Associate Director, Communications

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Associate Director of Communications
Regular Full‑Time 247 West 37th Street, New York, NY, US

Salary: $85,000.00 Annually

Associate Director of Communications
As the Associate Director of Communications , you’ll lead JASA’s communications strategy, elevate the organization’s brand, and oversee agency‑wide messaging that highlights the impact of JASA’s programs and services. Reporting to the Chief External Relations Officer, you’ll collaborate with executive leadership, program teams, trustees, and external partners to develop innovative communications initiatives, manage media relations, supervise a talented communications team, and strengthen JASA’s visibility throughout New York City.

Shift Schedule:
Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Why You’ll Love Working at JASA
JASA is one of New York City’s largest and most respected nonprofit organizations serving older adults. Every day, our team helps thousands of New Yorkers age with dignity, independence, and security while making a lasting impact in the communities we serve.

Top Reasons to Join Us
Shape JASA’s Brand & Impact

Lead the organization’s communications strategy and public image

Elevate awareness of programs that improve the lives of older adults across NYC

Tell compelling stories that inspire donors, partners, policymakers, and the community

Strategic Leadership

Partner directly with executive leadership and the Board of Trustees

Supervise and mentor a growing communications team

Influence organization‑wide messaging and communications priorities

Creative & Collaborative Environment

Work alongside program leaders, advocacy teams, PR consultants, and external partners

Lead high‑profile campaigns, publications, and media opportunities

Drive innovative communications initiatives across multiple platforms

About the Role
The Associate Director of Communications is responsible for developing and executing JASA’s comprehensive communications strategy while strengthening the organization’s brand recognition, media presence, and community engagement.

This position oversees communications planning, media relations, content development, digital communications, publications, social media strategy, and special initiatives that advance JASA’s mission.

This role requires working from JASA’s Central Office or in the field at least three days per week , with additional evening and weekend attendance required for events and media opportunities.

What You’ll Be Doing
Communications Strategy & Brand Leadership

Develop and implement JASA’s annual communications strategy

Build communications plans that support fundraising, advocacy, and organizational growth

Increase brand visibility among:

Donors and prospective supporters

Clients and caregivers

Government officials

Community organizations

Corporate partners

Media outlets

General public

Support agency‑wide marketing, branding, and communications initiatives

Assist with projects including:

Website redesign with accessibility focus

Brand redesign and rollout

Marketing campaigns

Organizational messaging

Content Development & Storytelling

Lead the development of JASA’s annual Impact Report

Collaborate with program leadership to identify compelling client stories

Conduct client interviews (virtual and in‑person)

Coordinate photography, metrics, testimonials, and program highlights

Ensure consistent messaging across all communications

Media Relations & Public Visibility

Work closely with JASA’s PR consultants to identify media opportunities

Develop media pitches supporting organizational campaigns

Coordinate interviews and press opportunities

Identify opportunities for JASA leadership and staff to serve as:

Subject matter experts

Conference speakers

Award nominees

Media spokespersons

Support crisis communications and reputation management efforts

Digital Communications & Marketing

Oversee social media strategy across multiple platforms

Expand JASA’s online presence and digital engagement

Explore opportunities to maximize Google Grant resources

Ensure consistent messaging across:

Facebook

LinkedIn

Instagram

Email campaigns

Website

Digital marketing platforms

Leadership & Team Management

Supervise:

Digital Content & Communications Manager

Communications Associate

Review and approve communications materials

Provide coaching and professional development

Ensure staff receive Canva and Emma training

Oversee communications consultants and vendors

Monitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables

Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement

Co‑chair JASA’s Outreach Committee

Build relationships with:

Trustees

Program leadership

Advocacy team

Corporate partners

Community organizations

Government officials

Oversee the Client Ambassador Program

Identify clients for:

Media opportunities

Corporate volunteer events

Donor engagement

Public speaking opportunities

Support fundraising initiatives through strategic communications

Partner with the Advocacy Team to develop newsletters and outreach materials

Create communications highlighting JASA’s impact within elected officials’ districts

Recommend new audiences and engagement opportunities

Additional Responsibilities

Prepare Board Communications Reports

Monitor communications projects from concept through completion

Travel throughout New York City as needed

Attend occasional evening and weekend events

Perform other duties as assigned

What You’ll Need
Education

Bachelor’s degree required

Experience

6–10 years of progressively responsible experience in:

Strategic communications

Marketing

Public relations

Experience working within complex nonprofit organizations is preferred

Experience supervising communications staff and consultants

Proven experience leading organization‑wide communications strategies

Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills

Strong executive communications abilities

Experience working with New York media outlets

Crisis communications and reputation management experience

Excellent interpersonal and relationship‑building skills

Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities

Strong strategic planning and organizational skills

Ability to analyze communications effectiveness

Familiarity with fundraising communications

Positive, collaborative attitude with a sense of humor

Ability to manage confidential information with discretion

Willingness to travel throughout all five boroughs of New York City and Long Island

Ability to work evenings or off‑hours during urgent communications situations

Microsoft Office Suite

Google Workspace

Emma or similar email marketing platform

Facebook

LinkedIn

Instagram

Other social media platforms

Ability to quickly learn new communications technologies

Benefits at a Glance
JASA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well‑being and future.

Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options

Employee Wellness Programs (fitness + mental health support)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Retirement Savings

Pension plan with employer contributions

Generous Time Off

Paid vacation time

Holidays and floating holidays

Paid time off for work‑life balance

Professional Development

Training and continuing education opportunities

Career growth within the organization

Employee Recognition

Employee recognition programs celebrating contributions

EEO Statement
JASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification under federal, state, or local law.

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