Director, Communications

Note: We are actively in the application review phase prior to a staff-wide break from 12/20 to 1/4. Outreach to candidates will take place before and after the break. Thank you for your patience, and we appreciate your interest in joining our team. We look forward to connecting soon!

Acadia Center is seeking a highly motivated, strategic and experienced professional to spearhead the organization’s communications efforts, including media relations, social media and organizational materials. Reporting to the President and working with other executive team members and staff, the Director will ensure a clear and consistent brand in external communications, expand Acadia Center’s visibility and public relations, and manage the workflow between the communications, programs and development teams, ensuring transparency and efficient working processes. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by shaping and executing strategic messaging and communications that elevate our mission, strengthen our profile, and inspire positive change.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish specific communications goals for Acadia Center and develop comprehensive plans and strategies to reach them and measure progress.
• Create a comprehensive communications work plan to meet the communications goals of the organization, incorporating appropriate tactics to disseminate news, have a strong social media presence, promote webinars, speaking engagements for our diverse staff, and do extensive media cultivation.
• Train staff in branding and messaging, equipping them to be effective spokespersons for the organization.
• Build Acadia Center’s profile with the media, cultivating relationships and facilitating media coverage that amplifies our message and initiatives.
• Oversee the development of public-facing materials, such as monthly/quarterly newsletters, donor communications, determining priorities to promote and gather all information.
• Translate policy and advocacy work into persuasive messages; draft press releases, talking points, and op-eds to support advocacy; support coalition messaging.
• Manage websites and social media; produce digital content; track analytics to improve engagement.
• Collaborate with the Development and Programs team to create compelling fundraising communications materials and ensure high-quality donor stewardship.
• Participate as a member of the executive committee, helping to drive the strategic vision of the organization.
• Lead, coach, and support two communications team members to achieve excellence in their work.
• Liaison with industry communications, partner and grass organizations

Reporting

The Director, Communications reports directly to the President and CEO, providing regular updates on operational performance, initiatives, and challenges. The President and CEO will evaluate the performance of this position annually during a dedicated performance evaluation session. This structured reporting ensures clear communication and alignment with the organization's strategic goals and priorities. This position will be responsible for the management of two staff and will serve as primary contact for other external communications contractors. The Director, Communications will be an integral member of key teams, including Executive Committee and Communications, PR and Marketing. Participation in these teams ensures alignment with organizational goals, facilitates cross-departmental collaboration, and supports strategic planning and execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree is required.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in nonprofit marketing, PR and communications.
• Proven track record in building and maintaining press relationships and strengthening brand identity.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills.
• Strong understanding of social media strategy and best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to plan effectively, set goals, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills and a results-driven approach to all tasks.
• Proven ability to manage, mentor, and motivate staff.
• Ability to thrive both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, persuasive in written and verbal formats.
• Strong networking, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Enthusiasm for Acadia Center’s mission and theory of change.
• Familiarity with climate and clean energy issues is desired.

Benefits

The salary band for the Director, Communications role is $88,000 to $101,000 annually. Acadia Center offers competitive compensation aligned with peer nonprofit organizations, with a salary based on experience and skill level. Compensation is based on factors such as education, work experience, field knowledge, and skill set. For exempt salaried employees, benefits include healthcare, dental, retirement, disability, and PTO.