Director of Communications

The East-West Center (EWC) promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1960, the Center serves as a resource for information and analysis on critical issues of common concern, bringing people together to exchange views, build expertise, and develop policy options. The Center’s 21-acre Honolulu campus, adjacent to the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, includes conference facilities, three residence halls, and an office building that houses research, program, and administrative activities. The Center also has an office in Washington, D.C., that provides accessibility to US, regional government stakeholders, and program partners with innovative training, analytical and dialogue exchange, and public diplomacy products to meet US policy priorities and expressed needs in the Indo-Pacific region. Our Communications and External Relations (CER) team is seeking an on‑site Director of Communications for a limited, one‑year appointment (with possibility of extension). This position oversees media relations, crisis management, publications and events, and brand campaigns that target a variety of audiences across multiple channels. The incumbent will manage a team and work collaboratively with EWC leadership and program staff to successfully execute and deliver outcomes that support the Center’s mission and sustainability. Major Duties Develop Center‑wide communications plan that includes strategies to advance the Center’s institutional priorities and serves as an editorial and strategic advisor to the executive leadership team. Ensures all communications output remain non‑partisan, reflect independent and innovative thinking, and embrace cross‑disciplinary approaches and high standards of professionalism. Oversee the development and production of printed and online publications including its monthly newsletter, annual report, special events collateral, internal and external electronic newsletters, print and online ads. Provide technical assistance with editing, branding design, fact checking, and proofreading for a variety of content and communications as needed. Maintain and analyze digital metrics such as website traffic, email open rates and social media figures, and report performance to the leadership team in a timely manner. Collaborate with key leadership officials, experts, and staff to understand cross‑departmental quantitative and qualitative goals, and underscore the merits of EWC programs to expand their audiences and improve performance. Develop and maintain a network of organizations and individuals in media and public relations who can strengthen the Center’s communication efforts and enhance both stakeholder and community engagement. Serve as the media contact with local press, media, and agency outlets as necessary to expand coverage and disseminate appropriate information. Serve as advisor to leadership and senior management on crisis communication strategy and messaging during urgent matters as required. Develop and maintain a cross‑departmental communications calendar and coordinate with other programs to develop story coverage plans, including supporting visuals, interviews, and unique story angles. Coordinate interviews with students, alumni, staff, donors, and friends of the East‑West Center in support of print and online content. Uphold best practices and ensure branding consistency across all departments and platforms. Financial Support Complete assigned activities specific to finance and accounting, budgeting, procurement, and reporting to produce accurate and dependable information regarding operational expenses and identify/resolve any financial discrepancies. Investigate variances, identify budget issues, and provide alternative solutions. Ensure fiscal compliance and Center policies and regulations. Personnel Management Provide day‑to‑day leadership to ensure a high‑performance, customer service‑oriented work environment that supports achieving the Center’s mission, objectives, and values. Organize and oversee work schedules of unit staff and manage requests for time off in an appropriate and timely manner. Provide technical assistance and advice to staff; inspect work in progress and upon completion. Establish goals and criteria to be used in performance evaluations for unit staff. Conduct performance evaluations that are timely, constructive, transparent, and unbiased. Provide coaching and guidance for performance improvement and development. Coordinate with HR in executing all recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding tasks. Direct and oversee the training of new staff. Interact effectively and diplomatically in all areas of employee relations, always projecting a professional image while exercising the highest degree of confidentiality. Coordinate with HR in responding to employee concerns or complaints, performance issues, and/or inappropriate behavior. Attend supervisor training(s) as required. This list of major duties is not exhaustive and may be supplemented on an occasional basis in accordance with the requirements of the job. Supervision The incumbent works under general supervision of the President. The position works independently, exercising initiative and draws upon a general understanding of the expected outcomes and the scope of the assignments. The incumbent is expected to work effectively as part of a team and handles problems and deviations as they arise in a timely and appropriate manner. Work is reviewed for technical accuracy, completeness and compliance with established/mandated policies, guidelines, and procedures. The position directly supervises the CER team and will also assist in the general supervision of assigned volunteer staff and student assistants. Required Qualifications Education – A post‑graduate degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related study field from which comparable knowledge and ability can be acquired. Experience – At least 10 years of work experience in developing and managing institutional communications for organizations providing international/intercultural programs that include programs in the field of