Director of Communications, New California Coalition

New California Coalition; California; On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The New California Coalition (NCC) seeks an experienced Director of Communications to lead messaging, media relations, and storytelling for California policy initiatives. This role focuses on developing a comprehensive communications strategy that elevates NCC’s visibility and strengthens engagement with key audiences.

Based in the Bay Area, you will collaborate with leadership, policy, investor relations, and partnerships teams to shape and amplify NCC’s voice across traditional and digital

Qualifications

• Background in journalism, media, public relations, or strategic communications.
• Proven track record of developing and executing communications strategies in advocacy or nonprofit settings.
• Strong writing and storytelling across formats and channels.
• Experience managing media relations and securing press coverage.
• Familiarity with digital media, social media, and content marketing.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for NCC’s mission and California-focused public policy.

Responsibilities

• Media relations and journalism outreach to secure press coverage.
• Strategic messaging and narrative development for key stakeholders.
• Content creation and storytelling across reports, newsletters, blogs, speeches, and social media.
• Digital and social media strategy and website content management.
• Event promotion, investor convenings, and policy forums coverage.
• Track performance metrics and impact of communications efforts.

Skills

Journalism

Media relations

Strategic communications

Writing

Storytelling

Digital media

Social media management

Content marketing

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Director of Communications, New California Coalition

Position Overview:
The New California Coalition (NCC) seeks an experienced and strategic Director of Communications to lead the organization’s messaging, media relations, and storytelling efforts. This role will focus on developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy that elevates NCC’s visibility, strengthens engagement with key audiences, and ensures alignment across all platforms. The ideal candidate is based in the Bay Area, has a background in journalism and a strong understanding of media, narrative development, and public engagement. The Director of Communications will collaborate closely with leadership, policy, investor relations, and partnerships teams to shape and amplify NCC’s voice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Media Relations & Journalism Outreach: Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, and media outlets to secure press coverage that highlights NCC’s work and impact. Draft and distribute press releases, op-eds, and media advisories. Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and coordinate interviews for NCC leadership.
• Strategic Messaging & Narrative Development: Craft and refine NCC’s messaging to ensure clarity, consistency, and resonance with key stakeholders, including policymakers, investors, and the public. Develop compelling narratives that communicate NCC’s mission, policy priorities, and successes.
• Content Creation & Storytelling: Oversee the development of written, visual, and multimedia content, including reports, newsletters, blogs, speeches, and social media. Translate complex policy issues into accessible and engaging content for diverse audiences.
• Digital & Social Media Strategy: Lead NCC’s digital presence by developing and executing social media strategies that drive engagement and amplify NCC’s work. Manage website content and oversee the production of multimedia assets.
• Event Promotion & Public Relations: Develop communication strategies for major events, investor convenings, and policy forums. Lead media outreach, event promotion, and live coverage strategies to maximize impact and engagement.
• Performance Metrics & Impact Assessment: Track and analyze communication efforts, media coverage, and digital engagement metrics to refine strategies and improve effectiveness over time.

Qualifications:

• Background in journalism, media, public relations, or strategic communications, with a deep understanding of how to engage and work with reporters.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful communications strategies within advocacy, nonprofit, or policy-driven organizations.
• Strong writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives across multiple formats and channels.
• Experience managing media relations, pitching stories, and securing press coverage.
• Familiarity with digital media, social media management, and content marketing strategies.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
• Passion for and commitment to the mission of the New California Coalition and its work in shaping a better future for California.