Director of Communications

The East-West Center (EWC) promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1960, the Center serves as a resource for information and analysis on critical issues of common concern, bringing people together to exchange views, build expertise, and develop policy options.

The Center’s 21-acre Honolulu campus, adjacent to the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, includes conference facilities, three residence halls, and an office building that houses research, program, and administrative activities. The Center also has an office in Washington, D.C., that provides accessibility to US, regional government stakeholders, and program partners with innovative training, analytical and dialogue exchange, and public diplomacy products to meet US policy priorities and expressed needs in the Indo-Pacific region.

Our Communications and External Relations (CER) team is seeking an on-site Director of Communications for a limited, one-year appointment (with possibility of extension). This position oversees media relations, crisis management, publications and events, and brand campaigns that target a variety of audiences across multiple channels. The incumbent will manage a team and work collaboratively with EWC leadership and program staff to successfully execute and deliver outcomes that support the Center’s mission and sustainability.

• Develops Center-wide communications plan that includes strategies to advance the Center’s institutional priorities and serves as an editorial and strategic advisor to the executive leadership team. Ensures all communications output remain non-partisan, reflect independent and innovative thinking, and embrace cross-disciplinary approaches and high standards of professionalism.
• Oversees the development and production of printed and online publications including its monthly newsletter, annual report, special events collateral, internal and external electronic newsletters, print and online ads. Provides technical assistance with editing, branding design, fact checking, and proofreading for a variety of content and communications as needed.
• Maintains and analyzes digital metrics such as website traffic, email open rates and social media figures, and reports performance to the leadership team in a timely manner. Collaborates with key leadership officials, experts, and staff to understand cross-departmental quantitative and qualitative goals, as well as underscore the merits of EWC programs to expand their audiences and improve performance.
• Develops and maintains a network of organizations and individuals in media and public relations who can strengthen the Center’s communication efforts and enhance both stakeholder and community engagement. Serves as the media contact with local press, media, and agency outlets as necessary to expand coverage and disseminate appropriate information.
• Serves as advisor to leadership and senior management on crisis communication strategy and messaging during urgent matters as required.
• Develops and maintains a cross-departmental communications calendar and coordinates with other programs to develop story coverage plans, including supporting visuals, interviews, and unique story angles. Coordinates interviews with students, alumni, staff, donors, and friends of the East-West Center in support of print and online content.
• Upholds best practices and ensures branding consistency across all departments and platforms.

• Completes assigned activities specific to finance and accounting, budgeting, procurement, and reporting to produce accurate and dependable information regarding operational expenses and identify/resolve any financial discrepancies. Investigates variances, identifies budget issues, and provides alternative solutions.
• Ensures fiscal compliance and Center policies and regulations.

• Provides day-to-day leadership to ensure a high-performance, customer service-oriented work environment that supports achieving the…