Director of Communications

This is a unique opportunity to lead an exciting, fast-paced, high-profile, and multi-platform communications operation that fights for hardworking Americans against the predatory activities of the biggest banks on Wall Street and for getting finance to support the real economy and jobs while reducing inequality and poverty.

Anyone with a credit card, debit card, bank account, loan of any type, or who uses any financial product or service is impacted by Better Markets’ work. Better Markets and its team of subject matter experts are a widely-quoted, highly sought-after financial reform advocacy organization that seeks an experienced communications professional to manage, maintain, cultivate, and expand our substantial communications operations, including print, online, radio, TV, and social media.

Director of Communications Overview

The Director of Communications will develop and implement a creative, proactive, and comprehensive communications strategy across all platforms to engage and inform the public on economic, financial, and financial reform issues. The Director will also be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day and long-term media operations for Better Markets.

The position will be responsible for deepening and broadening Better Markets’ reach to media, policymakers, opinion leaders, the public, and other influencers. Along with supervising and managing a Press Secretary, the Director will manage the daily and long-term media activities as well as rapid response. The Director will report directly to the President and CEO, be part of the senior leadership team, and work closely with all staff.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Proactively identify and respond to breaking and daily news opportunities where Better Markets can shape public discourse, influence regulatory deliberations, and impact policy decisions.
• Lead media outreach efforts by pitching stories across print, TV, radio, and digital platforms, while closely monitoring relevant news in economics, finance, and financial reform.
• Maintain and continually update targeted media distribution lists.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy to elevate Better Markets’ visibility across traditional and digital media, including social media, blogs, websites, and emerging platforms.
• Draft and edit press releases, op-eds, advisories, newsletters, blog posts, and multimedia content, including videos that spotlight the organization’s impact.
• Manage and maintain effective relationships with external vendors, including PR firms, web developers, and social media consultants.
• Collaborate with the Development Director and External Affairs Director to create and update compelling promotional and fundraising materials.
• Ensure the organization’s website is dynamic, engaging, and effectively communicates its mission and work.
• Track communications priorities and results, measuring effectiveness and impact of outreach efforts.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute in-person and virtual events.

Qualifications

• Proven success in a fast-paced communications environment, with demonstrated experience in rapid response, strategic planning, and long-term campaign execution.
• At least 8 years of experience in strategic communications, preferably within advocacy, policy, or public affairs.
• Exceptional writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to make complex topics accessible and engaging. Versatility in writing styles, from press releases and talking points to social media posts and long-form articles.
• Strong attention to detail, with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships.
• Creative thinker with a keen sense for crafting messaging that resonates with media, policymakers, and the public.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines while fostering team collaboration.
• Self-starter with a proactive mindset and a collaborative spirit.
• Tech-savvy with hands-on experience managing websites, social media platforms, and media contact databases.
• Familiarity with financial regulation, banking policy, and/or the Dodd-Frank Act is preferred.
• Experience supporting development or fundraising initiatives is a plus.

Organization Overview

Better Markets is the leading non-profit, non-partisan, and independent organization in Washington, DC fighting for a financial system that supports the real productive economy, jobs, and growth. It was founded in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis to promote the public interest in the financial markets, support the financial reform of Wall Street, and make our financial system work for all Americans again.

We pursue these goals through a variety of advocacy and activities, including throughout the rulemaking process at all the financial regulators, in-depth research reports, litigation in the federal courts, and through all mainstream and social media channels.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range starts at $160,000 and is dependent upon qualifications and experience. We offer an excellent benefits package including no-monthly-contribution health insurance (dental and vision included), short- and long-term disability, a 401(k) plan with a 5% annual employer contribution, tax-deferred flexible spending accounts, vacation and sick leave, family leave, a monthly home office allowance, and commuter benefits.

Location

Better Markets’ office is located in downtown Washington, DC, conveniently close to the Blue, Silver, and Orange line stations at Foggy Bottom and Farragut North. This position is hybrid, offering both in-office and work-from-home opportunities, but this position requires the successful candidate to be based in D.C.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Better Markets is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status, or to other non-work-related factors.

Learn more here