VP, Public Affairs - Washington DC

Job Description:

Role Summary:
 

Synchrony is seeking a seasoned Public Affairs leader to expand our strategic communications efforts and enhance our presence with policymakers and policy influencers in DC and across select states. The individual will design and create communications and advocacy messaging, relationships across DC media, advocates, influencers and more to  build Synchrony’s reputation and identity with policymakers,  stakeholders, and associations.  This individual will be a member of the Corporate Affairs team and will partner closely with the Government Affairs team to advance Synchrony’s public identity in DC and nationally.

Synchrony is a Fortune 200 consumer financial services company helping to responsibly increase access to credit for Americans while helping businesses of all sizes thrive and grow. We hold a unique leadership role in the credit industry as a Top 5 Great Place to Work and the financing partner for leading brands and small businesses alike. We’ve worked to provide a wide variety of products and services behind our partner brands for nearly 100 years, and are now looking to build and grow our own brand to better support both our consumers and our partners.
 

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of relevant experience and success developing and driving comprehensive public affairs strategies, building and managing external relationships, crafting compelling narratives, advocacy, and navigating complex regulatory and political landscapes.  This role requires a strategic thinker who can effectively communicate, influence and partner across government entities, regulatory bodies, trade associations, media, and the general public. This newly created role will report to our Corporate Affairs function while partnering closely with our Government Affairs team.

** This position has flexibility to work from our Washington DC hub or work from home in the DC-area with the expectation of engaging in many in person events and connections in DC. **

Essential Responsibilities:
 

• Develop and implement strategic communications campaigns and plans to effectively convey the company's mission, values, and achievements among policy makers and influencers in DC and select states.

• Cultivate meaningful relationships with policy influencers, media, NGOs, think tanks, trade associations and other partners/collaborators.
• Strong understanding of the rapidly evolving media landscape and the opportunities to fully leverage both traditional and new channels to drive Synchrony’s messages
• In partnership with our content team, create and tailor public facing materials, including, op-eds, paid and owned content, and other collateral that resonate with diverse policymakers, ensuring consistency in messaging across various channels.

• Identify new partnerships that drive our public policy and corporate affairs objectives
• Collaborate with senior leadership to understand business objectives; contribute to the development of integrated campaigns that promote the company’s brand and capabilities; provide strategic counsel to senior executives.
• Manage and maximize agency relationships.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, Public Policy, Government, or a related field. In lieu of degree,12 years of public affairs experience.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in public affairs, communications, government relations, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of Public Policy influence experience either with a corporation, trade association, media or government agency
• Strong understanding of regulatory environments and legislative processes; banking, consumer financing or and/or healthcare financing experience is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex issues in a clear and concise manner.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with key partners, including government officials, media, and community leaders.
• Experience in crisis management and the ability to navigate high-pressure situations.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Reside in Washington DC area and available for in person activities including time in the office and events in and around Washington DC. Must be able to travel to Stamford, CT, headquarters as needed.

Desired Characteristics:

• Demonstrated success leading and developing policy communications in the government, private sector or academia leveraging traditional, digital and social media strategies.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, using sound judgment in making decisions, balance multiple priorities, and communicate proactively with stakeholders about project risks or uncertainties.
• Takes initiative, anticipates next steps and sets high standards; exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize and manage a high volume of detailed work with conflicting priorities, and deliver on a tight deadline.
• Trustworthy and able to keep highly sensitive information confidential.

Grade/Level: 14

The salary range for this position is 150,000.00 - 250,000.00 USD Annual and is eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.

Actual compensation offered within the posted salary range will be based upon work experience, skill level or knowledge.

Salaries are adjusted according to market in CA, NY Metro and Seattle.

Eligibility Requirements:

• You must be 18 years or older

• You must have a high school diploma or equivalent

• You must be willing to take a drug test, submit to a background investigation and submit fingerprints as part of the onboarding process

• You must be able to satisfy the requirements of Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act.

• New hires (Level 4-7) must have 9 months of continuous service with the company before they are eligible to post on other roles.  Once this new hire time in position requirement is met, the associate will have a minimum 6 months’ time in position before they can post for future non-exempt roles.  Employees, level 8 or greater, must have at least 18 months’ time in position before they can post.  All internal employees must consistently meet performance expectations and have approval from your manager to post (or the approval of your manager and HR if you don’t meet the time in position or performance expectations).

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.  We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. 

Our Commitment:

When you join us, you’ll be part of a diverse, inclusive culture where your skills, experience, and voice are not only heard—but valued. We celebrate the differences in all of us and believe that our individual, unique perspectives is what makes Synchrony truly a great place to work. Together, we’re building a future where we can all belong, connect and turn ideals into action. Through the power of our 8 Diversity Networks+, with more than 60% of our workforce engaged, you’ll find community to connect with an opportunity to go beyond your passions.

This starts when you choose to apply for a role at Synchrony. We ensure all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Reasonable Accommodation Notice:

• Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.

• If you need special accommodations, please call our Career Support Line so that we can discuss your specific situation. We can be reached at 1-866-301-5627.   Representatives are available from 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday, Central Standard Time

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