Strategic Communications Manager — Hybrid/Remote

The-Chicago-Council-On-Global-Affairs; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible remote/in-office schedule

Medical/Dental/Vision insurance

Paid time off

Retirement match

Parental leave

Mobile phone stipend

Pre-tax commuter/parking benefits

Job summary

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, based in Chicago, seeks a Communications Manager to expand its public presence and elevate the visibility of its work. Reporting to the Director of Editorial and Digital Content, the role oversees social media, media engagement, and executive communications.

You will craft strategies to highlight research and programs, manage channels, and coordinate digital content. A strong candidate brings 7+ years in communications and a passion for global affairs.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive experience in communications or journalism.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated track record of increasing an organization's visibility through strategic communications.
• Hands-on experience with organizational social media accounts with a strong understanding of audience dynamics and content strategy.
• Familiarity with digital communications tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Sprout Social, Meltwater, Salesforce, Drupal CMS).
• Strong news judgment and ability to operate effectively under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative working style across departments, including senior leadership, research staff, and external contributors.
• Fluency in digital communications trends and a genuine interest in global affairs and public policy.
• Experience producing or coordinating short-form video content and multimedia assets is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute communications strategies that elevate the Council’s research, experts, publications, programs, and special initiatives.
• Manage and grow the Council's presence across social media platforms (LinkedIn, X, Instagram, YouTube) to amplify work and thought leadership.
• Serve as the organization's primary media contact; pitch Council research, events, and experts to journalists and editors.
• Collaborate with the President's office and senior leadership on executive communications and thought leadership positioning.
• Contribute to the production and distribution of short-form digital content, including video clips, graphics, and written summaries.
• Monitor media coverage and social media performance; prepare analytics reports and translate data into strategic recommendations.
• Draft and distribute announcements, newsletters, press releases, media advisories, op-ed placements, and other external materials.

Skills

Communications strategy

Written communication

Verbal communication

Social media management

Collaboration across departments

Deadline-driven

Global affairs interest

Tools

Google Analytics

Sprout Social

Meltwater

Salesforce

Drupal CMS

Job description

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, based in Chicago, seeks a Communications Manager to expand its public presence and elevate the visibility of its work. Reporting to the Director of Editorial and Digital Content, the role oversees social media, media engagement, and executive communications.

You will craft strategies to highlight research and programs, manage channels, and coordinate digital content. A strong candidate brings 7+ years in communications and a passion for global affairs.