Lead Communications & Media Strategy Director

IDEA; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

IDEA, Islamic Development & Empowerment in America, based in the Alexandria, VA Office, seeks an Assistant Director of Communications to lead our communications and media relations team and advance the organization’s mission through strategic storytelling. The role requires strong leadership, crisis planning, and cross‑functional collaboration, with travel as needed.

A proven nonprofit communications background and U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s in international development, economics, sociology or related fields preferred.
• 7–10 years of experience in communication and media relations in progressively more responsible roles.
• 3–5 years of direct supervisory experience managing multi-disciplinary communications staff.
• Strong leadership, crisis management, and project management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead IDEA's communications and media relations, aligning with organizational strategy.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the communications team and define KPIs, workflows, budgets.
• Engage media and manage relationships with external vendors.
• Develop crisis response protocols and manage reputational risk.
• Report to upper management on project status and results.
• Support planning with executive leadership and staff to seize opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Crisis management

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Job description

IDEA, Islamic Development & Empowerment in America, based in the Alexandria, VA Office, seeks an Assistant Director of Communications to lead our communications and media relations team and advance the organization’s mission through strategic storytelling. The role requires strong leadership, crisis planning, and cross‑functional collaboration, with travel as needed.

A proven nonprofit communications background and U.S.