Director of Strategic Communications

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New York.

📋 Description

• Take charge of OpenMined’s narrative and external communication across media, policy, and the research community.

• Create technical content such as blog posts and explainers that highlight OpenMined’s products and initiatives, and develop a team of writers or an editorial team as necessary.

• Strategize and execute communications for significant announcements, including collaborative announcements with partner organizations.

• Establish a network of external experts who can validate and endorse OpenMined’s findings, and prepare them prior to releases.

• Cultivate relationships with technology, AI, and policy journalists to secure media coverage based on proven results.

• Assist the Executive Director in enhancing their public voice, positions, and speaking engagements.

• Prepare spokespersons for interviews, panels, and policy discussions.

• Manage swift and precise responses to inquiries and critiques on platforms such as X, Hacker News, Reddit, and GitHub, and oversee the process for addressing public claims.

• Ensure consistent messaging across OpenMined and its distinct branded products in collaboration with marketing.

• Report directly to Lacey Strahm, VP of Growth & Impact, and collaborate closely with Andrew Trask, as well as the research and policy teams and marketing.

⛳️ Requirements

• A minimum of 4 years of experience leading communications (press, narrative, announcements), preferably for a technical, AI-focused research and/or policy organization.

• Experience as a software engineer, or possess equivalent technical expertise: capable of utilizing our open-source software and producing content with a technical foundation independently.

• Managed public technical claims that have been critically assessed by experts, including prompt responses and corrections.

• Authored content for, or overseen communications for, a senior leader with a public presence.

• Demonstrates clear writing skills and the ability to articulate technical work without exaggeration.

• Successfully placed stories in technology, AI, science, or policy media outlets.

• Preferred (Nice-to-Haves): Established relationships with AI and technology journalists, as well as policy media.

• Coordinated collaborative announcements with major technology partners.

• Oversaw a PR firm, communications contractors, or a writer.

• Experience in rapid-response within technical online communities.

• Understanding of AI safety, AI governance, and privacy technology.

🏝️ Benefits

• Mission-Driven Work: Be part of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to social impact rather than profit, offering the opportunity to make a significant difference in the world.

• US employee benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance with company contributions; Retirement: 403(b) plan, the 401(k) equivalent for non-profits.

• Open Source Contribution: Make a tangible impact by contributing to an Open Source project that serves a wide community.

• Collaborative Global Team: Join a vibrant, international team that values collaboration and diversity.

• Flexible Work Hours: Enjoy the freedom to arrange your work hours in a way that best suits your life and productivity.

• Fully Remote Work: Work remotely within the specified location parameters for this role.

• Flexible Paid Time Off: Take the time you need with adaptable vacation days, alongside recognition of local national holidays.