Director of Public Relations & Media Strategy

BOF The Barack Obama Foundation; United States; Hybrid; USD 104,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Obama Foundation is seeking a dynamic Press Secretary to amplify its stories across traditional media and creator/influencer channels. You will lead audience-focused communications, surface compelling narratives, and coordinate with editorial teams to advance the Foundation’s mission from the South Side of Chicago and at the Obama Presidential Center.

You will collaborate with external PR resources, guide major events, and report to the Vice President of Communications, ensuring cohesive

Qualifications

• 8 years in public relations, media relations, or strategic communications, preferably in a nonprofit, government, or mission-driven organization.
• Established network of national and local press contacts, with a proven track record of securing high-impact coverage.
• Strong ability to identify and package compelling narratives that align with institutional goals.
• Experience navigating media crises and rapid response scenarios.
• Experience managing teams, external consultants, and cross-functional projects.
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment with strategic agility and discretion.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Communications & Media Relations: Support the VP of Communications in developing and executing a public relations strategy that translates the Foundation’s mission to key external stakeholders.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with national and local traditional media, securing high-impact earned media coverage. Work with the social media team to engage audience-based communicators, such as influencers, to amplify the Foundation’s messaging.
• Storytelling & Message Development: Surface, package, and pitch compelling stories that highlight the Foundation’s impact, leadership, and programming. Ensure messaging consistency and alignment across all public-facing communications.
• Major Events & Program Launches: Lead media strategy, planning, and execution for major Foundation events, announcements, and program milestones. Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to maximize press coverage and public engagement.
• Crisis Communications & Rapid Response: Support the development of crisis communications protocols and playbooks. Provide strategic counsel and rapid response to emerging media opportunities and challenges.
• External Partnerships & Consultant Management: Manage relationships with external PR agencies, consultants, and strategic communications partners. Oversee contract deliverables to ensure alignment with the Foundation’s communications goals.
• Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration: Provide mentorship and leadership within the communications team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Special Projects & Emerging Opportunities: Lead and oversee special communications projects that advance the Foundation’s mission and visibility.

Skills

Public relations

Media relations

Strategic communications

Leadership

Crisis management

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

The Obama Foundation is seeking a dynamic Press Secretary to amplify its stories across traditional media and creator/influencer channels. You will lead audience-focused communications, surface compelling narratives, and coordinate with editorial teams to advance the Foundation’s mission from the South Side of Chicago and at the Obama Presidential Center.

You will collaborate with external PR resources, guide major events, and report to the Vice President of Communications, ensuring cohesive