Director of Communications

Position Title: Director of Communications

Department: Administration

Reports To: CEO

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Date: March 2025

Position Summary: Under the supervision of the CEO, the Director of Communications leads and manages organizational activities related to communications and development. The position also assists with other organizational initiatives, projects, and activities as assigned, and serves as a member of the AS Leadership Team. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for directing and managing Avenue Scholars’ (AS) internal and external communication activities.
• Manages the production of AS’ digital (website and social media) and printed communication materials. Collaborates with external contractors and vendors as needed to produce such materials.
• Collaborates with AS’ executive and senior leadership to develop and execute the organization’s fundraising strategy.
• Collaborates with AS staff as needed to collect information regarding organizational services, outcomes, and finances.
• Collaborates with other AS programs (AS Southwest Iowa and AS Des Moines) on shared communications materials and fundraising activities.
• Serves as a member of the AS Leadership Team.
• Leads and/or supports other organizational initiatives, projects, or activities as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics:

• Ability to plan and perform essential job functions independently, reliably, and with a high degree of professionalism and accountability.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships with donors, community partners, co-workers, and other organizational stakeholders.
• Must display Avenue Scholars’ core values of Integrity, Innovation, Collaboration, Respect, and Hope.
• Ability to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion language and principles during interactions with staff and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of AS operations and outcomes.
• Knowledge of organizational budget.
• Knowledge of potential funding sources at the local, state, and national levels.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or above in Communications, Business, Human Services, or other related field is required.

Experience:

• 5 years of communications and/or fundraising experience is required. Other relevant professional experiences may substitute for this requirement.
• Demonstrated ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences via written and verbal communication.
• Prior working experience with a non-profit organization preferred.

Certification/Licenses:

• No specific licenses or certifications are required.

Work Environment:

• Work takes place in the AS offices, organizational stakeholder work sites, and the community.