Associate Director / Director - Communications

Weekday AI (YC W21); Mumbai; On-site; INR 2,000,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Weekday AI (YC W21) is looking for a strategic Communications Leader based in Mumbai to shape brand narratives and engage stakeholders. This role requires a strong blend of strategic planning, storytelling, and digital leadership. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role. Responsibilities include developing tailored messaging, enhancing media visibility, and managing communications for sensitive topics. A Master's degree in Mass Communication is required, with a focus on social impact initiatives.

Qualifications

• 10-12 years of progressive experience in communications, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong communication skills in English; proficiency in Hindi or other regional languages is an advantage.
• Experience in the development sector preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a clear, mission-aligned communications strategy.
• Create tailored messaging for government bodies, education departments, and implementation partners.
• Manage communications around sensitive topics with a trauma-informed and ethical approach.

Skills

Strategic planning

Writing and storytelling

Media relations

Stakeholder management

Digital communication

Education

Master's degree in Mass Communication or related field

Tools

Content management systems

Job description

This role is for one of the Weekday's clients

Salary range: Rs 2000000 - Rs 2500000 (INR 20-25 LPA)

Experience: 10 years

Location: Mumbai

Job Type: Full-time

We are seeking a strategic and mission-driven communications leader to design and execute a comprehensive communications roadmap during a critical phase of organizational scale‑up. This role will be instrumental in shaping brand narrative, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and driving large‑scale awareness initiatives focused on prevention, education, and systemic change. The position requires a strong blend of strategy, storytelling, digital leadership, and ethical communication practices.

Key Objectives

• Lead communications strategy to support a shift from direct program delivery to a multi‑state, government‑led multiplier model
• Amplify awareness initiatives aimed at reaching millions of children and families through Personal Safety Education (PSE)
• Build compelling narratives for government stakeholders, institutional donors, and global partners
• Establish scalable systems, processes, and teams to support long‑term communication goals

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a clear, mission‑aligned communications strategy
• Create tailored messaging for government bodies, education departments, and implementation partners
• Establish a consistent brand voice that balances empathy, credibility, and advocacy across all channels

Digital & Creative Leadership

• Design and oversee a robust digital ecosystem across web, social media, and emerging platforms
• Ensure strong audience engagement while safeguarding institutional reputation

Media, Visibility & Thought Leadership

• Drive media relations, build journalist networks, and enhance organizational visibility
• Identify and secure speaking opportunities, conferences, and sector platforms
• Lead development of high‑impact communication assets such as reports, campaigns, and announcements

Campaigns & Events

• Conceptualize and execute large‑scale awareness campaigns aligned with organizational goals
• Lead communication strategies for fundraising initiatives, events, and public engagement drives

Ethical & Sensitive Communications Leadership

• Manage communications around sensitive topics with a trauma‑informed and ethical approach
• Ensure confidentiality, informed consent, and dignity in all storytelling and public messaging
• Handle crisis communications with maturity and responsibility

Donor & Stakeholder Communications

• Build strong, consistent communication journeys for donors and institutional partners
• Translate complex program data into compelling impact narratives
• Strengthen long‑term engagement with funders through strategic storytelling

Leadership & Team Management

• Build, mentor, and lead a high‑performing communications team across PR, digital, and creative functions
• Manage external agencies and partnerships effectively
• Oversee communications budgets and allocate resources for maximum impact

Key Challenges

• Navigating the ethical and reputational complexities of communicating on sensitive social issues
• Balancing large‑scale visibility with responsible, survivor‑centric storytelling

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong strategic planning and execution capabilities in communications
• Excellent writing and storytelling skills with the ability to simplify complex narratives
• Proven expertise in media relations, brand building, and digital communication
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship‑building skills
• Data‑driven mindset with experience in tracking communication KPIs and impact
• Proficiency in digital tools, social media platforms, and content management systems
• Strong communication skills in English; proficiency in Hindi or other regional languages is an advantage

Qualifications & Experience

• Master's degree in Mass Communication, Media Studies, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field
• 10-12 years of progressive experience in communications, including at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Experience in the development sector preferred; candidates from public health, gender, mental health, or journalism backgrounds are also encouraged to apply
• Demonstrated expertise in content strategy, crisis communication, donor engagement, and media outreach

Why This Role

• Opportunity to lead communications at scale and create meaningful social impact
• High‑visibility leadership role with direct influence on strategy and growth
• Chance to build systems, narratives, and campaigns that reach millions and drive lasting change