Strategic Communications Director

Strategic Communications Director
Location:

In-person / Flexible Options / CIST Administrative Office / Austin, Texas

Employment Type:

Full-Time, Exempt

Reports to:

Chief Brand & Growth Officer

Supervises:

This position may supervise one position

Starting Salary:

$6,250.00/month ($75,000.00 per year)

About Communities In Schools
Rooted in community for over 40 years, Communities In Schools of Central Texas (CISCT) is a sophisticated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Austin, Texas. Communities In Schools (CIS) is a national organization that ensures every student has what they need to realize their full potential in school and beyond. At CISCT, our mission is simple: surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

Position Summary
Communities In Schools of Central Texas is building something different. We are not building a traditional communications team. We are building a function that drives growth, influence, and long‑term sustainability.

The Strategic Communications Director is the engine behind that work. This role exists to turn strategy into action. You will take big ideas, bold priorities, and complex challenges and translate them into clear campaigns, aligned messaging, and coordinated execution across the organization.

You will sit at the center of communications, development, programs, and advocacy, ensuring that everything we put into the world is intentional, aligned, and moving us forward.

What You’ll Do
Campaign Strategy & Execution

Lead the planning and execution of high‑impact campaigns tied to funding, advocacy, and organizational growth

Translate strategic priorities into clear plans, timelines, and deliverables

Ensure campaigns reach the right audiences with the right message at the right time

Organizational Alignment

Serve as the central connector between Communications, Development, Programs, and Advocacy

Ensure consistency in messaging across teams and initiatives

Build systems that allow teams to move quickly without losing clarity or quality

Content Systems & Messaging

Own the editorial calendar and messaging framework across all channels

Ensure all communications reflect CIS’s voice, priorities, and strategic goals

Review and guide content to maintain consistency and impact

Internal Communications

Lead internal communications to ensure staff are informed, aligned, and connected to the organization’s direction

Translate strategy into clear, accessible messaging for staff at all levels

Create feedback loops between field staff and the communications team

External Coordination

Partner with the Chief Brand & Growth Officer to support external visibility and narrative

Manage day‑to‑day coordination with PR partners (ECPR), ensuring alignment with organizational priorities

Prepare materials, talking points, and follow‑up for media and public opportunities

What You Bring

7–10+ years of experience in communications, marketing, or campaign management

Strong ability to translate strategy into execution

Experience leading cross‑functional work in complex organizations

Excellent project management and prioritization skills

Ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining clarity and focus

Strong writing and messaging instincts

What Makes You Stand Out

You think like a campaign strategist, not just a communicator

You are highly organized and calm in fast‑paced environments

You know how to say no, prioritize, and protect what matters most

You understand how communications connects to funding, influence, and growth

Why This Role Matters

This role ensures that CIS does not become reactive or fragmented in how we communicate.

Instead, we show up with clarity, consistency, and purpose in everything we do.

Why Join CIS?

Mission‑driven work

– Be part of a team that changes the trajectory of students’ lives.

Professional growth

– Ongoing training, supervision, and career pathways into director‑level roles.

Community impact

– Build partnerships that extend beyond the classroom.

Generous paid time off

– 4+ weeks of holidays, 2 weeks of vacation time, personal days and sick days

Comprehensive Health Coverage

– 100% employer‑paid employee medical plan available, plus family subsidies, dental, vision, life, disability insurance, and 403(b) retirement plan with employer match

Community‑centered culture

– focused on impact, growth, and connection

Communities In Schools of Central Texas is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

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