Director of Communications

Director of Communications

Reports to: Chief of Staff

Manages: Digital Communications Manager and Graphic Designer

Job Summary: The Director of Communications leads communication programs to support the deeply meaningful work of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility to advance a policy and advocacy agenda to end gun violence in Washington State. 

The Director of Communications is a member of the senior leadership team and works with the COS to develop and implement strategies relating to all external affairs of the Alliance, including communications, fundraising, policy messaging, and public education on gun violence prevention. This role works closely with our fundraising consultants on all fundraising efforts and manages our communications team. This role will have extensive board and community interactions and will use strong influencing and collaborative skills to progress the organization’s mission.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Communications

  • Ensure brand guidelines are adhered to internally and externally. Serve as in-house copy editor available to review and edit internal and external documents as needed.
  • Manage editorial calendar.
  • Develop and implement an integrated organizational strategic communications plan to increase public awareness, strengthen the Alliance’s brand identity, and advance organizational goals.
  • Monitor federal action on GVP and identify opportunities for engagement. Rapidly respond to emergent events. 
  • Work with the leadership team to ensure effective communication strategies are embraced throughout the organization.
  • Act as an integral team member in event planning and execution (e.g. Summits, candidate trainings, celebrations).
  • Stay abreast of best practices in communications trends.
  • Work with the board and staff to recognize internal and external communications opportunities and define and execute appropriate strategies to support them. 
  • Produce/oversee all written material necessary to meet communications needs including talking points, prepared remarks, statements, media advisories and releases, website material, email copy, publications, and other content as needed.
  • Manage all media relations, including leading press outreach to ensure coverage, responding to press inquiries, making internal recommendations for press strategy, and other related responsibilities.
  • Develop and provide message training for a variety of targeted groups such as staff and board, endorsed candidates, and local elected officials.

Fundraising/Development

  • Provide input to consultants for the creation and successful accomplishment of an ongoing diversified development program for the C4, C3, and PAC.
  • Serve as project lead for the development of the annual fundraising luncheon program and collateral, including working with consultants and staff to identify concepts, recruit speakers, and produce content.
  • Develop and implement an effective online and email fundraising program.
  • Collaborate on direct mail and planned giving programs.
  • Stay abreast of best practices in fundraising trends.

Miscellaneous

  • Advise CEO on organizational strategy and infrastructure.
  • Manage consultants (web developers, videographers, etc.) as needed.
  • Manage fellows and interns on Communications and Fundraising projects.
  • Support PAC activities, including vetting candidates.
  • Represent the Alliance at community events as appropriate.
  • Serve as staff lead for the External Affairs Committee.
  • Manage Communications budget.
  • Track and report on Communications and Fundraising metrics.

SKILLS, EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Experience: 7+ years relevant development and communications experience; at least 3 years in a management capacity; or commensurate experience; nonprofits preferred.
  • Education: Degree in Marketing, Communications, or related field. Or relevant experience.
  • Communication skills: Excellent written and oral communication skills; diplomatic and empathetic. Ability to practice good judgment and discretion. 
  • Interpersonal skills: Ability to interact at all levels of the organization, including the Board of Directors, senior team, staff, donors, volunteers, community members, gun violence prevention survivors, and sponsors; as well as an understanding of organizational dynamics. Exemplary customer service.
  • Organizational skills: Proactive, well-organized, attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines; ability to work with minimal supervision, manage multiple tasks, and delegate as needed. 
  • Computers and systems: Experience with CRMs (EveryAction preferred), CMSs (WordPress preferred), and SMS platforms (Phone2Action preferred) is a must. HTML and CSS experience is highly desired. Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Zoom, accounting software, and other data management tools.
  • Flexibility: Ability to work in a fast-paced, highly productive environment. Comfortable with changes in priority and direction. Willing to work flexible hours if necessary, including occasional evenings and weekends.
  • Leadership: Ability to effectively manage a team and act as an integral part of the senior leadership team. 
  • Passion: Demonstrated commitment to progressive causes including gun violence prevention.

Salary & Benefits

  • Salary: $90 – 100k/yearly depending on qualifications.
  • Health, vision, and dental insurance are offered.
  • The Alliance offers a generous paid-time-off (PTO) package.
  • This position qualifies for enrollment in a 401(K) program after one (1) year of employment.

How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in the position and relevant experience, to [email protected] with the subject line “Director of Communications Application”

The Alliance for Gun Responsibility is committed to being an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.