Director of Communications and Public Relations

Director of Communications and Public Relations Position Description

To Apply 

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to contact the consultants directly in confidence. Candidates will ultimately need to submit the following materials as separate PDF documents: 

• A cover letter expressing their interest in this particular position; 
• A current résumé; 
• Samples of professional writing: newsletter, articles, communication to school community; 
• A list of five professional references with name, relationship, phone number, and email address of each (references will not be contacted without the candidate’s permission) to: 
  • Sara Shulman Practice Leader – Development and Finance 
    • sara.shulman@carneysandoe.com 
  • Jonathan Ball Senior Consultant 
    • jonathan.ball@carneysandoe.com 

The full-time equivalent salary range for this position is $215,000-$250,000. The starting salary is based upon, but not limited to, several factors that include years of experience, education level, and expertise. 

Qualifications and Personal Attributes 

The most competitive candidates will offer most or all of the following qualifications and qualities 

• Substantial experience in leading communications, media relations and marketing, preferably in academic settings; 
• Meaningful exposure to and experience in managing crisis communications; 
• Excellent editing and writing skills, as well multi-media production experience;
• Strong understanding of message segmentation and scaffolding for the various constituent groups in an independent school; 
• The ability to articulate vision and strategy: the tactical skills to deftly manage the systems and processes necessary to implement strategy, and the organizational fluency to manage multiple streams of information and respond to situations as they emerge; 
• Expertise in digital marketing, website design, podcasts and social media and an understanding of trends and evolving best practices in these areas; 
• An understanding of how cross-cultural competencies relate to communications strategies and an ability to work across constituencies, deploying assorted styles in communication based upon intended goals and audiences; 
• A flexible mindset and a desire to learn, build energy, and create opportunities for an institutional shared vision and message; 
• Drive cross-functional collaboration to develop and execute integrated communication strategies that advance organizational priorities; 
• A collaborative leader who works across teams to develop and implement integrated communications strategies that advance institutional priorities; 
• Experience hiring, supporting, and leading other professionals, providing feedback with an eye towards continuous improvement, and operating within the broader framework of a learning community committed to talent management and career advancement; 
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with inspiration and clarity across a wide range of audiences; 
• Evidence of utilizing data for strategic planning, creative problem solving, and exploration of innovative opportunities; 
• The curiosity, confidence, and humility to advocate for innovative ideas, invite disagreement, and welcome feedback, engaging in challenging conversations with grace; 
• Interest in engaging in a lively and dynamic school environment; 
• A joyful spirit and fine sense of humor.