Director Strategic Communications

Director of Strategic Communications
Do you want to be a part of something innovative, relevant, and intellectually stimulating that has a meaningful impact? Come join our rapidly growing MxD team as we strive to increase U.S. competitiveness in manufacturing.

About MxD
MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) advances economic prosperity and national security by strengthening U.S. manufacturing competitiveness through technology innovation, workforce development, and cybersecurity preparedness. In partnership with the Department of Defense, we convene to solve critical manufacturing challenges by accelerating digital adoption, empowering a skilled workforce, and modernizing supply chains. MxD is also the National Center for Cybersecurity in Manufacturing as designated by DoD. Visit to learn more.

MxD is passionate about its people and committed to creating an environment where everyone is heard and respected. Flexible work arrangements and unlimited PTO programs are just a few of the exceptional benefits MxD provides. MxD embodies a strong startup culture with its creative and collaborative working environment, fostering curiosity and innovation.

Position Overview
The Director of Strategic Communications leads all external MxD communications as well as drives primary messaging for stakeholders, partners and other key audiences. The individual in this role serves as the senior communications strategist for the organization and primary advisor to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team on related needs. The position reports to the Vice President of Government and Strategic Affairs and interfaces frequently with other teams across the organization.

Position Responsibilities

• Develop and execute over-arching strategic communications for MxD across owned, earned, and paid channels
• Manage content development strategy to include website and social media posts, bylined articles, op-eds, videos, and other formats
• Oversee media relations process, including writing, reviewing and editing press releases, evaluating interview requests, preparing spokespeople for interviews
• Direct, develop and support MxD's online presence including website, virtual tour, social media, newsletters and other integrated communication channels
• Drive the identification, evaluation and support of MxD event participation, including support of public speaking opportunities and preparation of materials
• Advise CEO and Senior Leadership Team on crisis communications needs
• Establish and track goals around audience acquisition, impressions, engagement, and other measures of success
• Manage a team of communications professionals and contract support; support and guide team in setting and meeting goals and overall professional development

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications Bachelor's degree in communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or similar discipline required; Master's or other advanced degree preferred
• Minimum 10 years of experience in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or similar field
• Minimum 5 years directly managing a team or related experience
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
• Excellent writing and editing skills
• Experience with website, newsletter and social media management
• Experience with crisis communications and ability to handle sensitive topics with skill and discretion
• Familiarity with graphic design concepts
• Ability to interface at the executive levels of MxD and MxD's government, industry, and academic partners
• Innovation and creativity in support of storytelling, experiential marketing and promotion
• Ability and desire to work in a highly dynamic environment
• Availability to work onsite on at least 2 days a week on as-needed basis to support MxD personnel and for other onsite events
• Ability for some travel

How To Apply
Apply online at by clicking on the link to the position posting and submitting your resume with a cover letter explaining why you would be a great fit for this role and MxD. Tip: Meeting the qualifications is important, but a great cover letter will set you apart

Work with Us

• MxD is a results-oriented, lean, collaborative tech organization and 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We are hard-working, mission-driven, flexible, and work with a sense of urgency. We hire tech-savvy, committed, self-starters who can think outside the box, and have a strong capacity to learn and adapt to the needs of the organization and role, through both skill and grit. All-star employees excel without the help of administrative support, and don't mind rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands dirty (figuratively). Additionally, people who love to solve problems, no matter how big or small, find they are a good fit for MxD.
• Our state-of-the-art facility, located on Goose Island in Chicago (just north of downtown), features a manufacturing floor, several infrastructure testbeds, and a bustling open-office environment. MxD is a collaborative space, hosting many events for our partners and other prestigious organizations, so being able to engage with staff and visitors in a professional, helpful manner is a must.
• MxD is a 10-minute walk from the North and Clybourn Red Line stop, a 20-minute walk from the Division Blue Line stop, and accessible by a variety of other public transit options. MxD partners with ABM transportation to provide a free shuttle from various public transit stops in and around the Downtown Chicago area to MxD. Also, MxD provides free parking for employees.

Flexible Work Policy

• MxD recognizes the importance of providing flexibility for employees to balance work responsibilities with personal obligations and commitments. The specific feasibility of Flexible Work Arrangements is determined by specific roles and supervisors.

Equal Opportunity Employer

• All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, disability status, economic circumstance, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We are unable to sponsor H1B visas currently.

Accommodations Statement

• We recognize that individuals may require different types of accommodations to perform their jobs effectively. We encourage candidates who need accessibility assistance or have specific needs to apply and reach out to us.

Accommodations Include

• Application Process: If you need assistance with the application process due to a disability or other accessibility needs, please contact our People & Culture department at To the extent possible, we are happy to provide alternative formats for our application materials or support you through the process.
• Interview Process: If you require any accommodations for the interview process, such as assistive technology, modified interview formats, or additional time, please let us know in advance. We are committed to ensuring a fair and accessible interview experience.
• Workplace Accommodations: Once employed, employees can request reasonable accommodations to perform their job duties. This may include adjustments to workstations, flexible scheduling, or other modifications. Please contact the People & Culture department to discuss your needs. We strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their best work. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out.

MxD Pay

$129,000 - $144,000 USD