Associate

GBSM is a Denver-based communications and consulting firm working with a dynamic client base, including a variety of diverse public and private companies, national non-profit organizations, higher-education institutions and local government.

We have 40+ years of proven excellence in helping our clients navigate complex communications challenges, public affair campaigns, reputation management issues and management consulting needs.

We pride ourselves on quality over quantity, thoughtful strategy over impactless flash, teamwork over bravado and often helping our clients avoid or deflect unwanted attention, rather than clamoring for it. We are mightily invested in helping the communities in which we operate be vibrant, thriving and welcoming to all.

ABOUT THE POSITION

We are seeking an experienced Associate consultant with a strong background in public affairs, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and issues management.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working at the intersection of communications, public affairs, media relations and community engagement. You will help clients navigate complex public policy, regulatory environments, infrastructure projects, community issues, and organizational change through thoughtful communications strategies and trusted advice.

Successful candidates will bring outstanding writing skills, intellectual curiosity, project management ownership, a collaborative approach to problem solving, and the ability to develop communications strategies that build trust.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

Our Associates partner with our senior consultants to develop and execute integrated communications and public affairs strategies for clients. This work is rooted in thoughtful strategy, authentic relationships and measurable results.

These responsibilities may include

• Support public affairs and stakeholder engagement initiatives for clients navigating complex public issues, infrastructure projects, policy initiatives, and community concerns.
• Lead engagement initiatives involving community organizations, elected officials, regulators, business leaders, advocacy groups and other key stakeholders.
• Design and execute public involvement programs, including open houses, community meetings, advisory committees, workshops and coalition-building initiatives.
• Develop messaging, briefing materials, presentations, fact sheets, testimony, talking points, executive communications and more.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media, community partners, policymakers and other influential stakeholders.
• Conduct research and analyze political, regulatory and community landscapes to inform client strategy. Partner with our team of senior-level communications and public affairs experts to advise and implement strategies for our client’s success.
• Support integrated communications campaigns spanning earned media, digital communications, stakeholder engagement and community outreach.
• Manage multiple client projects while ensuring high-quality deliverables, budgets, and timelines. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver thoughtful, strategic solutions for clients facing complex communications challenges.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

Education and Experience

o An undergraduate degree, preferably in Communications, Journalism, Political Science, Public Policy, or a related business field.

o A minimum of six to eight years in public affairs, strategic communications, community engagement, government relations, corporate communications, or consulting.

o Consulting experience strongly preferred.

Project Management

o Outstanding critical thinking, problem solving, organization, writing and personal communication skills.

o Ability to stay on top of competing priorities in a fluid environment, manage client expectations, provide internal planning for upcoming milestones, and negotiate deadlines and workloads.

Writing and Communication Skills

o Outstanding writing and storytelling abilities with demonstrated experience producing executive communications, policy briefs, public facing materials, media content, community engagement materials and strategic messaging tailored to diverse audiences.

o Must be capable of maintaining clear, effective, timely communication with multiple team members, clients, stakeholders, sub-consultants and vendors.

Digital Literacy

o Strong fluency in digital technology, communication tools, networks and platforms.

o Skills in creating strategy and execution of media campaigns on a variety of platforms. Teamwork and Humanity:

o Collaborative approach and “we first” vs “me first” thinking. Able to put client and team success over personal interests or independent decision making.

o A natural ability to understand, empathize and forge authentic connections with a diverse mix of clients, audiences, teammates and partners.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Excellent starting salary of $80,000-$90,000 with annual bonus opportunity, 401(k) with company match, and comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Responsibly unlimited PTO after 6 months.
• Stipends for home office needs, professional development and learning opportunities, and technology and transportation expenses.
• Fixed hybrid work schedule at our office in LoDo.
• An amazing and supportive team culture that lacks ego, values intellectualism, supports community involvement, and understands the importance of a great soundtrack and amazing art to creating the ideal work environment.

WHY US?

At GBSM, you'll work alongside experienced consultants advising organizations on some of the region's most important business, infrastructure, policy and community issues. We believe great communications begin with thoughtful strategy, genuine relationships and a commitment to helping clients, and the communities they serve, succeed.

If you're excited to help organizations navigate complex challenges with creativity, integrity and strategic insight, we'd love to hear from you.