Communications Director

POSITION SUMMARY

The Communications Director is responsible for the strategic development and execution of all internal and external communication initiatives. Reporting to the COO, this role serves as the primary architect of the organization’s brand voice, communicating member value propositions, and overseeing the production of high-impact content across all digital and traditional platforms. The Communications Director manages media relations, public statements, and board communications while providing strategic oversight of digital media operations.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy and plan that aligns with the organization’s mission, MDC 2035 plan, and organizational goals.
• Continuously communicate the member value proposition to enhance recruitment, engagement and retention.
• Act as the primary content driver for the organization, ensuring consistent messaging across newsletters, website updates, and marketing materials.
• Manage all media relations, serving as a point of contact for the press and drafting high-level public statements on behalf of the CEO and the organization.
• Facilitate clear and professional communication with the Board of Directors and manage internal messaging to ensure staff alignment.
• Supervise the staff dedicated to the organization’s digital presence, including social media channels and multimedia projects.
• Conduct a thorough assessment of current digital media capabilities and gaps; manage contracted digital media services and assist in the recruitment of future in-house digital staff.
• Partner with internal departments and external stakeholders to amplify the impact of foundational safety and hospitality initiatives.
• Establish, monitor, and report on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Identify potential reputational risks and develop mitigation strategies to protect the organization’s brand.
• Oversee external vendors and manage contracts related to communications, marketing, paid advertising, websites, or other related areas of work.
• Other related duties as needed.

• At least five (5) years of experience in strategic communications, public relations, or a similar role.
• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field preferred.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful communication strategies for membership-based, nonprofit, or similar organizations.
• Advanced expertise in interacting inclusively with diverse populations, media outlets, and high-level stakeholders.
• Experience supervising and leading a small team of individual contributors and vendors.

• Ability to translate complex organizational goals into actionable communication plans.
• Mastery of tone and style for a variety of formats, from formal board reports to engaging social content.
• Ability to maintain strong relationships with local and regional media, and a deep understanding of the current news cycle.
• High level of technical proficiency across website CMS, email marketing platforms, and social media analytics.
• Demonstrated experience directing vendors, managing contracts, and leading teams through strategic initiatives.
• Exceptional analytical, critical-thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Strong organization skills and ability to manage multiple priorities by deadlines.
• Proven ability to remain calm and exercise sound judgement when handling sensitive information or crisis communications.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion, compliance, and professionalism.

This job operates in a clerical office setting. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, etc. This is a largely sedentary role; however, there are some physical requirements common in an office environment. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand as necessary.

This is a full-time exempt, exempt (salaried) position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with…