Director, External Communications

## Director, External Communications Apply:
US-REMOTE-DC:
USA-Remote (Any):
US-REMOTE-NC:
Full time:
Posted Today:
End Date:
October 14, 2026 (7 days left to apply):

Requisition
- ** Job Summary
** The Global Communications team is seeking a
** Director, External Communications,
** to lead FHI 360's external communications strategy to strengthen the organization's visibility, thought leadership, and influence across global health, economic opportunity, and international development sectors.
This role develops proactive media strategies, manages complex issues and reputational risks, and builds trusted relationships with journalists, industry organizations, and strategic partners. The Director also leads thought-leadership communications and executive speaking strategies that elevate FHI 360's expertise and amplify its impact with key global audiences.  Working across communications, global policy and advocacy, legal, program and country operations, business development, and executive leadership, the Director ensures consistent messaging, rapid response capabilities, and compelling storytelling that advances organizational priorities while protecting and strengthening FHI 360's reputation.

This role reports to the Senior Director, Global Communications, within the Chief Impact Office.  
** Responsibilities*
* ** Media Strategy & Relations*
* * Develop and execute integrated media and executive visibility strategies that elevate FHI 360 through earned media, executive thought leadership communications, strategic storytelling, and high-impact media opportunities that build an active, engaged audience for FHI 360's work.
* Build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with journalists, editors, influencers, industry associations, coalitions, and strategic partners, positioning FHI 360 as a trusted, go-to source for the news media, and serve as the organization's spokesperson when appropriate.
* Prepare executives and subject matter experts for media interviews and public appearances through media training, briefing materials, and message development.
* Develop and maintain a global media relations framework, including standards, toolkits, templates, and training that strengthen media engagement capabilities for program teams and country offices while ensuring consistent messaging and brand stewardship.
* Monitor global media coverage and trends to track emerging opportunities, risks, and provide strategic communications recommendations.
** Issues & Reputation Management*
* * Serve as a core member of FHI 360's global crisis response team, providing strategic communications counsel to ensure coordinated, timely, and effective responses to emerging issues.
* Develop proactive and reactive communications strategies, messaging, and stakeholder communications that protect and enhance the organization's reputation during periods of change, crisis, and heightened public interest.
* Build and maintain FHI 360's crisis communications infrastructure, including playbooks, escalation protocols, scenario plans, messaging frameworks, media training, and response tools to ensure organizational preparedness.
** External Engagement & Executive Communications*
* * Develop and lead FHI 360's strategy for thought leadership and executive communications opportunities that advance the organization's strategy.
* Coordinate executive participation in external engagements by aligning messaging, content, and follow-up to maximize visibility and strategic impact.
* Develop and cultivate strategic opportunities for FHI 360 leaders to engage with funders, policymakers, multilateral organizations, industry associations, partners, and other influential stakeholders, strengthening relationships and advancing organizational…