Director of Communications

New Visions seeks a Communications Director to lead the strategic vision, development and execution of a modern, high-impact communications program that advances the organization's mission, visibility, and fundraising goals. The ideal candidate will be an accomplished writer, digital storyteller, and strategist who can distill complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with educators, families, civic leaders, and donors. They will bring both creativity and discipline - building the systems, strategies, and storytelling capacity to amplify New Visions' work across channels.

This is a hands-on leadership role for a collaborative communicator who is fluent in social media and digital engagement, comfortable with emerging technologies, including AI, and eager to connect communications work directly to organizational outcomes.

Essential Job Functions:

Strategy & Leadership

• Manage a team of 2-4 staff members.
• Develop and lead an organization-wide communications strategy that strengthens New Visions' visibility, brand identity, and impact.
• Define key audiences, messages, and goals across platforms and ensure alignment with programmatic and fundraising objectives.
• Establish clear performance metrics and use analytics to guide communications decisions.
• Drive internal clarity and consensus by helping teams express complex work in accessible, human language.
• Manage the Communications team budget and vendor relationships, ensuring resources align with strategic priorities.

Storytelling & Content Creation

• Write and edit compelling content-including op-eds, announcements, reports, and social copy-that brings New Visions' mission and programs to life.
• Translate research and technical materials into engaging, shareable stories for multiple audiences.
• Maintain and update our website to reflect the most recent information.
• Oversee or produce organizational materials such as annual reports, newsletters, and website content.
• Use AI tools and other technologies to enhance content creation and productivity while preserving a strong, authentic voice.

Digital & Social Media

• Lead the organization's social media strategy and presence, tailoring content to platforms (Linked In, Facebook, Tik Tok, etc.) to reach target audiences such as educators, parents, and donors.
• Identify opportunities for collaboration with influencers, partners, and thought leaders to expand reach and engagement.
• Monitor trends in education and social media to ensure relevance and timeliness.
• Develop an overall strategy for increasing traffic to our website and increasing followers and engagements with social media posts.
• Develop an effective SEO/web optimization strategy including key digital metrics and goals.

Collaboration & Media Engagement

• Partner with program and development teams to surface stories of innovation and impact.
• Support leadership with key message frameworks, talking points, and preparation for media interviews and public appearances.
• Manage occasional partnerships with external firms for specific projects such as media training, content production, or campaign support.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred
• 8-10 years of professional experience in communications, public affairs, or related roles, ideally within education, public policy, or a mission-driven organization

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Demonstrated ability to create and implement communications strategies that drive measurable outcomes
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills; proven ability to make complex topics understandable and compelling
• Fluency in digital and social media strategy and analytics
• Comfort with AI and emerging communications tools
• Strong project management and collaboration skills; ability to build consensus and manage competing priorities

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to traverse an office environment to attend meetings and interact with colleagues
• Ability to operate a computer and other relevant technology, such as phones, screens, printers, and tablets
• Ability to carry up to 10 pounds (such as for a laptop and carrying case)

The ideal candidate must be able to complete all physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

Disclaimer:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the employee in this position. These statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in this position.

Pay Range

$130,000 - $170,000 USD

Our offices are currently operating in a hybrid model, with staff expected to work in person several days per week. Additional details will be shared if selected for an interview.

Who We Are

For over three decades, New Visions for Public Schools has played a central role in improving the quality of New York City public schools and removing barriers to the success of low-income students and students of color. We provide educators with the tools,…