Director of Communications

Director of Communications and Advancement

We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join our team as the Director of Communications and Advancement for New England FIRST. This role is instrumental in shaping the program’s communication strategies, driving fundraising initiatives, and fostering partnerships to advance our mission of promoting STEAM education. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, extensive experience in communications and fundraising, and a passion for education and innovation.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications and fundraising strategy aligned with the program’s mission and goals.
• Provide visionary leadership to the communications and fundraising team, setting clear objectives and priorities.
• Collaborate with senior management to integrate communication and fundraising efforts into overall organizational strategy.

• Oversee the development and execution of communication plans to enhance the program’s visibility and impact.
• Lead efforts to articulate and promote the program’s brand identity and messaging across various channels.
• Ensure consistent messaging and branding in all communication materials and outreach activities.

• Drive fundraising efforts to secure financial support from government agencies, corporations, foundations, and individual donors.
• Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors, sponsors, and funding partners.
• Develop and implement strategies to diversify revenue streams and expand the program’s funding base.

• Lead the grant writing process, including researching funding opportunities, preparing grant proposals, and managing grant reporting requirements.
• Collaborate with program staff to develop compelling grant narratives and project budgets that align with funding priorities.

• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with educational institutions, industry partners, government agencies, and community organizations.
• Collaborate with partners to leverage resources, expand program reach, and enhance program impact.

• Provide mentorship and guidance to the communications and fundraising team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate communications and fundraising efforts into program activities and initiatives.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in communications, marketing, nonprofit management, or related field.
• Minimum of 5‑7 years of experience in communications, fundraising, or related roles, with a proven track record of success in nonprofit or educational settings.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate teams towards achieving strategic objectives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, donor cultivation, and grant writing, with a track record of securing major gifts and grants.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement innovative approaches to communication and fundraising.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders.
• Passion for STEAM education and a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field.

Apply by sending your resume and cover letter to mfantom. The subject of your email should be Director of Communications and Advancement.

New England FIRST is a robotics community dedicated to preparing young people for life and the workforce. As we continue to expand FIRST around the New England area, we are looking for a visionary and strategic leader interested in shaping the future of STEAM education and inspiring the next generation of innovators and problem solvers!