Communications and Public Relations Manager

Position Title: Communications and Public Relations Manager

Supervisor: Senior Director of Communications

Who is EMPath?

Economic Mobility Pathways (EMPath) is a 200-year Boston-based nonprofit that transforms lives by partnering with families to move out of poverty and provides other organizations with the tools to do the same. As a leading nonprofit innovator that combines direct services, a global learning network, robust research, and advocacy, we offer a wide range of rewarding career opportunities.

What You'll Be Doing:

EMPath is searching for an experienced Communications and Public Relations Manager to play a key role in implementing EMPath's communications and public relations strategies to advance the organization's mission. Reporting to the Senior Director of Communications, the Manager will help bring EMPath's work to life through compelling storytelling, strong media engagement, a dynamic social media program, and effective digital and print communications. This individual will support the execution of integrated communications plans that elevate EMPath's reputation, engage partners and donors, and promote our programs and services. This is a hands-on, creative role, ideal for a skilled professional who excels at writing, digital and social media storytelling, and media relations—and thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Storytelling & Content Development

• Research, write, and edit compelling content for digital, print, and social platforms—including participant stories, press releases, newsletters and reports.
• Collaborate across EMPath teams to identify and tell stories that highlight EMPath impact and mission.
• Ensure all content reflects EMPath's voice, brand identity, and messaging framework, emphasizing equity and dignity.
• Support the creation of multimedia content (videos, graphics, photo essays) that deepens engagement and brings data and stories to life.

Media Relations

• Support the Senior Director of Communications in executing proactive media strategies through press outreach and relationship-building with journalists.
• Draft press materials, coordinate interviews, and track media coverage.
• Prepare briefing materials for spokes people, and support media interview logistics.
• Respond to media inquiries and support crisis communications as needed.

Social Media & Digital Communications

• Develop and implement social media calendars, campaigns, and engagement strategies that drive awareness and action.
• Assist with day-to-day updates to EMPath's website and social media channels, ensuring content is timely, relevant, and aligned with organizational priorities
• Use analytics to evaluate impact and refine strategy.

Campaigns, Marketing & Events

• Support communications and marketing efforts for program recruitment and promotion, EMPath events, and fundraising initiatives.
• Collaborate with Advancement and Program teams to produce materials such as annual reports, campaign collateral, and event messaging.
• Help ensure a strong communications presence before, during, and after key events through media outreach, live coverage, and post-event storytelling.

Brand & Internal Communications

• Uphold brand integrity by ensuring consistent messaging and visual elements across materials.
• Contribute to internal communications that help staff stay informed and connected.

Project Coordination & Administration

• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and vendor relationships.
• Maintain media lists, photo libraries, analytics dashboards, and content archives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, or related field.

• 4–6 years of professional experience in communications, PR, or media relations—preferably within a nonprofit or mission-driven organization.

• Proven ability to craft compelling narratives and materials that inspire.
• Experience managing media outreach and securing coverage.
• Strong understanding of digital communications, including social media, website management, and analytics.
• Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Collaborative and proactive work style, comfortable working across teams and departments.

Personal Attributes:

• Passionate about social and economic justice, equity, and opportunity.
• Creative, solutions-oriented, and resourceful in fast-paced environments.
• A strong team player who thrives on collaboration and shared success.
• Curious, strategic thinker who brings both empathy and analytical insight to their work.
• Sense of humor.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your interest in the role, and 2–3 writing samples or a portfolio of relevant work. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.

Candidates submitting applications prior to December 15 will receive priority review. Interviews are expected to take place from mid-December to early January, with the position targeted to be filled by the end of January.

WORKING HOURS:

Four-day workweek. Hybrid office environment: 2 days in-office in our Boston Seaport office, 2 days remote.

PAY TRANSPERENCY:

This role is budgeted up to $70,000 annually based on education and experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK CONDITIONS:

Position requires walking, sitting, bending, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs). Must be able to operate standard office equipment and work in a professional office environment. The ability to follow detailed verbal/written instructions are expected.

WHY EMPATH?

• The meaningful work: Disrupting poverty and supporting families on their path to economic mobility.
• Collaborative team culture: Join a passionate and mission-driven staff working together to achieve impactful goals.
• Commitment to learning: Access to professional development, internaltrainings, and tuitionassistance.
• Competitive benefits: Retirement planning, healthcare coverage, and more.

EMPath is committed to recruiting, hiring, and sustaining a diverse workforce. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender expression, sexuality, age, disability, or veteran status, are strongly encouraged to apply.

We are an EEO/AA/ADA/ADEA employer based in Boston, Massachusetts.

All offers of employment at EMPath are contingent upon a clear background check.