Director of Communications

Alliance for Justice (AFJ), national association of 130 organizations dedicated to advancing justice and democracy, and Alliance for Justice Action Campaign (AFJAC), an affiliated advocacy organization, are seeking a new Director of Communications. For forty years, AFJ has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of the courts, fight for a more equitable society on behalf of environmental, consumer, civil and women’s rights, immigrant, and health groups, and fight the racism embedded in our justice system. Alliance for Justice is premised on the belief that all Americans have the right to secure justice in the courts and to have their voices heard when the government makes decisions that affect their lives. AFJ has two primary programs: • Our Justice Program focuses on ensuring that the federal judiciary advances core constitutional values, preserves human rights and unfettered access to the courts, and adheres to the even-handed administration of justice for all; • Our Bolder Advocacy Program works with nonprofits and foundations to help them navigate the rules surrounding 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and PACs so they can be more courageous in their advocacy. AFJAC promotes a national conversation about the importance of the courts through advocacy, research, and mobilizing progressive advocates and voters. We engage voters and the public to fight for judges who will protect the rights of all of us, not just the wealthy and powerful, and hold accountable senators who confirm judges that will roll back the clock on our civil rights and legal protections. We conduct research and arm advocates, elected officials, political leaders, and the media with the tools to elevate the courts in the political system and elections.
Duties and Responsibilities
We are seeking a senior communications professional to develop effective strategies and messaging for AFJ and AFJAC, primarily around the federal judiciary and nonprofits’ right to engage in advocacy. The primary role for the Director of Communications will be to design and execute a strategic communications plan and organizational messaging to advance AFJ/AFJAC and its issues in the public arena, especially in the media and with key decision-makers. The
Director will:
• Supervise communications staff and consultants, and serve as a key member of AFJ/AFJAC’s senior management team;
• Work with program staff to identify and respond to opportunities in the media, legal and political, and nonprofit advocacy landscapes to advance AFJ/AFJAC’s issues and organizational presence through strategic communications;
• Supervise and assist in the development of speeches, op-eds, talking points, digital and web content, blog posts, press releases, and public statements in coordination with the Press Secretary and Web Manager;
• Supervise and assist in the management and effectiveness of social media, digital outreach, podcasts, and video development in coordination with the Communications Manager;
• Work with the Outreach and Justice teams, as well as Coalition partners, to design national strategies to engage stakeholders, public officials, Members of Congress, donors and others in communication, public education, and advocacy campaigns;
• Contribute to increasing AFJ/AFJAC’s racial equity and diversity, equity, and inclusion capacities, coordinating input from a range of staff on communications materials, and shaping how we are communicating these values externally;
• Expand the reach of AFJ/AFJAC’s message and communications projects to a diversity of audiences, including communities of color, youth, and non-legal audiences;
• Develop and maintain annual communications work plans, budgets, and timelines;
• Provide quality control for printed and digital materials, such as brochures, legal research, press releases, Twitter feed, Facebook accounts, and advocacy reports;
• Monitor developments in communications best practices, tools, and technologies that will strengthen AFJ/AFJAC’s communications;
• Support development of fundraising, campaign, and event materials, videos, and digital content.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in journalism, nonprofit communications, public affairs, or related field is required. A background in the law, legal affairs, or nonprofit advocacy is encouraged;
• At least 7-10 years of applicable senior level communications, campaign, or related policy experience. Campaign, political/Hill, outreach, and/or advocacy communications experience preferred;
• Experience building a strategic communications plan that targets multiple stakeholder audiences and leverages traditional, digital, and social media platforms;
• Experience managing a team;
• Strong media networks and relationships;
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, and experience with social media and digital communications;
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing racial justice, working across lines of difference, and with a diversity of stakeholders;
• Excellent problem-solving skills;
• Ability to work well under pressure with tight deadlines and multiple priorities;
• National communications experience a plus;
• A sense of humor.
Compensation
The salary range is $130,000-$150,000 based on experience. AFJ provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, prescription, optional vision, dental, flexible spending account, and life and disability insurance, as well as commuter benefits and retirement programs.
Structure
This is an exempt position that has three direct reports – Press Secretary, Digital Manager, and Web Manager, as well as occasional interns.
Physical Demands
This position requires the ability to travel domestically and work long hours when needed. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Racial Equity
Our employees share our commitment to increasing racial diversity in our movement and organization, integrating justice and equity into the work we do and ensuring an inclusive organizational culture.
Job Location
Washington, DC