District of Columbia Public Charter School Board

Director of Communications

POSITION TITLE: Director of Communications
TEAM: Communications
LOCATION: Washington, DC

Position Summary:
The DC Public Charter School Board (PCSB) seeks a Director of Communications who will be responsible for the development and execution of the PCSB's communication and development strategy.

The Director of Communications reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for developing and executing communications strategies that advance the mission and goals of the organization. The ability to create excellent communications materials, forge strong relationships with a wide variety of external stakeholders, ensure that the PCSB remains a leading local and national voice as a charter authorizer, and manage foundation and philanthropic relationships are essential components to the job. The Director of Communications manages the Communications team which currently includes a Public Affairs Manager and Communications Manager.

Successful candidates will be highly skilled in public, government, and media relations. Previous success in non-profit development is also desired. Candidates should be knowledgeable about education reform and the role that high-performing charter schools play in that reform.

Responsibilities Include but Are Not Limited to:

Communications (approximately 75% of the role)

Develop and implement an integrated strategic communications plan with measurable milestones and outcomes.
Create and execute public relations strategy that will allow the PCSB to cultivate and enhance meaningful relationships with external audiences including the charter community, government agencies, local and national media, the philanthropic and non-profit community, charter parents and families, and other key stakeholders.
Oversee the creation, distribution, and maintenance of all print and electronic materials such as newsletters, school performance reports, annual reports, the PCSB website, and new media; manage relationships with associated vendors.
Manage the evolution of PCSB’s website such that it becomes a rich, interactive destination for multiple audiences; manage content and tone of all online properties to ensure consistency of messaging.
Write and disseminate press releases, op-eds, newsletters, and feature articles, including prompt, factual responses to current events; and more broadly, develop and place creative story ideas in multiple media channels.
Position the Board and staff as thought leaders on charter authorizing, and charter quality, autonomy and fidelity through media exposure.
Manage communications events like press briefings, the Charter School Excellence Award Ceremony, and the Charter School Recruitment Expo.
Serves as the PCSB’s Freedom of Information Act Officer to ensure that the public receives requested materials in a timely manner.
Manages government relations between the Council of the District of Columbia, the U.S. Congress and federal and local governments.
Researches and writes testimony for D.C. Council, Congressional or Board of Education hearings on policy issues important to charter schools.

Development (approximately 25% of the role)

Craft development strategic plans, fundraising goals and measures of success and to execute effective strategies to ensure that PCSB meets its annual and long-term fundraising goals in consultation with the Executive Director.
Manages relationships with current PCSB funders and philanthropic community to promote awareness and understanding of PCSB projects and initiatives, and identifies and pursues sources of support.
Cultivate existing and identify and cultivate new funding prospects, develop high-quality written proposals and reports, track correspondence with donors, support outreach to prospects and donors alone and/or with staff or Board members.

Qualifications/Requirements:

Bachelor's degree is required; an advanced degree is preferred, preferably in English, journalism, communications, business, public policy, or a related field.
Minimum of 7 years progressive leadership experience in communications, media relations, public and/or governmental affairs. Previous management experience preferred.
Demonstrated leadership in managing a comprehensive strategic communications, media relations, and/or development program to advance an organization's mission and goals.Excellent written, presentation, and communication skills and the experience and inclination to be an effective, outgoing spokesperson for the PCSB.
Excellent project management skills: ability to set and adhere to strict deadlines, manage multiple projects while maintaining a firm grasp of individual project details, ability to hold others accountable, comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, excellent planning and organizational skills.
Previous development experience.
A passion to improve educational opportunities for children and families is required; familiarity with the charter school community and education sector is strongly preferred.

Compensation:
Salary for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience prior experience. In addition, a comprehensive benefits package is included.

To Apply
The review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Applications should consist of a letter of interest and a current resume. Applications or inquiries about the position should be directed to: pcsbjobs@dcpubliccharter.com. Please include "Director of Communications" in the subject line.

The D.C. Public Charter School Board is an equal opportunity employer.
No third-party or telephone inquiries please.