2026- 27: Director of External Affairs

Introduction

At RePublic Schools, your work advances academic excellence and expands opportunity for every scholar. Every day, you partner with scholars and families to unlock opportunity through rigorous, joyful instruction and a deep commitment to academic excellence.

RePublic Schools is seeking a strategic and relationship‑driven Director of External Affairs to lead the organization’s external engagement strategy across communications, public awareness, philanthropy and community partnerships. The role reports to the Chief Executive Officer, is based out of Jackson, Mississippi, and supports schools in both Jackson and Nashville regions with occasional travel to Nashville, TN required.

• Lead the strategy and execution for how RePublic communicates its mission, values, and impact.
• Develop and oversee a comprehensive communications and storytelling strategy across digital, print, and media channels.
• Create compelling narratives that highlight the experiences of scholars, families, and educators across the network.
• Manage the organization’s website, social media platforms, newsletters, and major communications campaigns in partnership with communications and marketing vendors.
• Analyze communications data and performance metrics to refine strategy, optimize campaigns, and clearly report on impact.
• Create high‑quality messaging and materials that clearly communicate RePublic’s impact and priorities.
• Monitor press and social media coverage and develop thoughtful response strategies when needed.
• Build relationships with local media to generate positive coverage and elevate stories from RePublic schools.
• Strengthen RePublic’s presence and reputation across local communities.
• Develop and execute strategies that increase awareness and understanding of RePublic’s work across Jackson, MS and Nashville, TN.
• Identify opportunities for RePublic leaders, scholars, and educators to share their work through community events, media, and public forums.
• Cultivate relationships with civic leaders, community organizations, and local partners who influence public perception.
• Support external messaging during moments of heightened public attention or organizational change.
• Ensure RePublic’s brand is consistently represented across all public‑facing materials and engagements.
• Strengthen RePublic’s long‑term sustainability through strategic partnerships and collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Support the development and stewardship of philanthropic relationships that advance RePublic’s mission and strategic priorities.
• Partner with the chief team and the Board of Directors to cultivate and steward donors and community supporters.
• Develop compelling materials and messaging to support fundraising efforts and philanthropic engagement.
• Coordinate external events, communications, and opportunities that deepen relationships with supporters.
• Help ensure board members are equipped with the tools and messaging they need to effectively advocate for RePublic in the community.
• Build meaningful relationships with families, partners, and community organizations across RePublic’s regions.
• Develop and lead strategies that deepen engagement with families and community stakeholders.
• Represent RePublic at community meetings, events, and partnership opportunities.
• Identify opportunities to partner with local organizations that align with RePublic’s mission and support scholars and families.
• Create avenues for families, alumni, and community members to become ambassadors for RePublic schools.
• Ensure community voices inform how RePublic engages and communicates externally.

• Exceptional storytelling and communication skills; ability to translate complex work into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Relationship building; emotionally intelligent, self aware, and comfortable building authentic relationships with families, community leaders, donors, and partners.
• Strategic thinking and execution; ability to set priorities, manage multiple initiatives, and deliver high‑quality results.
• Entrepreneurial mindset; comfort working in dynamic environments where systems and strategies…