Director External Communications

New York, NY, United States

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive.

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values:

Continuously learn.

Act with intention.

Champion difference.

Inspire change.

Grow together.

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that's helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential.

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are

As the Director of External Communications , you will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies to enhance the organization's visibility, reputation, and impact.

Reporting directly to the Vice President of Integrated Marketing & Strategic Planning , you will lead efforts in media relations, message development, and stakeholder engagement. With a focus on strategic planning and innovative tactics, you will work to ensure consistent messaging and effective communication with diverse audiences. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving awareness, fostering relationships, and ultimately furthering the mission of the organization.

The ideal candidate for the Director of External Communications is a seasoned communications professional with a proven track record of crafting and executing strategic communications programs. They possess a deep understanding of media relations, reputation management, and thought leadership. They are adept at crafting compelling narratives and engaging diverse stakeholders. This candidate is a collaborative team player with a passion for social impact and a commitment to advancing the organization's mission. They thrive in a fast-paced environment, are results-oriented, and can easily flex across strategy and execution

This is a hybrid opportunity, which requires three (3) days per week in our NYC office.

What you'll do

Strategic Communication Planning: Develop and execute strategic communication plans aligned with the organization's goals and objectives integrated across paid, earned, shared, and owned channels.

Messaging Development: Craft and maintain powerful brand messaging that brings the organization's mission, values, and key initiatives to life across all communication channels. Ensure consistency and clarity in messaging to effectively engage diverse stakeholders and enhance the organization's brand reputation.

Media Relations: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with our top local, national, and international media. Drive thought leadership initiatives by identifying relevant trends, opportunities, and challenges. Develop and promote insightful content to position the organization as a leading voice in our focus areas.

Executive & Expert Visibility : Develop strategies to enhance the visibility and thought leadership of organizational executives and experts through targeted speaking engagements, media appearances, awards, and networking opportunities. Coordinate executive participation in relevant industry events and forums to amplify the organization's impact and influence.

Content Creation : Work in partnership with the Content Team and our outside agency to create compelling content, including op-eds, blog posts, videos, infographics, research, and social media posts, to amplify our work, engage stakeholders, and raise awareness about our mission and impact.

Reputation Management : Develop protocols and strategies for effectively managing and responding to crisis situations or negative publicity.

Agency Management: Oversee and collaborate with external communication agency to ensure alignment with organizational goals and messaging. Provide guidance, feedback, and direction to agency partners to maximize the impact of communication efforts and maintain consistency with the organization's brand and values.

Metrics and Evaluation : Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of communication efforts. Analyze data and feedback to continuously improve strategies and tactics.

Budget Management : Develop and manage the annual communication budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and maximizing ROI.

Team Leadership: Manage direct reports providing guidance, mentorship, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.

Must-haves

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling messages and narratives for diverse audiences.

8+ years of experience in communications, with a demonstrated track record of success in a leadership role.

Experience at an agency required.

Committed to embodying and being a steward of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Nice-to-haves

Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or related field.

Strong project management and creative problem-solving skills - you enjoy being the person to jump in and figure things out while influencing and aligning cross-functionally.

Ability to flex across multiple projects, navigate many levels of seniority and functions, and roll your sleeves up when you have to and get the job done.

A relationship builder who is high energy, proactive, collaborative, resourceful, and action-oriented.

Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms.

Experience managing budgets and allocating resources effectively.

Passion for the mission and values of Understood.

The base salary range for this role is minimum $175,000 - $200,000 maximum, depending on years of experience and qualifications. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports wellness for our team members and their families. You can learn more about our benefits and offerings.

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

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