Senior Director of Communication and External Affairs Job at Providence School D
Providence School District, Providence, RI, US, 02912
The Senior Director of Communication and External Affairs is a leadership role responsible for supporting district-wide communications, media relations, and government affairs. This role helps drive a comprehensive strategy to inform, engage, and mobilize students, families, staff, partners, and policymakers, while building trust and strong relationships with local, and state stakeholders.
We serve approximately 22,000 students at 37 elementary, middle, and high schools. Approximately 55% of students come from homes where English is not the primary language spoken. Combined, our students and families speak 55 different languages and hail from 91 countries of origin.
In PPSD, the teachers and leaders set high expectations for academic achievement, provide equal access to differentiated instruction, and endeavor to close the achievement and opportunity gap among historically marginalized subgroups within the schools. PPSD is a great place for those who desire an environment that supports their creativity and ingenuity, and respects their credentials and abilities as a teacher.
REPORTS TO: Chief Communications Officer
**Contingent upon funding**
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public policy, political science, public administration, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
- 5-7 years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, or government relations (experience in an urban school district preferred).
- Proven success in media relations, crisis communication, and message development. Deep understanding of municipal and state government operations.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives.
- Experience managing multiple high-stakes projects in a deadline-driven, fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive communication.
- Proficiency with digital media tools, content management systems, student and family management systems, and analytics platforms.
- Occasional night and weekend availability required to cover events and monthly board meetings.
- Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and graphic design software is preferred.
- Fluency in a second language, both written and verbal, is preferred.
- Relationship-building across diverse communities
- Clear, persuasive communication
- Strong project management and organizational skills
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines
Strategic Communication & Media Relations
- Lead proactive and responsive district communications, including media relations, press inquiries, and crisis communications.
- Develop and execute a comprehensive communications plan covering internal messaging, public branding, digital engagement, and storytelling.
- Oversee press materials, speeches, talking points, op-eds, and presentations for the Superintendent and senior leadership.
- Collaborate with the Chief of Communications on the district's digital communications strategy, including social media, website, newsletters, and multimedia content.
- Draft letters including incident letters for schools in collaboration with the Chief of Communications.
- Serve as a liaison between PPSD and municipal, and state officials, including the Mayor's Office, City Council, Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), and state legislators.
- Track aNd analyze legislative and policy developments that have the potential to impact PPSD.
- Draft advocacy letters to government officials to express support or opposition to proposed legislation.
- Coordinate advocacy strategies to advance district priorities and inform stakeholders.
- Represent district leadership at public meetings, hearings, and stakeholder events.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with families, community-based organizations, business leaders, and advocacy groups.
- Organize and manage events including press conferences and district-wide initiatives in coordination with school and District leaders as well as city and state communications offices.
- Lead outreach campaigns to promote district initiatives and priorities.
- Support principals and school leaders with school-based engagement strategies.
- Ensure all communication is culturally and linguistically responsive to the PPSD community.
- Manage high-priority, cross-departmental initiatives requiring external collaboration.
- Plan and execute special events, public announcements, and campaigns showcasing district progress.
- Document and share success stories highlighting students, staff, and schools.