Director, Communications

Description

About Equal Justice Works

Equal Justice Works mobilizes the next generation of public interest leaders committed to serving communities in need. We believe in creating a legal system that works for everyone, not just those who can afford it. Our fellows are the future of justice, and your work will bring their journeys to life.

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a visionary, high-energy communicator who understands the power of storytelling to move people, shape culture, and drive donor revenue. As our next Director of Communications, you’ll lead the strategy, voice, and visibility of Equal Justice Works as we prepare to lead into our next 40 years of impact.

This is more than a brand job. It’s a moment-defining opportunity to tell the story of justice at a time when the world needs hope.

You have a remarkable opportunity to shine as a visionary strategist while swiftly implementing impactful plans. Whether you’re shaping our organization-wide communications strategy or amplifying our CEO’s message across diverse platforms, your role will be vital. You’ll lead a dynamic and creative team of three, collaborating with an exceptional group of consultants who are experts in digital communications, public relations, and content strategy. Together, we’ll create meaningful connections and drive success!

We’re looking for a builder, a generator of bold ideas, and a culture amplifier who thrives on strategy, action, and purpose. If you bring bold ideas, positive energy, and a passion for the mission, we want to hear from you.

What You’ll Do

You’ll guide the voice of Equal Justice Works and help shape how our mission is communicated. Your work will fall into four main areas:

1. Lead Organizational & CEO Communications

• Develop and execute a communications strategy that supports both the organization and the CEO’s thought leadership
• Manage the CEO’s social media channels and executive visibility opportunities (op-eds, panels, interviews, etc.)
• Ensure alignment between organizational messaging and CEO messaging (these platforms go hand in hand)
• Generate and pitch fresh content ideas that elevate our voice and values in a crowded media landscape
• Lead program development and speaker management for signature events like Scales of Justice and regional events in conjunction with other units and consultants
• Craft and edit talking points, speeches, newsletters, and key messaging for both internal and external audiences

2. Oversee Team, Strategy, and Channels

• Lead a team of three:
  • Marketing & Communications Specialist
  • Digital Marketing & Communications Coordinator
  • Marketing & Communications Manager
• Guide content development, editorial calendars, and digital campaigns
• Own our storytelling strategy across website, social media, email, publications, and more
• Keep our messaging on-brand, mission-aligned, and always forward-looking

3. Collaborate with External Experts

• Lead coordination with our communications consultants to elevate brand and strategy, and on organizational advocacy priorities
• Manage media relations, including pitching stories and building press relationships
• Work with vendors for content creation, website support, video production, and graphic design
• Ensure strategy and execution are aligned across partners, platforms, and campaigns, and manage budget accordingly

4. Champion Culture & Creativity

• Inspire your team and the broader organization with bold ideas, a solutions mindset, and a hopeful voice
• Drive creative problem-solving in how we communicate and connect
• Promote a culture of excellence, collaboration, and positivity in every interaction
• Be a culture builder, helping us move forward, not just manage what’s behind us

Qualifications

What You Bring

We know not everyone will meet every qualification. If this excites you, we want to hear from you.

• 7–10 years of communications experience, with at least 2 years leading teams
• Proven experience in media relations, including pitching stories and building press relationships
• A strong track record of generating fresh, creative communications ideas and turning them into action
• Experience supporting executive or CEO-level communications and/or brand management
• Outstanding writing and editing skills, especially for digital content, speeches, and op-eds
• Experience managing cross-platform communications (social, email, web, earned media)
• Strong project management skills with the ability to effectively balance strategy with execution
• Experience working across different issue areas including at a nonprofit or foundation a plus
• Collaborative, joyful, and proactive approach to team leadership
• Ability to manage external vendors and consultants with clarity and respect
• Belief in the power of communications to change hearts, minds, and outcomes

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Mission-Driven Work: You’ll help build a more just world.
• Collaborative Culture: You’ll work with smart, kind people who genuinely care about the mission and one another.
• Chance to Build: We’re in a season of transformation, and your leadership will shape what comes next.

A Note About Flexibility

This job description reflects the heart of the role but not every detail. We’re looking for someone adaptable, curious, and eager to grow with us as we build something bold.

Learn more here