Director of Communications & Public Affairs

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements a comprehensive communications and public affairs strategy that strengthens IBA's public image, expands organizational reach, and elevates awareness of IBA's impact and mission.
• Manages media relations, proactively pitches stories, coordinates press opportunities, responds to media inquiries, and develops positive relationships with journalists, reporters, and content creators.
• Develops and maintains strategic relationships with elected officials, government agencies, community leaders, corporate partners, coalition members, and other key stakeholders.
• Collaborates with the CEO and leadership team to develop public statements, opinion editorials, testimony, talking points, advocacy materials, and organizational messaging.
• Represents IBA at public meetings, legislative briefings, community forums, stakeholder convenings, and advocacy events.
• Oversees and supports crisis communication efforts to protect and strengthen the organization's reputation and public trust.
• Keeps the Chief Executive Officer and leadership team informed of communications activities, outcomes, emerging issues, opportunities, and recommended action plans.
• Provides oversight and strategic direction for social media, website content, digital communications, and marketing initiatives in collaboration with the Marketing and Content Manager.
• Develops and reviews organizational publications, including newsletters, impact reports, annual reports, program materials, policy documents, and promotional content.
• Ensures messaging and communications accurately reflect IBA's mission, values, programs, and community impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field preferred; Master's degree is a plus.
• Six to eight years of experience in strategic communications, public relations, marketing, public affairs, or a related field, preferably within the nonprofit sector.
• Experience in public affairs, government relations, or advocacy initiatives preferred.
• Demonstrated experience managing media relations and working with print, digital, broadcast, and online media outlets.
• Strong written, verbal, presentation, public speaking, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to develop compelling content and messaging tailored to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing staff, consultants, vendors, and external partners.
• Ability to effectively prioritize, organize, and manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Strong strategic thinking and ability to align communications initiatives with organizational goals and objectives.
• Experience in housing, education, community development, public policy, arts, or related fields preferred.