Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

Organization Overview

The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that actively inspires all Americans to keep our democracy and civic life vibrant, educates the public about the unique role of the Senate in our government, and promotes civil discourse to drive bipartisan solutions for our nation’s challenges.

Position Summary

The Chief Marketing and Communications Officer (CMCO) is responsible for setting and executing the Institute’s integrated marketing, communications, and brand strategy. This role oversees all internal and external communications, marketing, media relations, and promotional efforts to increase awareness, engagement, participation, and revenue across programs, events, and experiences. The CMCO works collaboratively across departments to elevate the Institute’s public profile, strengthen stakeholder engagement, grow attendance and ticket sales, and clearly communicate the Institute’s mission, impact, and unique positioning.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight

• Provide vision, leadership, and strategic direction for all marketing and communications functions.
• Build, lead, and structure a high-performing marketing and communication team.
• Ensure alignment, consistency, and brand integrity across all messaging, channels, and platforms.
• Oversee and manage external agencies, consultants, and contractors in support of strategic objectives.
• Partner with senior leadership and department heads to align institutional priorities and marketing and communication strategies.

Marketing, Communications & Media Strategy

• Develop and execute a comprehensive, integrated marketing and communications strategy across print, digital, social, media relations, public relations, internal communications, and web platforms.
• Align public relations and media outreach to effectively reach priority audiences and advance organizational goals.
• Leverage media, industry, and cultural partnerships—particularly those connected to the Museum’s assets—to amplify reach and impact.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to plan and execute cohesive promotional initiatives.

Execution & Performance Management

• Establish clear marketing objectives and KPIs; track, analyze, and report performance, and optimize strategies based on insights.
• Oversee the development of brand standards, messaging frameworks, and media guides.
• Lead the creation of innovative, multi-channel marketing campaigns and promotional materials that drive engagement and demand.
• Develop and manage the marketing and communications budget, including paid advertising and earned media strategies.
• Create and maintain a comprehensive, evergreen marketing and communications calendar.
• Ensure consistency and clarity in internal communications and organizational messaging.
• Serve as a spokesperson for the Institute, as appropriate, including media interviews and public presentations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the CEO.

Qualification & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience required.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in marketing and communications.
• Familiarity with the U.S. government, public policy, or political landscape strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success in building brand awareness, driving audience growth, and increasing participation or revenue.
• Proven ability to lead teams, develop talent, and collaborate across departments.
• Strong strategic, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and organizational excellence.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Experience establishing and executing media, promotional, and strategic partnerships.
• Expertise in digital platforms, including websites, social media, SEO, online advertising, analytics, and performance metrics.
• Knowledge of creative development processes, including content creation and graphic design.
• Comfortable and effective in public speaking and media-facing roles.
• Proficiency with relevant marketing, communications, and analytics software tools.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a relevant work sample as part of their application. They may include a marketing or communication project, campaign overview, or press release that demonstrates strategic thinking, messaging expertise, and executional excellence.

Pay range in Boston, MA

Exact compensation may vary based on skills and experience.

Base salary

$110,000 - $130,000

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. The Institute does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under Massachusetts or federal law.