Director of Communications and Public Relations

Responsibilities

• Lead Our Communications Strategy: Develop and execute strategic communications initiatives that elevate AHS' brand, support organizational goals and position us as a national leader in animal welfare.
• Be a Trusted Advisor: Partner closely with executive leadership to guide messaging, support thought leadership opportunities and navigate sensitive or high-profile communications.
• Share Our Lifesaving Stories: Oversee media relations, social media and multimedia storytelling, helping bring the incredible stories happening at AHS to life through compelling content, interviews and media opportunities.
• Protect Our Reputation: Lead crisis communications and proactive media strategies, ensuring AHS responds thoughtfully and effectively to emerging issues and opportunities.
• Keep Our Teams Connected: Oversee internal communications that keep employees and volunteers informed, engaged and connected to our mission.
• Collaborate Across Departments: Work alongside Marketing, Development and other leadership teams to align messaging, strengthen fundraising communications and inspire community support.
• Lead with Creativity and Strategy: Guide communications and social media teams, monitor media coverage, evaluate performance and identify new opportunities to expand AHS' reach and impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications or Marketing with a PR concentration.
• 8+ years of progressive communications/public relations experience, including strategic leadership.
• 5+ years of people leadership experience with a track record of developing high-performing teams.
• Significant experience in media relations, crisis communications and reputation management; established Arizona media relationships strongly preferred.
• Experience advising senior executives on complex, sensitive and high-profile issues.
• Experience across internal, fundraising and mission-driven communications.
• Marketing experience or strong fluency in integrated marketing, brand strategy and audience engagement strongly preferred.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to distill complex information into clear, compelling messages.
• Collaborative leader with executive presence, business acumen and the ability to build trust and influence across diverse audiences.
• Excellent judgment, adaptability and ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Generous PTO program
• Up to 8 paid holidays per year
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Medical, Dental and Vision Plans
• Got student loans? Employment with AHS may qualify you for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program!
• Discounts on veterinary services and other pet perks!