Director of Communications And Public Relations

JOB TITLE: Director of Communications & Public Relations

Supervisor: CEO

Status: Exempt

Salary: Starting at $107,968 Annually

Location: Fulton, MI

Posting Ends: /31/2025  9:00am

Excellent Benefit Package

• Eligible for Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program
• Excellent medical coverage plan supplemented by Employer's HRA for minimal cost sharing by its Team Members
• 100% Employer Paid premiums for dental and vision coverage
• 100% Employer Paid premiums on short term disability, life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment
• Flexible Spending Account for Medical Reimbursement and Dependent Care
• 401K Plan with eligible match with 100% invested in employer contributions
• A generous paid time off program where all employees begin earning accrued paid time off immediately upon hire
• Generous Tuition Reimbursement Program with Educational Release Time
• Thirteen Paid Holidays
• Employee wellness and fitness programs
• Opportunities to participate in NHBP Sponsored activities

NHBP is a self-sustaining Sovereign Nation dedicated to achieving the shared vision of our community. Our mission is to preserve our culture and history, build a healthy community, provide essential services, and secure our financial future through strategic decision-making. We are always seeking outstanding individuals who wish help us fulfill this mission and join us on our journey to protect and promote the cultural, emotional, physical, and financial well-being of our Tribal community for the next Seven Generations.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Communications & Public Relations is a key member of the NHBP Executive Leadership Team responsible for shaping and executing a comprehensive communications strategy that advances the sovereignty, visibility, and reputation of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP). Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Director serves as the Tribe's chief storyteller and spokesperson, ensuring consistent, strategic, and culturally grounded messaging across all platforms.

This role provides vision, leadership, and accountability for the Communications Department while building a high-performing team prepared for future growth through succession planning, mentorship, and professional development. The Director partners closely with Tribal Council, NHBP leadership, and external stakeholders to position NHBP as a respected employer, thought leader, and sovereign nation in Southwest Michigan and beyond.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-channel communications strategy aligned with NHBP's mission, sovereignty, and long-term goals.
2. Provide strategic communications counsel to the CEO, Tribal Council, and senior leadership on key initiatives, public positioning, and emerging opportunities.
3. Lead, mentor, and develop a Communications team with clear pathways for growth, succession planning, and cross-training.
4. Serve as executive editor for all NHBP publications and platforms, including Turtle Press, website, social media, digital assets, and press releases.
5. Oversee the creation and enforcement of communication standards, including brand integrity, cultural accuracy, and design consistency.
6. Build systems and processes that strengthen accountability, prioritize requests, and improve workflow efficiency.
7. Foster a proactive approach to communications by anticipating needs, identifying opportunities, and making recommendations to leadership.
8. Represent NHBP as the primary Public Relations contact, managing media relationships, press outreach, and crisis communications.
9. Partner with external stakeholders, including FireKeepers Casino Hotel, Waséyabek Development Company, and other Tribal entities, to strengthen NHBP's reputation and influence.
10. Develop and manage the departmental budget, ensuring resources are aligned with strategic priorities.
11. Serve as NHBP's Public Information Officer (PIO) when required.
12. Other duties as assigned in support of Tribal priorities.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

1. Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field OR equivalent combination of education and senior-level experience.
2. Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in communications, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
3. Demonstrated success developing and executing strategic communications plans for complex organizations (government, corporate, nonprofit, or Tribal).
4. Proven track record of team leadership, mentorship, and succession planning.
5. Exceptional writing, editing, and public speaking skills with the ability to translate complex issues into clear, compelling narratives.
6. Strong knowledge of modern communications platforms, digital engagement strategies, and analytics-driven decision-making.
7. Experience managing budgets, external vendors, and cross-functional projects.
8. Ability to establish strong relationships with executive leadership, governing bodies, staff, and external partners.
9. Cultural competency and commitment to honoring and elevating Native voices, sovereignty, and traditions.
10. Must maintain a valid driver's license and successfully pass background and drug screening; GSA certifiable.
11. Ability to work days, night, weekends, and holidays as needed.
12. Must be able to travel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Experience in Tribal Government, public sector communications, or working directly with Tribal communities.

2. Familiarity with Potawatomi or other Native cultures, traditions, and storytelling approaches.

SECURITY SENSITIVE

This position may contain information that is security-sensitive and thereby subject to additional provisions.

INDIAN PREFERENCE

Indian preference will be applied in the selection of qualified applicants in accordance with the NHBP Indian Preference in Employment Code, which affords employment preference to NHBP citizens, spouses/parents of NHBP citizens, and citizens of other Federally and Tribally recognized Indian tribes.