Company Description The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) is the national trade association representing leading producers and marketers of distilled spirits across the country. The organization focuses on protecting the sector from increased taxes, reducing global trade barriers, and supporting policies that expand responsible adult market access for spirits products. DISCUS works to enhance consumer convenience and choice while advancing responsible and moderate consumption. As a recognized resource, DISCUS provides data, insights on public policy developments, information on cultural acceptance programs, and guidance on U.S. spirits exports and alcohol-related science.
Job Title: Social Media Specialist
Reports to: Vice President, Brand Strategy, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
Location: Hybrid (Washington, D.C.)
Position Summary:
The Social Media Coordinator serves as the dedicated social media lead for the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), owning the day-to-day strategy, content and management of DISCUS social channels. Reporting to the Vice President, Brand Strategy and working closely with communications, policy, events, membership and government affairs colleagues, this role translates DISCUS priorities into timely, engaging and on-brand content. This is an ideal role for an early-career communicator ready to take real ownership of an organization's social presence at the intersection of advocacy, policy and storytelling.
Duties/Responsibilities:
• Channel Ownership & Strategy
Serve as the primary owner of DISCUS social media accounts, including content creation, account access, platform strategies, and tools. With guidance from the Vice President, Brand Strategy, develop and refine channel strategy to grow reach and advance DISCUS priorities and goals. Collaborate with internal teams and external digital agency partners to plan, execute, and evaluate the organization’s social media efforts.
• Content Creation & Publishing
Plan, create, and publish organic and paid content across DISCUS social channels. Create graphics, short-form video, and copy that align with brand standards and DISCUS priorities. Adapt content for each platform's format and audience.
• Content Calendar Management
Maintain the social media content calendar, track upcoming campaigns, policy developments, and events, and coordinate with internal teams to ensure content is approved and ready on schedule.
• Community Management & Monitoring
Monitor DISCUS channels and relevant industry, policy, and media conversations. Flag emerging issues, trends and opportunities to the team in real time. Manage engagement and responses according to established guidelines.
• Campaign Support
Lead the social components of DISCUS advocacy and brand campaigns, including content production, paid social coordination, and partner amplification.
• Analytics & Reporting
Track and report on channel performance, campaign results, and audience growth. Recommend adjustments based on what the data show.
• Compliance & Brand Standards
Ensure all content adheres to DISCUS brand guidelines, DISCUS age-gating requirements for beverage alcohol content, and the DISCUS Code of Responsible Practices for Beverage Alcohol Advertising and Marketing. Route content through the appropriate internal review process before publishing.
• Event & Live Coverage
Provide real-time social coverage of DISCUS events, Hill activities, press moments, and industry gatherings as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Desired Skills/Qualifications:
• Strong writer with a sharp eye for concise, engaging copy
• Working knowledge of major social platforms (LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube) and their best practices
• Experience with social scheduling and listening tools (e.g., Sprout Social or similar)
• Basic graphic design and video editing skills (Canva, CapCut, Opus Clip or similar)
• Familiar with social analytics and translating performance metrics into takeaways
• Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple projects at a fast pace
• Self-starter comfortable owning a channel end to end
• Collaborative, curious, and eager to learn
• Ability to work occasional evening events and extended hours as needed to support event coverage and respond to time-sensitive social media needs.
• Ability to move or lift up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Education and Experience:
• Bachelor's degree in Digital/Social Media, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing or a related field, or equivalent experience
• 1 to 3 years of experience managing social media for an organization, agency, campaign, or brand (internships count)
• Interest in the distilled spirits industry, public policy, advocacy or trade association work is a plus
• Must be 21 years of age or older
This position offers hands-on ownership of the digital presence of a leading national trade association, with direct exposure to high-profile advocacy campaigns and policy communications.