Director of Communications

Job Description

Job Description

Follow your passion

Are you looking to make a BIG impact? At Zeta, we pursue an unprecedented combination of high academic achievement and social-emotional development for our students. We insist that every student receives a world-class education while fostering a love for learning. We are passionate about changing the landscape of public education in New York City and beyond, and we are uncompromising in our mission.

Currently, we operate multiple elementary and middle schools in the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens. We plan to grow and open 1-2 schools each year because children in every community deserve excellent, equitable education. Join our growing team today, and be a change agent for children.

Our Network office is located at 401 W. 218th St., New York, NY 10034. Our Network team follows a hybrid work schedule: we work in-person from our office on Tuesdays and Thursdays with optional remote days on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, if your team's scope of work permits.

To achieve our vision, we are searching for a Director of Communications with a Bachelor's degree (preferably in Journalism, Communications, English, or a related field), and at least 7-10 years of experience with a proven record of leading high-stakes communications strategy, managing staff, and developing compelling content across stakeholder audiences.

In this role, the Director will serve as Zeta's organizational editor-in-chief--shaping and elevating Zeta's public identity through consistent messaging, strategic storytelling, and strong internal communications systems. The Director will lead all communications strategy and execution across media, PR, executive communications, and family-facing messaging. A strong candidate will bring outstanding writing skills, editorial rigor, project management expertise, and an ability to align messaging across audiences--from families and funders to media and policymakers.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement an integrated communications strategy that aligns Zeta's public voice with its mission, vision, and values
• Lead messaging across internal and external channels, supporting consistent and coherent storytelling that builds stakeholder trust
• Author and refine high-impact communications including press releases, executive communications (including op-eds), board updates, internal staff messaging, and family-facing materials
• Manage media relationships, proactively pitch stories, and coordinate earned media coverage to expand visibility for Zeta and its CEO
• Serve as thought partner to senior leadership on executive communications and key change initiatives
• Maintain editorial standards and quality control across all messaging, ensuring excellence in voice, tone, accuracy, and brand alignment
• Oversee vendor partnerships (e.g., PR firms, writers, consultants), ensuring deadlines, quality, and budget are met
• Collaborate cross-functionally with the Marketing, Outreach, Schooling, and Executive teams to unify messaging efforts
• Support the implementation of Zeta's communications protocols, timelines, and stakeholder sequences in line with our policies and procedures (P2) standards
• Wear multiple hats as a part of a lean scale-up team, supporting the work of others on the team and taking on new projects and tasks as needed

Zeta teammates are lifelong learners who live with child-like joy and a deep sense of purpose. We disrupt the status quo and tackle problems together. Our team stands united by our commitment to a limitless future for every child. Our Zeta team is comprised of top talent with incredible schooling and private sector experience. At Zeta:

• We are passionate about our mission of providing world-class education to all students
• We bring a mindset of growth, flexibility, and openness to feedback
• We are hungry and determined to not only meet our goals, but surpass them
• We are humble, willing to put the team's needs ahead of our own, and committed to contributing to a collaborative work environment
• We have a high bar for excellence and sweat over the details
• We are caring and put team over individual at all times

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. The salary range for this position is between $110,000 and $130,000. New hires can expect to be brought into the organization at a salary at or near the start of the range, depending on relevant experience and internal equity. Compensation is based on our salary scales.

We offer great benefits:

• Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses
• 403(b) retirement plan; Zeta offers matching contributions toward your savings
• Competitive compensation

We provide awesome perks:

• Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses (Gym memberships, salon appointments, concerts – it's up to you!)
• 4 live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace, and a free Headspace subscription
• MacBook Air, and specified monthly reimbursement for use of mobile phone
• Fully stocked teacher workrooms with favorite snacks and Nespresso machine
• Zeta swag, team outings, and NYC's finest sweet treats
• Books for professional development

We care deeply about your personal and professional growth:

• Clear pathway to professional growth
• Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates
• Community Circle practice to build and strengthen our sense of team
• Interactive Mindfulness and DEIJ programming

Equity is at the heart of our mission. We have a deep commitment to pursuing diversity and striving for equity. Zeta is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Work authorization is required (candidate must have permanent authorization to work in the U.S.).