Director of External Affairs – Kent, WA

Summary

The Director of External Affairs will serve as a strategic partner to the Vice President of External Affairs & Communications, helping to shape and support Columbia Distributing’s engagement and communications strategy.

The role is primarily focused on leading strategic communications, digital and social media, and stakeholder engagement efforts that support the company’s business objectives and public affairs priorities.

The Director will serve as an important bridge between the company and key stakeholders, including teammates, media, community organizations, suppliers, retail partners, industry associations, and policymakers.

This position can be based out of Kent, WA or Wilsonville, OR.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of integrated communications strategies that support Columbia’s strategic priorities.
• Partner closely with the VP of External Affairs & Communications to align messaging with policy, corporate, and leadership priorities.
• Develop clear, compelling narratives that translate complex industry, policy, and business topics into accessible messaging.
• Oversee creation of executive communications, including talking points, presentations, and key messaging for internal and external use.
• Ensure consistency of voice and messaging across all communications channels.

• Coordinate Columbia’s digital and social media strategy, including content planning, platform management, and performance optimization.
• Develop and execute digital campaigns that support corporate storytelling, engagement, and public affairs priorities.
• Establish and maintain a consistent brand voice aligned with company values and priorities across digital platforms.
• Monitor digital performance and recommend data-driven improvements to increase reach and engagement.

• Develop and execute engagement strategies that strengthen and support relationships with teammates, suppliers, retail partners, industry associations, policymakers, and community leaders.
• Support internal communications initiatives that connect teammates to company strategy and priorities.
• Identify opportunities to elevate Columbia’s presence through events, partnerships, and advocacy.
• Represent the company in external engagements as appropriate.

• Support the VP of External Affairs & Communications in advancing government affairs and public policy priorities through strategic communications and engagement.
• Assist in analyzing and translating policy developments into clear communications for internal and external audiences.
• Help support and coordinate advocacy communications, issue management, and stakeholder engagement and outreach efforts.

• Support the development and communication of Columbia’s community impact and charitable initiatives.
• Partner with internal teams, suppliers, and nonprofit organizations to amplify impact and visibility.
• Assist in tracking, measuring, and communicating the impact of Columbia’s community partnerships and investments.

Key Competencies

• Strong writing, messaging, and strategic communications skills.
• experience developing and managing digital and social media strategies.
• Ability to translate complex issues into clear, engaging messaging.
• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work cross-functionally.
• Experience engaging with policymakers, industry partners, media, and community stakeholders; familiarity with public policy and regulatory environments is preferred.
• Strong judgement in handling sensitive communications, external positioning, and issue-related messaging.

People Management

This position does not directly oversee or manage other employees

Work Environment

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment.
Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Travel

Travel is primarily local during the business day, although some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected.

Required education and Experience

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree from an accredited institution.
• 6 – 8+ years of relevant experience in government affairs, public affairs, strategic communications, or public relations, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in political campaigns, legislative offices, public affairs firms, trade associations, or regulated industries is strongly preferred.

Columbia Distributing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Please contact the Human Resources Dept. at (425)251-9300 or email recruiting@coldist.com if you have questions regarding reasonable accommodations.