Associate Director, Communications

About the role

The Associate Director of Communications leads JASA's communications strategy, elevates the organization's brand, and oversees agency-wide messaging that highlights the impact of JASA's programs and services. Reporting to the Chief External Relations Officer, this role collaborates with executive leadership, program teams, trustees, and external partners to develop innovative communications initiatives, manage media relations, supervise a talented communications team, and strengthen JASA's visibility throughout New York City.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement JASA's annual communications strategy
• Build communications plans that support fundraising, advocacy, and organizational growth
• Increase brand visibility among: Donors and prospective supporters, Clients and caregivers, Government officials, Community organizations, Corporate partners, Media outlets, General public
• Support agency-wide marketing, branding, and communications initiatives
• Work closely with JASA's PR consultants to identify media opportunities
• Develop media pitches supporting organizational campaigns
• Coordinate interviews and press opportunities
• Identify opportunities for JASA leadership and staff to serve as: Subject matter experts, Conference speakers, Award nominees, Media spokespersons
• Support crisis communications and reputation management efforts
• Oversee social media strategy across multiple platforms
• Expand JASA's online presence and digital engagement
• Explore opportunities to maximize Google Grant resources
• Ensure consistent messaging across: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Email campaigns, Website, Digital marketing platforms
• Supervise: Digital Content & Communications Manager, Communications Associate
• Provide coaching and professional development
• Ensure staff receive Canva and Emma training
• Oversee communications consultants and vendors
• Maintain project timelines, budgets, and deliverables
• Co-chair JASA's Outreach Committee
• Build relationships with: Trustees, Program leadership, Advocacy team, Corporate partners, Community organizations, Government officials
• Oversee the Client Ambassador Program
• Identify clients for: Media opportunities, Corporate volunteer events, Donor engagement, Public speaking opportunities
• Prepare Board Communications Reports
• Monitor communications projects from concept through completion
• Travel throughout New York City as needed
• Attend occasional evening and weekend events
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required
• 6–10 years of progressively responsible experience in: Strategic communications, Marketing, Public relations
• Experience working within complex nonprofit organizations is preferred
• Experience supervising communications staff and consultants
• Proven experience leading organization-wide communications strategies

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills
• Strong executive communications abilities
• Experience working with New York media outlets
• Crisis communications and reputation management experience
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Able to manage multiple projects and competing priorities
• Strong strategic planning and organizational skills
• Ability to analyze communications effectiveness
• Familiarity with fundraising communications
• Positive, collaborative attitude with a sense of humor
• Willingness to travel throughout all five boroughs of New York City and Long Island
• Ability to work evenings or off-hours during urgent communications situations
• Technology Skills: Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Canva, Emma or similar email marketing platform, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Other social media platforms, Adobe Creative Suite preferred

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options, Employee Wellness Programs (fitness + mental health support), Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Retirement Savings: 403(b) retirement plan, Pension plan with employer contributions
• Generous Time Off: Paid vacation time, Holidays and floating holidays, Paid time off for work-life balance
• Professional Development: Training and continuing education opportunities, Career growth within the organization
• Employee Recognition: Employee recognition programs celebrating contributions

EEO Statement

JASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification under federal, state, or local law.