Director, Communications

EOE Statement

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Description

At AOTA, we believe excellence occurs when:

• Trust and respect are incorporated into decisions at all levels.
• AOTA invests in its employees.
• Responsibility and accountability for work are fairly assigned.

We believe that:

• Autonomy and empowerment are essential to satisfaction and productivity.
• Creativity and innovation only improve projects and outcomes.
• Diversity and inclusivity are essential to success.

Position Summary

The Director, Communications, leads all aspects of the Association’s internal and external communications including staff, board, member, partner, and public-facing communications, with the express purpose of driving engagement with and awareness of AOTA and the occupational therapy profession.

The Director is accountable for leading the Communications team spanning multiple disciplines including internal/external communications, web, social media, digital content, PR, and media relations. As a key leader in the Marketing & Communications department, the Director provides communications counsel across the organization, manages the enterprise-wide editorial/content calendars, and serves as a strategic partner to internal clients to identify effective strategies and tactics necessary to meet/exceed organizational objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and technical expertise, enabling them to develop and execute impactful omnichannel communications strategies and tactics spanning multiple, diverse audiences.

Work Environment (Remote)

This position is fully remote with hybrid options in the Bethesda, MD Headquarters.

Position Specific Duties

Omnichannel Communications Strategy & Tactics

• Designs and implements impactful omnichannel communications strategies, in close partnership with the Association’s Marketing team.
• Develops actionable tactical communications plans to consistently meet/exceed AOTA’s mission and revenue objectives in alignment with its strategic/operational plans.
• Crafts resonant, channel-specific messages that inspire target audiences to act.
• Oversees AOTA’s flagship web property (aota.org) and additional properties (promoteot.org and otcentennial.org).
• Directs all enterprise social media platforms and develops engagement strategies.
• Develops and optimizes an enterprise-wide content management strategy.
• Leads PR/media relations efforts, building relationships with journalists and securing media opportunities.
• Identifies and tracks omnichannel KPIs to inform and optimize communications strategies.

People Management

• Directs and mentors Communications team members, fostering professional growth and engagement.
• Leads cross-functional teams, ensuring project success within budget and timelines.
• Manages vendor partnerships, ensuring quality and timely deliverables.
• Models AOTA cultural values and promotes an equitable and inclusive workplace.

Position Requirements

Required Education/Experience/Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field; Master’s preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in communications, preferably in associations or non-profits.
• 5+ years of direct people management experience.
• Expertise in media relations, PR, social media strategy, and content management.
• Experience with content management systems (Sitecore, WordPress) and analytics platforms (Google Analytics, HubSpot).
• Strong project management skills with experience leading cross-functional initiatives.
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join AOTA?

AOTA offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of occupational therapy. You will be part of a passionate team dedicated to empowering our members and enhancing the profession through innovative marketing and communication strategies.

Position Details

• Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-Time
• Position: Director, Communications
• Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
• Req Number: COM-24-00002

About the Organization

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is the national professional association established in 1917 to represent the interests and concerns of occupational therapy practitioners and students. AOTA currently has approximately 65,000 members and represents 230,000 practitioners and students across the United States.

AOTA’s major programs and activities focus on assuring the quality of occupational therapy services, improving consumer access to health care, and promoting professional development.

Mission Statement

To advance occupational therapy practice, education, and research through standard setting and advocacy on behalf of its members, the profession, and the public.

Vision 2025

As an inclusive profession, occupational therapy maximizes health, well-being, and quality of life for all people, populations, and communities through effective solutions that facilitate participation in everyday living.

Apply here