Managing Director, Public Relations, Earned Media & High-Stakes Communications

Responsibilities

• Lead Regional Earned Media Strategy & Execution (45%)
• Develop and lead 4–5 earned media campaigns annually that advance organization‑wide priorities and messaging, integrating both regional and national pitch opportunities.
• Design and drive regional earned media strategies aligned to earned media campaigns, organizational priorities, and the broader narrative goals of Teach For America.
• Set clear priorities across regions, determining where to invest proactive outreach based on impact, opportunity, and risk.
• Oversee the execution of earned media campaigns across regional markets, ensuring coverage is timely, high‑quality, and strategically aligned.
• Serve as Senior Counsel to Regional & National Teams (30%)
• Serve as a senior strategic partner to both regional teams and national partners, including Growth, Development, and the Reinvention Lab, to develop and execute earned media strategies that advance organizational priorities.
• Lead the development of pitches and story strategies for both local and national outlets, tailoring approaches based on audience, market, and moment.
• Advise national teams on earned media strategy, narrative development, and positioning in support of their goals.
• Surface and assess reputational and external affairs risks, partnering with leaders to navigate sensitive, high‑visibility, or complex media situations.

Requirements

• 8 - 10+ years of related experience in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience executing earned media efforts, including pitching reporters and supporting media interviews
• Experience supporting reactive or high‑stakes communications situations
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline‑driven environment
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional and geographically dispersed teams
• Strong alignment with Teach For America’s mission, values, and commitment to educational excellence for all students

Preferred

• Experience working with regional or local media markets
• Familiarity with the education sector or nonprofit communications
• Experience preparing senior leaders or staff as media spokespeople
• Comfort working behind the scenes to execute communications plans developed by senior leaders
• Work Demands: This is a full‑time role. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required. Limited travel may be expected on an ad hoc basis.