content.
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects to meet tight deadlines with keen attention to detail.
  • Ability to translate complex policy issues into clear, public-friendly messaging.
  • Comfort in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment; proactive, flexible, and adaptable to changing needs.
  • Ability to forge strong, collaborative, and effective relationships with internal partners and external stakeholders.
  • Willingness to work non-traditional hours when needed, primarily around legislative session and key events.
  • Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
  • Experience using Cision, Muck Rack, or similar public relations tools.

Commonwealth Foundation Benefits include:

  • Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance with up to 80 percent employer contribution.
  • 4% company contributions towards a retirement plan.
  • Monthly stipend for needed mobile technology and home office internet.
  • Unlimited paid time off and flexible work schedules.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit the following application materials in one PDF document:

  • Cover letter detailing your interest in the position, the mission of the Commonwealth Foundation and your salary requirements
  • Resume

Applications should be submitted through our online portal.  Click here to reach the portal Recruitment Portal