DIRECTOR OF MEDIA RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS

Columbia Association, headquartered in Howard County, Maryland, is known for engaging our diverse community, cultivating a unique sense of place, and enhancing the quality of life in Columbia, Maryland, all thanks to the efforts of our remarkable team members. If you share in our passion for teamwork and our vision, we want you to fast-forward your career with us at Columbia Association.

Director of Media Relations & Communications

Job Summary :

The Director of Media Relations and Communications is responsible for leading and shaping Columbia Association (CA's) media relations strategy and organizational communications. This senior leadership role oversees the development and execution of high impact publicity campaigns, ensuring CA's brand image remains consistent, compelling, and widely recognized. The Director collaborates with senior leadership and cross functional teams to implement a unified communications strategy that engages CA's membership, general public, and media stakeholders.

This position leads a dynamic team - including social media, multi-media and graphic designer talent-and serves as a strategic advisor to internal departments providing expert guidance on communication initiatives and ensuring alignment with CA's mission and vision.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive multi-channel communications strategy that enhances CA's visibility and reputation locally and regionally
• Serve as an advisor to the President, senior leadership and department heads, offering strategic counsel on media relations, brand positioning and public engagement
• Oversee all media planning and execution, including social media campaigns, press briefings, talking points, and story pitches, ensuring alignment with organizational goals
• Act as CA's primary media spokesperson, representing the organization in interviews, press conferences, and public forums
• Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with key media outlets, influencers, and external partners to drive consistent and positive coverage that reflects the values and mission of CA
• Lead strategic storytelling initiatives across all digital platforms, ensuring brand consistency and audience engagement
• Ensure brand consistency across all marketing and communications content, including digital, print and multimedia platforms
• Establish performance metrics and reporting systems to evaluate the effectiveness of communications campaigns and media outreach
• Direct and mentor the communications team, fostering a culture of creativity, accountability, and professional growth
• Implement and maintain policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs)to ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality communications output
• Monitor and assess emerging trends in media and communications, adapting strategies to maintain relevance and impact

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS :

WORKING CONDITIONS :

The salary range for this position is $160K to $170K. The actual salary offered will depend on the overall qualifications of the individual applicant for the position and the budgeted amount for the role. CA offers a positive, fun work environment and a generous benefits package. Full-time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), a free Fit & Play membership, Wellness benefits w / perks and paid leave.

Columbia Association is an equal employment opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to the following legally protected characteristics : race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military / veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal law. EOE / ADA. We encourage applications from candidates who can contribute to the diversity of our organization. Over and above non-discrimination, CA's mission includes engaging our diverse community and meeting the evolving needs of a dynamic and inclusive community. That's why we welcome folks of diverse or marginalized backgrounds and abilities to apply to become part of the CA team.