Executive Vice President, Communications and Strategy

Reports to:

President and CEO

Department:

Executive

Position classification:

Exempt, full time

Compensation range:

$220,000–$260,000 per annum

Work site:

On-site (Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

American Progress comprises two tax-exempt mission-driven organizations—the Center for American Progress and the Center for American Progress Action Fund—and is dedicated to improving the lives of Americans through ideas and action. American Progress is creating an affirmative vision for America—a vision that policymakers, legislators, and thought leaders can use to shape the national debate, build durable political power, and drive lasting change.
The Executive Vice President (EVP) of Communications and Strategy is a core member of the executive leadership team, working closely with the President and CEO to lead and implement a strategic communications agenda that elevates the institution’s work and advances its mission. This position oversees the Communications department, which includes the Events, Press, and Digital Communications teams, and ensures coordinated, high-impact communication across all platforms and audiences.

The EVP will be responsible for guiding CAP’s voice and public presence, aligning messaging with organizational priorities, and supporting narrative change through compelling storytelling, digital engagement, media strategy, and event execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Communications department, including the Events, Press, and Digital Communications teams.
• Develop and execute an integrated communications strategy that enhances CAP’s influence, public profile, and impact across key audiences.
• Advise the President and CEO and senior leadership on messaging, media engagement, reputation management, and crisis communications.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key media, partners, influencers, and stakeholders to amplify CAP’s work.
• Serve as a visible and effective spokesperson for the organization, as needed.
• Oversee editorial quality control and ensure message alignment across products and platforms.
• Support internal communications and contribute to a collaborative, cross-departmental culture.
• Coordinate communications strategies across CAP’s policy teams to elevate content and drive broader engagement.
• Ensure effective planning and execution of major public events and convenings.
• Partner with Development to enhance institutional storytelling, brand positioning, and donor engagement.
• Manage the Communications department’s budget, staff development, and external vendor relationships.
• Identify opportunities for rapid response and thought leadership to shape the public narrative around progressive issues.
• Serve on the Executive Committee and act as a liaison to the board of directors, funders, and external allies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Advanced degree or equivalent combination of education and experience, with at least 10 years in senior communications roles within advocacy, nonprofit, political, or government settings.
• Demonstrated success in leading multidisciplinary communications teams and large-scale strategic campaigns.
• Strong expertise in media relations, digital strategy, public affairs, and events.
• Excellent judgment and ability to manage reputational risk and high-profile messaging.
• Experience serving as a senior adviser or spokesperson.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and project management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage many projects with competing priorities, delegate responsibilities, and collaborate with others as needed to achieve success in all areas.
• Experience tracking and managing budgets for projects and initiatives.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide group of employees, partners, and funders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop strategic, long-term plans and implement them successfully.
• Ability to raise funds for projects and initiatives is a plus.
• Commitment to American Progress’ goals and mission.

American Progress offers a full and competitive benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is not represented by a union and has a salary range of $220,000–$260,000 per annum. Final salary may be above the posted range commensurate with experience.

Apply Now

This announcement will remain posted until the position is filled. No phone calls, please.

Please note that only those individuals whose qualifications match the current needs of this position will be considered applicants and will receive responses from American Progress.

This is not a remote position.

Thank you for your interest in American Progress.

Additional Information

American Progress operates two separate nonprofit organizations to maximize the progressive agenda: the Center for American Progress and the Center for American Progress Action Fund. This job posting refers collectively to the two organizations under the name “American Progress.”

The Center for American Progress is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) tax-exempt research and educational institute. It undertakes research, public education and a limited amount of lobbying.

The Center for American Progress Action Fund is a nonpartisan 501(c)(4) tax-exempt organization dedicated to achieving progress through action. It works to transform progressive ideas into policy through rapid-response communications, legislative action, grassroots organizing, political advocacy, and partnerships with other progressive leaders. The organizations share office space and employees.

American Progress is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Diversity is more than a commitment at American Progress—it is the foundation of what we do. American Progress recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, and all the other characteristics that make us unique.

For more information on the Center for American Progress, please go to www.americanprogress.org.

For more information on the Center for American Progress Action Fund, please go to www.americanprogressaction.org.

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