journalism. Experience should include extensive knowledge of industry best practices for corporations, governments, and non‑profit organizations, as well as an extensive network of and experience working with Hawaii‑based stakeholders including foreign government representatives, state and federal representatives and officials, and local businesses. Experience should also reflect supervisory or management experience with a record of authority to make basic to complex daily decisions, perform operational and strategic planning tasks, manage finances and budgets, and work collaboratively a team/staff, as well as achievements in producing or overseeing production of policy‑relevant publications, e‑newsletters, and charts and graphics; and of serving as media spokesperson. Demonstrated Ability – To plan, organize, prioritize, and coordinate work involving a wide variety of tasks; to take initiative and work independently and cooperatively in following through on assignments; to make arithmetic computations and record figures accurately; to work under the pressure of deadlines and competing demands; to acquire and maintain knowledge of and appropriately apply established or mandated policies, guidelines, and procedures; to establish and maintain accurate hard and electronic files and records; to appropriately handle confidential information; to work effectively and deal pleasantly and helpfully with people of diverse cultural backgrounds; to adapt to changes and exercise initiative and good judgment in dealing with a variety of situations; to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; to convey detailed information clearly and concisely both one on one and to groups; to assume responsibility for whole areas of work and to effectively gather information and materials from a variety of sources to meet requirements. Knowledge – of office practices and procedures; correct English grammar, punctuation, spelling, and word usage; print, web‑based, and social media resources; e‑communications, branding, and market research techniques; and using standard office machines and equipment. Proficiency with Microsoft program tools such as Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel; desktop publishing, graphic design/image editing, and web site development software; and of basic HTML knowledge and skills. In depth knowledge of major Asian, Pacific and U.S. domestic and international policy and major social issues. Physical Requirements – Able to move equipment and supplies up to 30 pounds; Sit, walk or stand for extended periods of time; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, operate standard office equipment, and use a phone; see and read a computer screen and printed matter with or without vision aids; read and understand rules and policies, labels, and instructions; and to hear, speak and understand speech at normal levels and on the telephone. Work Schedule – Able to work a flexible schedule, including routinely working early, evening hours, and occasionally working weekend hours when necessary. Available and able to travel domestically and internationally, as required. Work Environment – The position generally performs tasks within a normal indoor office setting in a controlled climate. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Salary and Benefits of Working at the East‑West Center You will have the opportunity to join an organization that values its employees and provides a supportive work environment. The annual salary for this position starts at $142,655.18 per year with an attractive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement savings with a very generous company match, and paid time off. Competitive Salary and Benefits Career Growth Opportunities Supportive Work Environment How to Apply If you're interested in applying for the role, submit an electronic application at APPLY FOR THIS JOB NOW so that you can be immediately considered. Here are some tips to help you prepare for our job application process: Tailor Your Resume and Write a Compelling Cover Letter – Make sure that your resume is tailored to the specific requirements of the job. Highlight your relevant experience and skills and provide examples of how you have demonstrated leadership in your previous roles. Your cover letter should be tailored to the job and provide a clear and concise summary of your qualifications and experience. Explain why you are interested in the role and how you can contribute to our team. Our initial assessment will be based on the information you submit in your application. Be Prepared for the Interview – If you are invited for an interview, make sure that you are well prepared. Research our company and its role and be prepared to answer questions about your experience and qualifications. Provide Three Professional References – Provide three professional references (with appropriate contact information) in your application. Ensure that your references can attest to your skills, work ethic, and integrity. What these people reveal about you — both in terms of what they do and don’t say — can make a difference in whether you’ll be hired. So, it’s extremely important that you choose wisely when deciding who to use as a reference. The East-West Center adheres to all federal, state, and local civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination in employment and education. The Center does not discriminate in its admissions practices, in its employment practices, or in its educational programs or activities on the basis of age, sex, gender, disability and/or handicap, race (including traits historically associated with race such as hair texture, hair type and protective hairstyles), creed, color, religion, national origin, nationality, ancestry, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, breastfeeding, veteran status, marital status, domestic partnership or civil union status, status as a domestic violence victim, arrest status, or membership in any other class protected by state or federal laws, now or in the future, in any phase of its admissions, financial aid, educational, or in any aspect of its employment practices. #J-18808-Ljbffr