Director, External Communications

Ladders; United States; Remote; USD 145,000 - 156,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension plan

Vacation days

Sick days

Holidays

Professional development

Job summary

Ladders is seeking a Director of External Communications to shape external messaging, elevate executive visibility, and strengthen media relationships across global audiences. You will partner with senior leaders to translate priorities into clear narratives that protect and advance the organization's reputation, even in times of crisis.

This remote US-based role offers a salary of $145,000 to $156,000 per year, with benefits and a focus on international development and global health sectors.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in media relations, public affairs, or strategic communications.
• Experience in global media relations and executive visibility strategies.
• Proven track record in crisis communications and reputation management.
• Experience in international development or global health sectors preferred.
• Established media relationships are a plus.
• Strong strategic writing and editing skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute media and executive visibility strategies
• Build relationships with journalists and industry influencers
• Prepare executives for media interviews and public appearances
• Create a global media relations framework for consistent messaging
• Monitor media coverage and trends for strategic insights
• Serve on the crisis response team for effective communication during issues
• Lead thought leadership and executive communications strategies

Skills

Strategic writing

Media relations

Crisis communications

Executive communications

Editing

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, PR, or related field

Job description

For our client, we are seeking a Director, External Communications to join the team of a leader in the Education, Government & Non-Profit space.

This role will shape external messaging that elevates executive visibility, strengthens media relationships, and supports the organization’s reputation across global audiences. The director will partner closely with senior leaders and cross-functional stakeholders to ensure consistent, compelling communication during both routine engagement and times of crisis. The position calls for a strategic communicator who can translate organizational priorities into clear narratives that build trust and support broader mission outcomes.

Location: Remote - US based candidates only, no visa sponsorship available

Compensation: $145,000 - $156,000 annually

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute media and executive visibility strategies
• Build relationships with journalists and industry influencers
• Prepare executives for media interviews and public appearances
• Create a global media relations framework for consistent messaging
• Monitor media coverage and trends for strategic insights
• Serve on the crisis response team for effective communication during issues
• Lead thought leadership and executive communications strategies

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in media relations, public affairs, or strategic communications
• Experience in global media relations and executive visibility strategies
• Proven track record in crisis communications and reputation management
• Experience in international development or global health sectors preferred
• Established media relationships are a plus
• Strong strategic writing and editing skills

Benefits

• 7% contribution to a pension plan
• 18 days of paid vacation per year
• 12 sick days per year
• 11 paid holidays per year
• Support for professional development and work/life balance

Our client is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every qualification-your background could be exactly what this team needs.