About the Role
The Strategic Communications Director is responsible for turning strategy into action by translating big ideas, bold priorities, and complex challenges into clear campaigns, aligned messaging, and coordinated execution across the organization. This role sits at the center of communications, development, programs, and advocacy, ensuring all external communications are intentional, aligned, and drive the organization forward.
Responsibilities
- Lead the planning and execution of high-impact campaigns tied to funding, advocacy, and organizational growth.
- Translate strategic priorities into clear plans, timelines, and deliverables.
- Ensure campaigns reach the right audiences with the right message at the right time.
- Serve as the central connector between Communications, Development, Programs, and Advocacy.
- Ensure consistency in messaging across teams and initiatives.
- Build systems that allow teams to move quickly without losing clarity or quality.
- Own the editorial calendar and messaging framework across all channels.
- Ensure all communications reflect CIS’s voice, priorities, and strategic goals.
- Review and guide content to maintain consistency and impact.
- Lead internal communications to ensure staff are informed, aligned, and connected to the organization’s direction.
- Translate strategy into clear, accessible messaging for staff at all levels.
- Create feedback loops between field staff and the communications team.
- Partner with the Chief Brand & Growth Officer to support external visibility and narrative.
- Manage day-to-day coordination with PR partners (ECPR), ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
- Prepare materials, talking points, and follow-up for media and public opportunities.
Requirements
- 7–10+ years of experience in communications, marketing, or campaign management.
- Strong ability to translate strategy into execution.
- Experience leading cross-functional work in complex organizations.
- Excellent project management and prioritization skills.
- Ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining clarity and focus.
- Strong writing and messaging instincts.
Skills
- Campaign strategy
- Project management
- Prioritization
- Writing
- Messaging
Location
- Austin, Texas
Work Type
- In-person
- Flexible Options
- Full-Time
Experience Level
- 7-10+ years
Salary/Compensations
- $75,000.00 per year
Benefits
- Ongoing training, supervision, and career pathways into director-level roles.
- 4+ weeks of holidays, 2 weeks of vacation time, personal days and sick days.
- 100% employer-paid employee medical plan available, plus family subsidies, dental, vision, life, disability insurance, and 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.
About the Company
- Rooted in community for over 40 years, Communities In Schools of Central Texas (CISCT) is a sophisticated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Austin, Texas.
- Communities In Schools (CIS) is a national organization that ensures every student has what they need to realize their full potential in school and beyond.
- At CISCT, our mission is simple: surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.
Equal Opportunity
- Communities In Schools of Central Texas is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
