United States Artists Is Hiring: Communications Director

Communications Director – United States Artists
United States Artists (USA) is seeking an experienced Communications Director to lead the organization’s communications strategy, brand development, storytelling, and public engagement efforts.

Job Title: Communications Director

Location: Hybrid (Anywhere in the United States; Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois)

Reporting directly to the President and CEO, the successful candidate will oversee integrated communications across media, digital platforms, publications, events, and strategic partnerships while strengthening the organization’s national visibility and impact.

This leadership role is ideal for an accomplished communications professional passionate about supporting artists, advancing culture, and building compelling narratives that inspire public engagement.

About United States Artists
United States Artists (USA) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the well-being of artists through unrestricted funding, professional development, research, and advocacy.

Since its establishment in 2005, USA has awarded more than $50 million in direct support to over 1,000 artists across multiple disciplines while developing innovative initiatives that strengthen the creative sector nationwide.

Key Responsibilities
Communications Strategy & Leadership

Lead the development and execution of USA’s integrated communications strategy.

Strengthen and evolve the organization’s brand identity and public presence.

Improve communications systems, workflows, and operational processes.

Expand audience engagement and increase organizational visibility.

Implement emerging communications technologies and best practices.

Lead, mentor, and develop the communications team.

Storytelling & Content Development

Direct editorial and content strategy across all communication channels.

Produce compelling stories highlighting artists, culture, and creative work.

Oversee newsletters, publications, multimedia, digital storytelling, and social media.

Develop speeches, reports, opinion articles, executive communications, and briefing materials.

Support communications for artist talks, exhibitions, events, and public programs.

Translate research and policy initiatives into accessible public narratives.

Media Relations & External Communications

Develop proactive national and regional media strategies.

Build relationships with journalists, editors, producers, and media organizations.

Lead crisis communications planning and implementation.

Coordinate communications agencies, designers, photographers, videographers, and creative partners.

Support fundraising communications, donor engagement, and grant reporting.

Provide strategic communications support to senior leadership.

Minimum Qualifications
Applicants should possess:

8–10 years of progressive experience in communications, journalism, media, public affairs, arts administration, marketing, or a related field.

Outstanding writing, editing, and storytelling skills.

Experience managing integrated communications across multiple platforms.

Demonstrated success leading communications during organizational growth or transformation.

Strong understanding of branding, audience engagement, digital communications, and emerging technologies.

Experience working with media organizations and public relations partners.

Ability to translate complex research and policy issues into engaging public content.

Excellent project management and organizational skills.

Experience supervising staff and managing consultants or external vendors.

Commitment to equity, accessibility, and inclusion.

Preferred Skills
Candidates with experience using the following platforms will have an advantage:

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Asana

Airtable

Dropbox

Content Management Systems (CMS)

The successful candidate should also be willing to travel for meetings, events, and organizational activities as required.

Salary and Benefits

Estimated Monthly Salary: US$7,500 – US$9,167

Employees will receive a competitive benefits package that includes:

Four-day work week (with occasional five-day weeks for special events and board meetings)

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Flexible working arrangements

Paid holidays

12 days annual leave

8 days paid sick leave

Up to two weeks of office closure in December

403(b) retirement contribution with employer match

Telecommunications reimbursement

Work Location
This is a hybrid position headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Applicants may be based anywhere within the United States, provided they are available to begin work by 9:00 AM Eastern Time .

United States Artists is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities without discrimination in accordance with applicable laws.

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