Director, Strategic Communications

Job Summary

The Director of Strategic Communications serves as the chief storyteller and brand strategist for the IOP. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role shapes how the Institute is seen by students, the University, media, and audiences nationwide. The Director leads all aspects of communications, media relations, digital engagement, event promotion, content creation, and brand management, while driving high-profile projects and partnerships with leading media and tech organizations. This is a leadership role requiring creativity, strategic thinking, and flawless execution. As the media ecosystem shifts, we're looking for someone who can bring fresh, innovative approaches to telling the IOP's story. The successful candidate will be an exceptional communicator, an innovative manager, and a collaborative partner who can elevate the IOP's profile on campus and far beyond.

Responsibilities

• Partners with IOP leadership to design and implement internal and external communications strategies that expand the IOP's thought leadership, visibility, and impact.
• Leads brand strategy, marketing campaigns, and audience engagement efforts across all program areas.
• Elevates the IOP, its Fellows, and leadership as go-to voices through national op-eds, broadcast hits, and digital platforms.
• Manages all media relations, cultivating relationships with journalists, securing coverage of IOP events and fellows, and responding to press inquiries.
• Oversees the IOP's website, digital platforms, and social media campaigns across Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X.
• Directs the creation of high-quality content (video, audio, written) showcasing the IOP's Speaker Series, Fellows programs, internships, and civic engagement initiatives.
• Oversees communications and strategy for projects such as the Campaign Journalism Conference, the Iowa Project, and the Disinformation Conference, often in partnership with media partners.
• Guides the production of promotional and development materials, including the annual report and Board of Advisors packets.
• Provides counsel on communications strategy, including crisis response, to protect and strengthen the IOP's reputation.
• Oversees event communications in collaboration with production teams, ensuring top-quality video, lighting, and media deliverables.
• Supervises a communications team that includes full-time staff and student employees; mentors students and fosters their engagement with IOP communications efforts.
• Collaborates with the University of Chicago News Office to develop stories and pitches that highlight IOP programming and guests.
• Acts as a strategist or project lead to plan, develop and disseminate information designed to keep the public informed of the organization's programs, accomplishments, or point of view.
• Makes high-level contributions to the media interface, including writing press releases, planning and organizing media coverage for major events, and crafting responses to sensitive or controversial issues.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree.
• Advanced degree.

Experience:

• 8-10 years of related experience.
• Proven success in communications and/or public relations.
• Background in political or non-profit organizations.

Preferred Competencies

• Exceptional time management and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to influence diverse people to meet goals and deadlines, build and manage teams, and work collaboratively with senior leadership, board members, consultants, colleagues, students, and volunteers.
• Expert knowledge of communications technologies and best practices.
• Deep passion for the IOP mission and for engaging the next generation in public life.
• Proven ability to manage media relations and build strong press relationships.
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills; thrives under tight deadlines.
• Creative, solutions-oriented thinker who can translate ideas and programs into compelling storytelling.
• Mastery of digital platforms, social media, and content strategy.
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills; thrives under tight deadlines.
• Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills; proven ability to manage and inspire diverse teams.
• High attention to detail with a commitment to excellence.
• Work with and lead a diverse team.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)
• References Contact Information (3)(required)
• Portfolio of Prior Communications Work, including writing samples or media clips. May be requested during the interview process. (preferred)