Director of Communications

Job Description

Director of Communications

Arlington, VA (Hybrid : 3 Days Onsite) | Full-Time | $120,000–$130,000 / year

A national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving mental health outcomes across the United States is seeking an experienced and mission-driven Director of Communications to lead and execute integrated strategies that elevate awareness, advocacy, and engagement.

This role is ideal for a communications leader with deep expertise in strategic storytelling, media relations, and stakeholder engagement who thrives in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment.

Position Overview

The Director of Communications works closely with senior leadership to shape and deliver cohesive messaging across media, internal communications, and digital channels. This role oversees a dynamic team responsible for media relations, publications, field and internal communications, and brand storytelling across the organization’s national platforms.

The Director will serve as both strategist and storyteller — helping to drive awareness, engagement, and trust among stakeholders while advancing the organization’s long-term strategic plan .

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive communications strategies to strengthen the organization’s brand and expand its reach.

Lead external and internal communications to position the organization as a national leader in mental health advocacy.

Manage and mentor a small communications team, fostering creativity, collaboration, and accountability.

Oversee key functions including media relations , content development , publications , town halls , webinars , and field communications .

Shape and execute campaigns that promote the organization’s programs, policy priorities, and public awareness initiatives.

Collaborate with marketing and development teams to leverage ambassadors, influencers, and partnerships for greater visibility and engagement.

Serve as a spokesperson and media contact when appropriate; build relationships with journalists and partner organizations.

Edit and approve thought leadership materials such as blogs, position papers, and social content.

Identify emerging communications trends to strengthen outreach strategies.

Manage budgets, reporting, and performance metrics for communications initiatives.

Support the creation of board and quarterly communications reports.

Requirements

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or related field required.

10+ years of progressive experience in communications, preferably in the nonprofit or mission-driven sector .

Proven success in developing and executing integrated communications plans tied to measurable outcomes.

Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across print and digital platforms.

5+ years of supervisory experience with demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.

Experience managing multi-channel campaigns, including digital, print, and broadcast .

Excellent project management and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

Skilled public speaker with strong interpersonal communication skills.

Knowledge of legislative processes , grassroots advocacy , or mental health communications is highly desirable.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite ; familiarity with content management systems and social media platforms.

Willingness to travel up to 10% of the time.

Must pass background check.

Benefits

Compensation & Work Environment

Salary : $120,000–$130,000 / year

Location : Hybrid (must be based in or near Arlington, VA)

Schedule : 3 days per week onsite

Employment Type : Full-Time

Requirements

10+ years of progressive experience in communications, preferably in the nonprofit or mission-driven sector. Proven success in developing and executing integrated communications plans tied to measurable outcomes. Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across print and digital platforms. 5+ years of supervisory experience with demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams. Experience managing multi-channel campaigns, including digital, print, and broadcast. Excellent project management and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Skilled public speaker with strong interpersonal communication skills. Knowledge of legislative processes, grassroots advocacy, or mental health communications is highly desirable.gns.