Head of Communications & Digital Engagement

The American Occupational Therapy Association; North Bethesda (MD); Remote; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

AOTA seeks a Head of Communications & Digital Engagement to lead its communications strategy. This fully remote role focuses on enhancing the Association's visibility and engagement through strategic content development and digital platforms. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with expertise in omnichannel communications and a passion for the occupational therapy profession.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to translate complex ideas into compelling narratives.
• Experience leading high-performing teams in communications.

Responsibilities

• Designs and implements integrated communications strategies.
• Oversees AOTA web properties and social media strategy.
• Manages and mentors Communications team members.

Skills

Strategic Communications

Content Development

Digital Platforms

Data-Informed Storytelling

Project Management

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Head of Communications & Digital Engagement leads AOTA’s internal and external communications strategy to drive measurable awareness of, and engagement with, the Association and the occupational therapy profession. This role oversees messaging across all audiences, including staff, members, partners, and the public, and leads a high-performing team spanning web, social media, media relations, internal communications, and digital content.

This position is ideal for a strategic, hands-on communications leader who thrives in fast-paced environments and brings deep expertise in content development, digital platforms, and data-informed storytelling. The Head of Communications & Digital Engagement plays a key role in advancing AOTA’s digital evolution through the integration of modern tools, editorial planning, and audience engagement strategies.

The successful candidate will bring an entrepreneurial mindset, fluency in content and channel strategy, and a proven ability to translate complex ideas into compelling narratives. This is a highly visible leadership opportunity for someone who is eager to make a lasting impact on the organization and the profession.

WORK ENVIRONMENT (Remote):

This position is fully remote with hiring preferences near the DMV area. Hybrid options available in the Bethesda, MD Headquarters.

POSITION SPECIFIC DUTIES:

Strategic Communications Leadership

• Designs and implements integrated, omnichannel communications strategies in partnership with the Marketing team and internal stakeholders across Knowledge (Practice/Professional Development/Publications), Membership, Sales, Governance, DEIJAB, Meetings & Events, and People & Culture.
• Develops actionable communications plans to support organizational mission, brand positioning, and revenue objectives.

Content Strategy & Development

• Crafts compelling, audience-specific messages that inspire action and engagement.
• Leads enterprise-wide content strategy with an emphasis on digital platforms, anchored by centralized editorial calendars to align messaging and maximize reach.

Digital Platforms: Web & Social Media

• Oversees all AOTA web properties (aota.org, promoteot.org, otcentennial.org) and leads strategy to ensure content, design, and functionality provide an optimized user experience (UX).
• Conducts usability testing to ensure navigation, accessibility, and engagement across diverse audiences.
• Directs enterprise social media strategy; develops campaigns aligned with content goals and audience insights to grow reach and impact.

Media Relations & Thought Leadership

• Develops and executes public relations strategies that elevate AOTA’s visibility, reputation, and thought leadership.
• Cultivates relationships with key media outlets; secures earned media coverage and prepares staff and volunteer leaders for interviews.
• Serves as the primary media contact and spokesperson for AOTA.

Team Leadership & Development

• Manages, mentors, and inspires Communications team members; fosters a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Invests in professional development and builds a team structure that supports excellence across specialties.

Project Management & Analytics

• Leads cross-functional communications projects from concept through execution; ensures delivery on time, within budget, and with measurable results.
• Defines and tracks KPIs across platforms; applies data insights to optimize communications strategy and execution.

Relationship Management & Partnerships

• Serves as the Communications team’s primary advocate and collaborator across departments.
• Manages external agencies and consultants, ensuring quality and timely delivery of all projects.
• Performs other duties as assigned.