Senior Director, Strategic Communications – External Relations

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in District of Columbia, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Directs initiatives aimed at enhancing the NAIS brand and establishing thought leadership within the independent school sector as well as the wider P-20 education ecosystem.

• Formulates a unified communications strategy that aligns executive messaging with the NAIS brand identity.

• Facilitates member and public outreach, improves internal information distribution, and advances advocacy narratives to highlight the importance of independent schools and NAIS’ expertise.

• Oversees external PR/media agencies or consultants in creating PR/media plans that correspond with the NAIS brand strategy.

• Acts as the point of contact for external PR/media agencies in implementing media strategies and managing incoming media inquiries by collaborating with NAIS subject matter experts.

• Works in partnership to develop and execute the president’s communications strategy.

• Creates communications and content for the president, including regular updates for the membership.

• Aids in board communications by assisting with the preparation of remarks for the board chair and senior leaders.

⛳️ Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field.

• Over 10 years of experience in a comparable media and public relations position, preferably within an association or non-profit environment.

• Experience in K-12 education and/or within Independent Schools is highly preferred.

• Exceptional writing and storytelling capabilities, with proven experience in strategic and executive communications.

• Proven track record of managing and coordinating external partners or agencies to achieve strategic communications objectives; experience in supervising or developing staff is a plus.

• Highly observant and analytical.

• Strong leadership qualities with the capacity to make challenging decisions.

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.

• Capable of working efficiently, both independently and as part of a team; able to communicate regularly and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Willingness to travel occasionally throughout the year.

• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; capable of adapting and learning new software and web-based systems.

🏝️ Benefits

• Comprehensive health and wellness programs.

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.

• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.

• A collaborative and supportive work environment.