Associate Director, Communications

Associate Director of Communications

As the Associate Director of Communications , you'll lead JASA's communications strategy, elevate the organization's brand, and oversee agency-wide messaging that highlights the impact of JASA's programs and services. Reporting to the Chief External Relations Officer, you'll collaborate with executive leadership, program teams, trustees, and external partners to develop innovative communications initiatives, manage media relations, supervise a talented communications team, and strengthen JASA's visibility throughout New York City.

Shift Schedule:

Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Hours Per Week:

35

Why You'll Love Working at JASA

JASA is one of New York City's largest and most respected nonprofit organizations serving older adults. Every day, our team helps thousands of New Yorkers age with dignity, independence, and security while making a lasting impact in the communities we serve.

Top Reasons to Join Us

Shape JASA's Brand & Impact

• Lead the organization's communications strategy and public image
• Elevate awareness of programs that improve the lives of older adults across NYC
• Tell compelling stories that inspire donors, partners, policymakers, and the community

Strategic Leadership

• Partner directly with executive leadership and the Board of Trustees
• Supervise and mentor a growing communications team
• Influence organization-wide messaging and communications priorities

Creative & Collaborative Environment

• Work alongside program leaders, advocacy teams, PR consultants, and external partners
• Lead high-profile campaigns, publications, and media opportunities
• Drive innovative communications initiatives across multiple platforms

About the Role

The Associate Director of Communications is responsible for developing and executing JASA's comprehensive communications strategy while strengthening the organization's brand recognition, media presence, and community engagement.

This position oversees communications planning, media relations, content development, digital communications, publications, social media strategy, and special initiatives that advance JASA's mission.

This role requires working from JASA's Central Office or in the field at least three days per week , with additional evening and weekend attendance required for events and media opportunities.

What You'll Be Doing

Communications Strategy & Brand Leadership

• Develop and implement JASA's annual communications strategy
• Build communications plans that support fundraising, advocacy, and organizational growth
• Increase brand visibility among:
  • Donors and prospective supporters
  • Clients and caregivers
  • Government officials
  • Community organizations
  • Corporate partners
  • Media outlets
  • General public
• Support agency-wide marketing, branding, and communications initiatives
• Assist with projects including:
  • Website redesign with accessibility focus
  • Brand redesign and rollout
  • Marketing campaigns
  • Organizational messaging

Content Development & Storytelling

• Lead the development of JASA's annual Impact Report
• Collaborate with program leadership to identify compelling client stories
• Conduct client interviews (virtual and in-person)
• Develop engaging written content for multiple audiences
• Coordinate photography, metrics, testimonials, and program highlights
• Ensure consistent messaging across all communications

Media Relations & Public Visibility

• Work closely with JASA's PR consultants to identify media opportunities
• Develop media pitches supporting organizational campaigns
• Coordinate interviews and press opportunities
• Identify opportunities for JASA leadership and staff to serve as:
  • Subject matter experts
  • Conference speakers
  • Award nominees
  • Media spokespersons
• Support crisis communications and reputation management efforts

Digital Communications & Marketing

• Oversee social media strategy across multiple platforms
• Expand JASA's online presence and digital engagement
• Explore opportunities to maximize Google Grant resources
• Ensure consistent messaging across:
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
  • Email campaigns
  • Website
  • Digital marketing platforms

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise:
  • Digital Content & Communications Manager
  • Communications Associate
• Review and approve communications materials
• Provide coaching and professional development
• Ensure staff receive Canva and Emma training
• Oversee communications consultants and vendors
• Monitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables

Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Co-chair JASA's Outreach Committee
• Build relationships with:
  • Trustees
  • Program leadership
  • Advocacy team
  • Corporate partners
  • Community organizations
  • Government officials
• Oversee the Client Ambassador Program
• Identify clients for:
  • Media opportunities
  • Corporate volunteer events
  • Donor engagement
  • Public speaking opportunities

Fundraising & Advocacy Communications

• Support fundraising initiatives through strategic communications
• Partner with the Advocacy Team to develop newsletters and outreach materials
• Create communications highlighting JASA's impact within elected officials' districts
• Recommend new audiences and engagement opportunities

Additional Responsibilities

• Prepare Board Communications Reports
• Monitor communications projects from concept through completion
• Travel throughout New York City as needed
• Attend occasional evening and weekend events
• Perform other duties as assigned

What You'll Need

Education

• Bachelor's degree required

Experience

• 6-10 years of progressively responsible experience in:
  • Strategic communications
  • Marketing
  • Public relations
• Experience working within complex nonprofit organizations is preferred
• Experience supervising communications staff and consultants
• Proven experience leading organization-wide communications strategies

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills
• Strong executive communications abilities
• Experience working with New York media outlets
• Crisis communications and reputation management experience
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities
• Strong strategic planning and organizational skills
• Ability to analyze communications effectiveness
• Familiarity with fundraising communications
• Positive, collaborative attitude with a sense of humor
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion
• Willingness to travel throughout all five boroughs of New York City and Long Island
• Ability to work evenings or off-hours during urgent communications situations

Technology Skills

• Microsoft Office Suite
• Google Workspace
• Canva
• Emma or similar email marketing platform
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Other social media platforms
• Adobe Creative Suite preferred
• Ability to quickly learn new communications technologies

Benefits at a Glance

JASA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and future.

Health & Wellness

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options
• Employee Wellness Programs (fitness + mental health support)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Retirement Savings

• 403(b) retirement plan
• Pension plan with employer contributions

Generous Time Off

• Paid vacation time
• Holidays and floating holidays
• Paid time off for work-life balance

Professional Development

• Training and continuing education opportunities
• Career growth within the organization

Employee Recognition

• Employee recognition programs celebrating contributions

EEO Statement

JASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification under federal, state, or local law.