Supervisory Director, Communications

United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we connect people to possibility. With a mission to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives - we work collaboratively with local nonprofits, individuals, families, lived experience experts, businesses, community leaders, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues no one person or organization can address alone. As part of a global network while being local and autonomous, we are a nonpartisan organization that collaborates with leaders from all backgrounds to strengthen communities and expand opportunities for all. We serve as a cornerstone in our community, bringing together people and resources to create lasting change. Together, we are The Power of Caring. Working for All.

Purpose of Position :

United Way of Dane County is responsible for private investment of fundamental health and human services that focus on moving families from poverty to financial stability. The Community Engagement & Marketing (CEM) Department of United Way of Dane County has a goal of creating experiences that engage and inspire everyone in Dane County to give, advocate and volunteer - mobilizing the community's caring power. To support this vision, we employ strategies including marketing, communications, events, corporate and community volunteer facilitation and uplift the voice of the community to inform our work.

The Director of Communications is a visionary storyteller and strategist who amplifies United Way's mission, impact and community leadership across media, traditional and digital platforms and public narratives. Reporting to the VP of Community Engagement & Marketing, this position leads strategic and leadership communications, media relations and digital storytelling to build trust, deepen relationships and expand reach across diverse audiences. This includes developing narrative strategies, cultivating media partnerships, elevating brand and leveraging digital platforms for authentic, two-way engagement

This leadership role supervises the activities of one direct report and their ongoing job responsibilities, including - goal setting, professional development, mentorship and performance reviews.

Primary Responsibilities

35% Strategic Communications & Media Relations

• Develop and lead a comprehensive communications strategy centered on storytelling aligned with organizational goals and community impact strategies.
• Serve as the organization's lead storyteller and writer - crafting clear, compelling narratives that translate complex community work into stories that mobilize support.
• Create and provide executive-level counsel and writing support for major publications, events and CEO communications.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional media to secure earned media coverage, amplify initiatives and respond effectively to emerging issues.
• Create media materials- including advisories, press releases, op-eds, speeches and talking points- and ensure message alignment and brand consistency.
• Respond promptly to urgent media inquiries and time-sensitive communications.
• Monitor and evaluate media coverage and sentiment using analytics tools to inform strategy.

30% Brand and Digital Media

25% Supervision and Department / Organizational Leadership

10% Capacity Building, Internal Collaboration & Organizational Support

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Work Schedule, Location and Travel Requirements

Salary Range

$61,400- $66,400 (based on experience) . In addition to salary, we offer a comprehensive and generous benefits package. This includes health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance. United Way contributes 8% of gross wages to a defined contribution retirement plan, which is fully vested after five years of employment. Employees may also choose to contribute to a 403(b) retirement savings plan. Our time-off benefits are designed to support work-life balance, including generous vacation, sick and personal leave, as well as 10 paid holidays annually.

Deadline to Apply :

Monday, December 1, 2025, by 4 : 00pm CST.

How to Submit Your Application

To apply, please submit the following materials through our online application portal :

Upload a PDF that includes live links to online samples (e.g., campaigns, articles, videos). With each link include a short description of your role, objectives and outcomes.

Our Values

United Way values are the beliefs and guiding principles that provide our organization with purpose and direction. They define and guide culture, shaping our organization's identity to achieve our mission.

EEO / AAP Policy Statement

At United Way of Dane County, we not only accept difference - we celebrate, support and thrive on it for the benefit of our employees and community. United Way of Dane County is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer. We center community in what we do and strongly encourage ALL people to apply to join us in our work at United Way of Dane County- regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, justice involvement, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Salary Description

$61,400- $66,400