Chief, Media Relations & Executive Communications

Ford Foundation; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 181,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Generous time off including holidays

Job summary

The Ford Foundation in New York seeks a Head of Media Relations and Executive Communications to lead its proactive press strategy and executive positioning. This role shapes the Foundation's narrative across earned and owned media, driving visibility for its mission and programs.

You will develop annual plans, cultivate global media relationships, prepare leadership for interviews, and guide media training. A senior, impact-focused communicator with nonprofit experience is ideal.

Qualifications

• Eight years of strategic communications experience, nonprofit/public sector preferred.
• Proven ability to manage executive positioning and media relationships internationally.
• Experience with sensitive issues and crisis management.
• Strong writing, storytelling, and spokesperson preparation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop annual media plans and coordinate partnerships.
• Cultivate relationships with media to secure coverage for leadership.
• Pitch and place stories to raise Ford Foundation profile.
• Respond to routine media inquiries with External Affairs team.
• Write and disseminate press releases for major initiatives.
• Coach spokespeople and design media training plans.
• Oversee media relations budget and vendor relations.
• Collaborate with Creative, Engagement, and Insights to amplify results.
• Educate staff on media outcomes and metrics.

Skills

Strategic communications

Media relations

Executive communications

Story placement

Written communication

Crisis management

Political acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in related field

Tools

Media tracking platforms

Press release distribution tools

Job description

The Ford Foundation in New York seeks a Head of Media Relations and Executive Communications to lead its proactive press strategy and executive positioning. This role shapes the Foundation's narrative across earned and owned media, driving visibility for its mission and programs.

You will develop annual plans, cultivate global media relationships, prepare leadership for interviews, and guide media training. A senior, impact-focused communicator with nonprofit experience is ideal.