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.

• Develop 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.
• Oversee 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. Provide technical assistance with editing, branding design, fact checking, and proofreading for a variety of content and communications as needed.
• Maintain and analyze digital metrics such as website traffic, email open rates and social media figures, and report performance to the leadership team in a timely manner. Collaborate with key leadership officials, experts, and staff to understand cross‑departmental quantitative and qualitative goals, and underscore the merits of EWC programs to expand their audiences and improve performance.
• Develop and maintain 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. Serve as the media contact with local press, media, and agency outlets as necessary to expand coverage and disseminate appropriate information.
• Serve as advisor to leadership and senior management on crisis communication strategy and messaging during urgent matters as required.
• Develop and maintain a cross‑departmental communications calendar and coordinate with other programs to develop story coverage plans, including supporting visuals, interviews, and unique story angles. Coordinate interviews with students, alumni, staff, donors, and friends of the East‑West Center in support of print and online content.
• Uphold best practices and ensure branding consistency across all departments and platforms.

• Complete 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. Investigate variances, identify budget issues, and provide alternative solutions.
• Ensure fiscal compliance and Center policies and regulations.

• Provide day‑to‑day leadership to ensure a high‑performance, customer service‑oriented work environment that supports achieving the Center’s mission, objectives, and values.
• Organize and oversee work schedules of…