Director, Communications & Social Impact

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is seeking a Director of Communications for Lever for Change to lead strategic communications, elevate visibility, and engage a global donor and media audience from its Chicago headquarters.

You will design and drive messaging that supports LFC’s mission, partners, and high-profile initiatives while collaborating with internal and external stakeholders across the philanthropy field.

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of full-time experience in strategic communications.
• BA/BS in Communications, Public Relations, Public Affairs, Media, Marketing or equivalent.
• Exceptional written and verbal communications skills.
• Experience in nonprofit sector and social change.
• Strategic and creative thinker under time pressure.
• Strong understanding of social media tactics.
• Ability to communicate complex social issues clearly to a general audience.
• Organizational, interpersonal skills and collaborative workstyle.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a full communications strategy for LFC audiences.
• Create, communicate and negotiate communications plans with ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
• Develop messaging and connect to key audiences.
• Write press releases, web content, op-eds, talking points and updates.
• Build relationships with media and maintain press contacts.
• Manage external marketing and communications firms.
• Coordinate with MacArthur Communications for 100 Change.
• Produce the quarterly Lever for Change newsletter.
• Develop social media strategy for LFC launches and events.
• Issue multiple press releases per competition.
• Develop collateral for Bold Solutions Network and products.
• Assist in LFC website development and messaging focus.
• Identify storytelling opportunities to communicate value.
• Refine LFC brand and guidelines.
• Advise applicants on storytelling of impact.
• Suggest conferences and speaking opportunities.
• Use Google Analytics to refine messaging.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Strategic communications

Media relations

Social media tactics

Writing & storytelling

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Time management under pressure

Collaborative workstyle

Analytical thinking

Public affairs knowledge

Nonprofit sector experience

Google Analytics

Education

BA/BS in Communications, Public Relations, Public Affairs, Marketing or equivalent

Tools

Google Analytics

Job description

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is seeking a Director of Communications for Lever for Change to lead strategic communications, elevate visibility, and engage a global donor and media audience from its Chicago headquarters.

You will design and drive messaging that supports LFC’s mission, partners, and high-profile initiatives while collaborating with internal and external stakeholders across the philanthropy field.