Director, Public Affairs & Strategic Communications

Description

The Director of Public Affairs & Strategic Communications shapes how The Commit Partnership shows up publicly on the issues that matter most to students and families. Working at the intersection of communications, public policy, education, economic mobility, advocacy, and civic engagement, the Director translates complex policy, research, data, and systems-change strategies into compelling public narratives that build understanding, strengthen partnerships, and inspire action.

Reporting to the Managing Director of Communications & Engagement, the Director serves as a senior public affairs strategist and trusted advisor on messaging, policy communications, stakeholder engagement, reputation, and external positioning. The Director works closely with Commit’s Policy & Advocacy, Early Childhood–12th Grade (EC–12), Postsecondary, Workforce, and other impact teams to ensure the organization’s communications are credible, evidence-based, student-centered, and aligned with organizational priorities.

More than a traditional communications role, this position requires someone who understands education and economic mobility deeply enough to help determine not only how Commit communicates, but when, where, why, and to whom the organization should use its voice. The Director will strengthen the connection between Commit’s research, policy priorities, advocacy, partnerships, and communications while helping establish a clear public narrative connecting student outcomes, education, workforce, and economic mobility.

The role moves fluidly between public affairs strategy, policy and advocacy communications, stakeholder engagement, media relations, thought leadership, executive communications, and community engagement. The Director represents Commit externally across Dallas County and Texas, including periodic travel to Austin during legislative sessions and other critical policy moments.

This role is well suited for a strategic, politically sophisticated communications leader who can navigate complex public environments, build trusted cross-sector relationships, translate evidence into accessible narratives, and use communications and public affairs to advance better outcomes and economic mobility for Texas students.

This job description is a summary and is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee.

Please note that for external candidates, the expected salary range is approximately $110,500–$124,750 depending on experience, qualifications, and internal equity.