The client is seeking an experienced Vice President of Communications to help advance its mission and the work of its partner organizations. The role will shape and implement media relations strategy, establish and maintain relationships with national, regional, and local media, and position the coalition as a trusted go-to resource for timely information on issues impacting higher education and related democratic values.
In collaboration with organizational leadership, the Vice President will support advocacy planning within the sector and in political domains. The role will regularly update a comprehensive crisis communications plan, conduct scenario planning with leadership and external communications partners, prepare spokespeople for high-stakes moments with calm and direct counsel, and serve as a strategic advisor during rapid, high-pressure situations.
The Vice President will develop and maintain the organization’s website, create content and an audience acquisition strategy for social media, and execute early initiatives including content development and editorial planning. The role will also liaise with subject matter experts to coordinate and advise on content creation, collaborate with communications colleagues across partner organizations, and hire and manage 1–2 communications team members while overseeing consultant relationships as needed. Candidates should align with The client’s mission, bring senior-level communications experience managing staff or contractors and delivering successful strategies, demonstrate strong strategic judgment under pressure, have proven writing and editing strengths, possess relevant background in higher education and journalism or nonprofit/advocacy communications, and be proficient with common digital productivity tools such as Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.