Director of Communications

$100,000 - $120,000/Yr

LA's Best - Los Angeles, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Los Angeles, CA

About the position

Join Our Mission to Empower LA's Youth! Become Our Next Director of Communications and Help Shape the Future of LA's BEST! Established 35 years ago, LA's BEST is a safe and engaging afterschool enrichment program for elementary school students in neighborhoods with the highest needs yet fewest resources. Beyond academics, our programming nurtures social and emotional connections with trained and caring adults. LA's BEST prepares and inspires staff to empower children to create lives full of choices and supports working families across Los Angeles. LA's BEST is a unique partnership between the private and public sectors providing afterschool enrichment. Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) operates the program. Advocating for public, government allocations and fundraising from the private sector comprise the nonprofit entity. These branches collaborate to maintain, expand and enhance equitable programming that benefits staff, children and working families living across Los Angeles. At LA's BEST, we believe that diversity fuels innovation, creativity, and success. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where every individual's unique perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences are valued and celebrated. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are dedicated to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We encourage applications from individuals of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, ages, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Join us in our mission to create an environment where everyone feels empowered to thrive and contribute their best work. Your voice matters, and we invite you to bring your authentic self to our team.

Responsibilities

• Collaborating with the Development department and programmatic Directors to design and implement comprehensive marketing and communications strategies.
• Spearheading the creation of key publications such as the annual report, acknowledgement letters, one-sheets, and other promotional materials.
• Crafting engaging and persuasive copy for all external communications across various platforms.
• Writing press releases and pitching stories to traditional and non-traditional media outlets.
• Establishing and implementing a comprehensive social media strategy.
• Conducting thorough editing and proofreading of all communications materials.
• Planning, writing, and monitoring the results of direct-mail and email campaigns.
• Monitoring the reach and effectiveness of communications efforts.
• Providing comprehensive support for events, including developing and scheduling solicitation materials.
• Managing and maintaining LA's BEST's website.
• Compiling and maintaining a media list and fostering relationships with local media personnel.
• Responding to feedback and inquiries from constituents via email and other communication channels.
• Project managing work assigned to consultants or external vendors.
• Participating in regular meetings with the Development department and Program operations leadership.
• Collaborating with other LA's BEST staff on key initiatives or special projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field is required; Master's degree is preferred.
• 5-7 years of progressive work experience in communications or marketing is required.
• 2-4 years of demonstrated experience in a senior communications or marketing role (Manager or above) is required.
• Exceptional writing skills with the ability to craft engaging and persuasive copy.
• Strong understanding of media relations and experience pitching stories.
• Proficiency in social media strategy development and implementation.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Meticulous attention to detail with a keen eye for accuracy and consistency.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to foster relationships.

Nice-to-haves

• Spanish language proficiency is preferred, but not required.
• Proficiency in digital tools and platforms relevant to communications.

Benefits

• Employer paid medical, dental, & vision insurance for employees.
• Life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with an employer match after six months of continuous employment.
• Paid time off.
• Cell phone stipend.