Director of Communications Job Description

Public relations (PR) directors manage communications campaigns and strategy for their organisation or clients.

Director of Communications Job Description Template

Our company is looking for a Director of Communications to join our team.

Responsibilities:

  • Measure the effectiveness of all marketing initiatives and collaborate accordingly;
  • Create and maintain robust libraries of donor and grantee stories, photos, videos and press releases;
  • Manage and mentor department staff to integrate efforts on communications programs;
  • Assist in the initial stage of the hiring process of new department staff;
  • Accountable for developing that Communication Vision into an effective and streamlined work process and then communicating that process;
  • Approve timesheets, expense reports and check requests, as required;
  • Engaging and maintaining relationships with communications professionals around the University and nearby academic communities;
  • Serving as a member of the Center’s leadership team, helping to make decisions about processes, staffing, and other management issues as they arise;
  • Plan and oversee set press visits;
  • Collaborates with in house graphic designer to produce marketing and fundraising collateral;
  • Conduct media briefings and media conference calls featuring FDD experts;
  • Develop and execute annual communications plan which includes donor relations, advocacy, digital and regional strategies;
  • Write and edit press releases, op-eds, and other communications materials;
  • Other duties as assigned;
  • Produce scripts, editorials, run of shows and messaging platforms when necessary.

Requirements:

  • Can work additional hours beyond regular business hours;
  • Highly organized, creative and self-motivated with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously;
  • Knowledge of the DuPage County community and philanthropic landscape a plus;
  • Minimum of five years of relevant experience with demonstrated success in designing and implementing communications strategies and campaigns;
  • Exceptional writer and experience distilling highly complex and nuanced ideas into digestible, compelling content for a variety of audiences;
  • Results oriented, enthusiastic, resourceful, and creative with a can-do positive attitude;
  • Ability to build strong working relationships with faculty, staff, members of the media, and the general public;
  • Knack for translating complex topics into compelling, digestible stories;
  • Prior experience in an educational environment strongly desired;
  • Exhibits ample evidence of strong writing, editing and interpersonal skills;
  • Uncanny ability to connect the dots across multiple initiatives;
  • Can give feedback thoughtfully and receive it gracefully;
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of a team, know when to act independently and when to consult for advice on decision-making;
  • Exceptional ability to write and communicate clearly and concisely;
  • Strong computer skills with familiarity with Mac OS, Microsoft Office, email clients, Internet research, and social networking tools.