Director of Communications and Public Affairs

Description

Housing Forward Oklahoma, LLC ("Housing Forward"), a fund of the Tulsa Community Foundation, is dedicated to advancing the preservation and expansion of affordable and workforce housing opportunities in Tulsa. Through non-partisan policy initiatives, robust research, market data, and comprehensive capacity-building efforts, we aim to shape the future of housing in our region. Housing Forward was founded with initial investment from The Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation.

Formed in response to the 2024 Tulsa Housing Strategy-a community-driven framework to address the city's unmet housing demand of 13,000 units over the next decade-Housing Forward is the region's leading resource for housing development. Our focus includes systems transformation, policy alignment, and innovative housing partnerships. Our efforts include collaborating with national consultants to evaluate City housing processes, advocating for revisions to the 2025 Qualified Allocation Plan with the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency, and engaging new developers in the Tulsa area.

Job Purpose

Housing Forward is seeking a dynamic Director of Communications and Public Affairs to lead and manage the organization's communication strategies, public relations, and external engagement efforts. This role will work closely with the Executive Director and other senior leaders to develop and implement communications strategies that elevate Housing Forward's mission and impact. The ideal candidate will possess experience in strategic communication, media relations, public affairs, and advocacy work, with a passion for affordable housing and community development.

Requirements

Key ResponsibilitiesCommunications Strategy :

Lead and manage all communications initiatives for Housing Forward, including media relations, public relations, social media, and internal communications. Develop and execute strategies that promote Housing Forward's mission, initiatives, and impact.Public Affairs Leadership :

Serve as a primary spokesperson for Housing Forward, advocating for affordable housing policies and initiatives with key stakeholders, policymakers, and the public.Media Engagement :

Build and maintain relationships with local and national media outlets to ensure accurate and impactful coverage of Housing Forward's work. Prepare and pitch media stories, draft press releases, and manage press inquiries.Content Development :

Oversee the creation of compelling content for various platforms, including press releases, op-eds, social media posts, newsletters, and website updates. Ensure consistent messaging and brand representation.Advocacy and Public Policy :

Collaborate with policy teams to develop and execute public affairs campaigns aimed at influencing housing policy and public opinion. Engage with policymakers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to advance Housing Forward's policy goals.Stakeholder Relations :

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key external stakeholders, including government officials, community organizations, developers, and other influencers in the affordable housing sector.Brand Management :

Ensure that Housing Forward's brand identity is consistently represented across all communication materials and platforms.Requirements & Qualifications

The Director of Communications and Public Affairs will ideally bring the following experience and qualifications :

Experience in Communications and Public Affairs :

At least seven years of experience in communications, public relations, or public affairs, preferably in the nonprofit, policy, or community development sectors.Media and Public Relations Expertise :

Proven experience in managing media relations, including drafting press materials, cultivating media contacts, and securing media coverage.Advocacy and Policy Experience :

Strong understanding of public policy processes and experience in developing and executing advocacy campaigns.Strategic Thinking : Ability to develop and implement comprehensive communications strategies aligned with organizational goals.Written and Verbal Communication Skills :

Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.Project Management :

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously, while maintaining attention to detail and quality.Relationship Building :

Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, stakeholders, and key partners.Education

A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, political science, or a related field is required. A master's degree is preferred.At least seven years of relevant experience in communications, public affairs, or a related field.Desired Strengths and Abilities

Strategic Leadership :

Ability to align communication initiatives with organizational goals and drive results.Media Savvy :

Strong understanding of current media landscapes, trends, and best practices in digital and traditional communications.Collaboration :

Team-oriented with the ability to work across various departments and stakeholder groups.Problem-Solving :

A proactive mindset with the ability to anticipate and respond to challenges in communications and public affairs.Passion for Affordable Housing :

A strong commitment to advancing affordable housing initiatives and the ability to communicate the importance of these issues effectively.Other Skills and Requirements

Technology Proficiency :

Familiarity with communications and social media tools, media monitoring software, and website management platforms.Analytical Expertise :

Ability to analyze the impact of communication strategies and adjust tactics as needed.Hours and Location

This is not a fully remote position; Housing Forward operates in a hybrid work environment. In-office and hybrid schedules are based on business needs and employee readiness.The role requires residence in or relocation to Tulsa, OK or the surrounding area.Full-time position, requiring 40 hours per week.Typical hours are Monday through Friday, 8 : 00 a.m. to 5 : 00 p.m., with occasional evening or weekend work for events or meetings.About our Benefits

As part of our overall compensation package, we offer work / life flexibility, comprehensive health benefits, paid time off, and a generous retirement contributions designed to support you and your family.

Details :

100% employer paid medical, dental, and long-term disability for full-time employees only. Option to add vision and dependents.401K employee and employer contributions.Paid time off to support you while you are out of the office.Paid holidays so our employees can spend time with those they care about.Employer paid AD&D life insurance, with employee options to add supplemental life insurance.