Job Description

Director of Communications

Arlington, VA (Hybrid: 3 Days Onsite) | Full-Time | $120,000–$130,000/year

A national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving mental health outcomes across the United States is seeking an experienced and mission-driven Director of Communications to lead and execute integrated strategies that elevate awareness, advocacy, and engagement.

This role is ideal for a communications leader with deep expertise in strategic storytelling, media relations, and stakeholder engagement who thrives in a collaborative, purpose-driven environment.

Position Overview

The Director of Communications works closely with senior leadership to shape and deliver cohesive messaging across media, internal communications, and digital channels. This role oversees a dynamic team responsible for media relations, publications, field and internal communications, and brand storytelling across the organization’s national platforms.

The Director will serve as both strategist and storyteller — helping to drive awareness, engagement, and trust among stakeholders while advancing the organization’s long-term strategic plan .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive communications strategies to strengthen the organization’s brand and expand its reach.
  

• Lead external and internal communications to position the organization as a national leader in mental health advocacy.
  

• Manage and mentor a small communications team, fostering creativity, collaboration, and accountability.
  

• Oversee key functions including media relations , content development , publications , town halls , webinars , and field communications .
  

• Shape and execute campaigns that promote the organization’s programs, policy priorities, and public awareness initiatives.
  

• Collaborate with marketing and development teams to leverage ambassadors, influencers, and partnerships for greater visibility and engagement.
  

• Serve as a spokesperson and media contact when appropriate; build relationships with journalists and partner organizations.
  

• Edit and approve thought leadership materials such as blogs, position papers, and social content.
  

• Identify emerging communications trends to strengthen outreach strategies.
  

• Manage budgets, reporting, and performance metrics for communications initiatives.
  

• Support the creation of board and quarterly communications reports.
  

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or related field required.
  

• 10+ years of progressive experience in communications, preferably in the nonprofit or mission-driven sector .
  

• Proven success in developing and executing integrated communications plans tied to measurable outcomes.
  

• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across print and digital platforms.
  

• 5+ years of supervisory experience with demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams.
  

• Experience managing multi-channel campaigns, including digital, print, and broadcast .
  

• Excellent project management and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
  

• Skilled public speaker with strong interpersonal communication skills.
  

• Knowledge of legislative processes , grassroots advocacy , or mental health communications is highly desirable.
  

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite ; familiarity with content management systems and social media platforms.
  

• Willingness to travel up to 10% of the time.
  

• Must pass background check.
  

Benefits

Compensation & Work Environment

• Salary: $120,000–$130,000/year
  

• Location: Hybrid (must be based in or near Arlington, VA)
  

• Schedule: 3 days per week onsite
  

• Employment Type: Full-Time
  

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