Under supervision of the CEO and with the support of a cross functional team, the board of directors, and management team, the director of communications & external affairs (DCEA) implements the organization’s strategic direction for internal and external communications, philanthropy, public affairs, advocacy, government relations, and community engagement. The director implements comprehensive, integrated fundraising and communications strategy consisting of identification, engagement, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of current and prospective donors and funders to sustain and expand financial support and connection to the work of Community Bridges (CB). The director manages communications and development staff to execute the coordination and implementation of Community Bridges’ overall fundraising, relationship management, communications, advocacy, and external affairs activities. The (DCEA) performs additional duties as assigned.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Agency and Department Leadership:

• Under the direction of the CEO, develops and oversees the organization's annual communications and philanthropy plans, establishing strategic priorities that support Community Bridges' mission and organizational goals.
• In partnership with the CEO, leads Community Bridges' public affairs, advocacy, government relations, external communications, and philanthropy efforts, developing and implementing strategies that advance the organization's mission, organizational priorities, and public policy objectives.
• Advises the CEO and executive leadership on communications strategies related to organizational reputation, public policy, legislative initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and emerging issues affecting the agency.
• Coordinates agency-wide messaging to ensure consistency across programs, advocacy efforts, government relations, philanthropy, and public communications.
• Leads and effectively integrates the work of grants, development, and communications staff to achieve communications and fundraising goals.
• Presents monthly progress to the management team, philanthropy committee, and board of directors. Serves on the agency’s management team and when requested provides trainings on development functions such as communications and marketing practices and principles.
• Works collaboratively with the CEO to strengthen relationships with elected officials, government agencies, funding partners, chambers of commerce, nonprofit associations, healthcare organizations, transportation agencies, school districts, and community stakeholders.

Marketing and Communications Management:

• Writes, edits, and produces engaging agency communications, including annual reports, fundraising collateral, press releases, newsletters, and brochures; Works in conjunction with management team and coworkers on the production and distribution of all agency collateral and assets.
• In coordination with the CEO leads public relation efforts and daily communications across the agency, including drafting press releases, media strategy, social media management, and management of press affairs.
• Develops and executes strategic public affairs campaigns that educate policymakers, community leaders, funders, and the public regarding Community Bridges' impact, legislative priorities, and public policy initiatives.
• Drives digital engagement including website, email and social media fundraising strategies by overseeing major changes to the website and maintains engaging image driven design.
• In collaboration with the HR department, manages internal communications with staff to increase engagement, collaboration, and employee satisfaction.
• Develops and implements communication strategies that align with key HR initiatives to support recruitment and retention, which includes developing and maintaining employment value proposition and branding strategy, onboarding, employee recognition, and employee wellness while advising on content, tone, and delivery across multiple communication channels.
• Monitors and assesses the effectiveness of internal communications, using staff feedback and engagement metrics to enhance transparency and improve internal communication practices.

Fund Development & Leadership: