Director, Strategic Communications & Media Relations

$176,562 - $236,017/Yr

The Rockefeller Foundation - New York, NY

Full-time - Senior

Hybrid - New York, NY

About the position

The Director of Strategic Communications & Media Relations at The Rockefeller Foundation plays a crucial role in shaping and implementing communication strategies that support the Foundation's partnership, impact, and advocacy goals. This position requires strong leadership skills to manage projects and collaborate with senior leadership, ensuring effective communication both internally and externally. The Director will also serve as a spokesperson for the Foundation and will be responsible for cultivating relationships with media and stakeholders to enhance the Foundation's reputation and outreach.

Responsibilities

• Leads outreach with Program Communications Directors to develop and promote narratives around key moments.
• Designs, implements, and oversees multiple projects and deadlines related to institutional and programmatic priorities.
• Researches and writes briefing materials, press releases, key messages, and talking points in consultation with Program teams.
• Develops and implements strategic media relations plans in collaboration with broader communications strategies.
• Delivers high-profile media interviews and events that advance the Foundation's goals.
• Serves as a spokesperson for the Foundation when required.
• Works closely with senior leadership to manage strategic initiatives that shape institutional reputation.
• Cultivates relationships with journalists and producers across various subject areas.
• Synthesizes complex information to pitch to media and advance advocacy campaigns.
• Organizes press conferences and roundtables in support of key media moments.
• Directs public relations and communications agencies that support the Foundation's efforts.
• Creates and manages a project management system for media relations activities and milestones.
• Serves as a thought partner for internal stakeholders on external amplification strategies.
• Attends conferences and media events to provide on-site support to principals.
• Collaborates with team members to produce daily media clips and track engagement.

Requirements

• Generally expected to have 10 years of experience in a related communications role.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., communications, journalism, public policy, political science, global affairs).
• Experience in advancing public-private partnerships and multi-party collaborations is preferred.
• Experience working in the US federal government is preferred.
• Experience on issues related to U.S. and/or multilateral policies, development finance, and climate change.
• Extremely organized with a track record of managing multiple projects and deadlines.
• Exceptional writing and verbal skills with the ability to synthesize complex information quickly.
• Strong interpersonal skills and attention to detail.
• Extensive experience in collaborative work across teams to produce results aligned with organizational goals.
• Experience advising senior leaders, particularly in an Executive Office context.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and prioritize under multiple deadlines.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working on issues related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Experience in philanthropy and catalytic capital.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule with required in-office days.
• Competitive salary range of $176,562 - $236,017 per year.