Senior Communications Manager

D&A Communications; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A mission-driven communications agency in San Francisco is seeking a Senior Communications Manager. Your role will involve building trusted client relationships, leading integrated communication strategies, and mentoring junior staff. You should have over 10 years of experience in PR, Communications, or Marketing, preferably with agency experience. If you are passionate about equity and inclusion, and are a confident advisor with the ability to create impactful campaigns, we invite you to apply.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in PR, Communications, Marketing, Advertising, or Public Affairs.
• 7+ years managing client relationships and projects.
• Strong understanding of DEI principles.

Responsibilities

• Build and grow trusted client relationships as a strategic advisor.
• Lead projects from strategy through execution.
• Develop and implement marketing and public engagement strategies.

Skills

Client management

Team leadership

Campaign development

Equity-centered communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications or related field

Advanced degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Drive

Slack

Project management tools

Job description

What You’ll Do

As a Senior Communications Manager, you’ll be a trusted advisor to mission-driven clients—building lasting relationships and leading integrated, equity-centered communication strategies that make an impact. You’ll guide project teams, develop creative campaigns, manage budgets and deliverables, and mentor junior staff.

Your work will amplify diverse voices, strengthen community connections, and elevate public awareness around issues like transportation access, affordable housing, and environmental resilience. From facilitating multicultural community meetings to shaping campaigns for beloved local places and public agencies, you’ll help tell the stories that move communities forward.

This role is based in San Francisco; you will be on-site in our office and at the client site frequently.

Key Responsibilities

Client Services

• Build and grow trusted client relationships, serving as a strategic partner and advisor.
• Lead projects from strategy through execution—developing work plans, budgets, timelines, and integrated communications campaigns rooted in equity and cultural insight.
• Develop and implement marketing, branding, media, and public engagement strategies that authentically connect with diverse audiences.
• Manage contracts, budgets, invoices, and vendor relationships to ensure smooth project delivery and financial accuracy.
• Identify new opportunities to expand client partnerships and drive long‑term growth.
• Represent clients and the agency at community events and meetings, including occasional evening or weekend activities.
• Contribute to new business efforts through proposal development and RFP responses.
• Lead and mentor Communications Managers, Associates, and creative staff—delegating tasks, setting expectations, and ensuring quality deliverables.
• Oversee team capacity, resource allocation, and workflow efficiency.
• Support professional growth through coaching, training, and consistent communication.
• Foster collaboration and problem‑solving to maintain a positive, high-performing team culture.

Who You Are

You’re an experienced communications professional with the skills and strategic insight to lead complex, mission-driven projects from start to finish. You’re passionate about equity, inclusion, and social impact—and you know how to turn those values into measurable results.

You bring proven expertise in client management, team leadership, and integrated communications—crafting campaigns that authentically connect with diverse and underrepresented communities.

You’re a confident advisor and clear communicator who thrives in fast-paced environments. Organized, proactive, and solutions-oriented, you inspire trust, embrace innovation, and consistently deliver high-quality work that makes a difference.

Education, Experience, Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, English, or related field (advanced degree a plus).
• 10+ years in PR, Communications, Marketing, Advertising, or Public Affairs — agency experience a must.
• 7+ years managing client relationships, projects, and cross-functional teams.
• 6+ years coaching and mentoring junior staff.
• Proven success in developing and executing integrated, equity-centered communication strategies.
• Deep experience engaging diverse and underrepresented communities and crafting culturally resonant messaging.
• Strong understanding of DEI principles and how to apply them in communications, marketing, and public engagement.
• Skilled in facilitation, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Mac), Google Drive, Slack, and project management tools.
• Familiarity with social media, analytics, multimedia, influencer marketing, and Canva or basic design tools is a plus.
• Experience working with government, public agencies, elected officials, or community-based organizations is highly desirable.

Why D&A?

We’re a team of bold thinkers with big hearts, committed to equity, creativity, and real-world transformation. We build trust, tell stories that matter, and create work that reflects the communities we serve.

If you’re a seasoned communicator who leads with purpose, champions equity, and turns strategy into meaningful impact, we’d love to meet you. Please submit your cover letter, resume, and salary requirements.