Director of Marketing & Communications - Umoja Community Education Foundation

The Director of Communications will lead the strategic development and execution of UCEF’s communications initiatives. This role is responsible for supervising the Communications Specialist and Communications Manager, ensuring that all communications are aligned with UCEF’s mission and strategic goals. The Director of Communications will collaborate closely with the Chief Development and Communications Officer to advance the organization’s visibility, engagement, and influence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Strategy: o Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that supports UCEF’s mission and enhances its public presence.
• Oversee the work of the Communications Specialist and Communications Manager, providing guidance, mentorship, and support to ensure high-quality output.
• Collaborate with the Chief Development and Communications Officer on strategic initiatives, messaging, and branding efforts.
• Ensure consistency in messaging and brand voice across all communication channels, including digital, print, and media.

Content and Media Relations:

• Lead the creation and distribution of key content, including press releases, op-eds, speeches, and reports.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, building and maintaining strong relationships with media outlets.
• Oversee the development of engaging content for UCEF’s website, social media, newsletters, and other communication platforms.
• Manage crisis communication efforts and provide leadership during times of public scrutiny.

Team Management:

• Supervise and support the Communications Specialist and Communications Manager in their day-to-day responsibilities, including content creation, social media management, and marketing efforts.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, set goals, and provide professional development opportunities for the communications team.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative team environment that encourages creative problem-solving and proactive communication strategies.

Marketing and Branding:

• Work closely with the Communications Manager to design and execute marketing campaigns that promote UCEF’s programs, events, and fundraising initiatives.
• Oversee the development and implementation of branding guidelines to ensure a consistent and professional image across all materials.
• Analyze the effectiveness of marketing and communication efforts, using data-driven insights to refine strategies.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including community leaders, partners, donors, and the media.
• Represent UCEF at public events, conferences, and in media interviews as needed.
• Collaborate with the Development team to support fundraising efforts through targeted communications and donor engagement strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Advanced degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in communications, public relations, or a related field, with a minimum of 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing successful communication strategies.
• Strong leadership skills with experience supervising and mentoring staff.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools, social media platforms, and content management systems (CMS).
• Experience in crisis communication and media relations.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of non-profit organizations and the education sector is a plus.

Benefits

• Eligibility for medical, vision and dental insurance covered at 100% (Employee only); 

• 10 Days of paid vacation 

• 48 hours of paid sick leave; 

• 14 Company-paid holidays  

• 401K Retirement Plan (matched up to 4%) 

• $2500 in Professional Development Funds annually 

• $75 monthly stipend towards Cell Phone and Internet 

Please note that all benefits are subject to change at the discretion of the employer. 

Salary Range is $90,000-$110,000