USCS Job Board Announcement

Director of Communications Organization: Georgia Charter Schools Association Job Description: Overview: Georgia Charter Schools Association (GCSA) is a statewide nonprofit organization committed to expanding the charter school movement in Georgia both quantitatively and qualitatively. Position: GCSA is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Communications to develop and direct a multifaceted communications strategy. This includes developing our message; ensuring that message is clearly and consistently conveyed through organizational communications; strengthening the Association’s position within Georgia’s education community; as well as increasing public awareness and positive public perception of the Charter School movement throughout Georgia. Responsibilities: • Develop a multifaceted communications strategy conveying key themes of GCSA. • Participate in strategy conversations aimed at positively projecting our image, mission and objectives. • Increase identification of GCSA as the unified voice of Georgia’s charter school community. • Serve as GCSA’s principal liaison with the news media. • Lead activities associated with major annual events, such as National Charter Schools Week and our Annual Conference. • Create prompt, factual responses to controversies about charter schooling in Georgia. • Write and disseminate press releases, op-ed pieces, newsletters, and feature articles not only about the Association but also of member charter schools throughout the state. • Organize high-impact press events. • Make the Association website a rich, interactive resource for the general public and members. • Develop and manage an annual communications budget. • Assist member charter schools to build effective communications programs that convey the real experiences of charter students, parents, and operators. Qualifications: • 5+ years of communications and public relations experience. • Experience in public policy advocacy, interpretation, or formulation. • Experience contributing to the strategic direction of an organization or company. • Direct experience with education reform policy or charter schools a plus. • Self-motivated with the ability to thrive under pressure and meet multiple deadlines. • Understanding and sensitivity to working with diverse constituencies. • Team-player capable of working independently and with minimal oversight. • Excellent time management and prioritization skills. • Superior writing and editing skills with the ability to translate complex ideas and research into understandable pieces. • Outstanding oral communication and interpersonal skills. • Web management experience preferred. • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience required; advanced degree preferred. Additional Information and Requirements: • Supervisory responsibilities: n/a (sole staff member in this area). • Normal work hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday with some evening and weekend times required. • Must be able to travel (sometimes overnight) within the state by car and to occasional national conferences and meetings.