Senior Communications Officer (CFF)

At College Futures Foundation, we believe there is nothing more transformative for individuals, our economy, and our society than educational opportunity, and that the pathway to a college degree should be clear and open to the diverse students of California.Right now, that is not the case. Not all hardworking young people are getting a fair shot at a better life. The vast majority of our state’s K–12 students are of color and low-income, yet when it comes to graduates from our public universities, they are in the minority. At every step, they face roadblocks. We are working to change that.We partner with organizations and leaders across the state to catalyze systemic change and close equity gaps so that this vision of a seamless, student-centered educational path to opportunity becomes a reality—and one that’s available to every student, regardless of zip code, skin color, or income.We believe that ensuring the college success of students facing the most formidable barriers will help all of us thrive—our families, communities, economy, society, and state.Current Context for CommunicationsAs part of a recent strategic planning process, we are moving forward on our goals with increased emphasis on using the levers of policy influence, partnership, and communications for impact. We will activate the Foundation’s voice and leadership more explicitly and often when we feel it can make a positive difference, and we are excited about the possibilities for greater impact and influence through new communications opportunities.Position SummaryWe are now seeking an experienced Senior Communications Officer to join our growing team. Working closely with, and under the supervision of, the Director of Communications, and with a Communications Associate as part of the team, the Senior Communications Officer will be responsible for a range of institutional, programmatic, and initiative-specific communications.The Senior Communications Officer will work closely with the Director of Communications and other Foundation staff on organization-wide branding and communications as well as cross-cutting campaigns, including staffing the higher-level planning elements of major events and convenings and developing content for the Foundation’s major communications platforms. The officer will also have the opportunity to take the lead on communications efforts specific to various program areas. In that role, the officer will be expected to be the lead advisor and partner for communication campaigns related to specific program initiatives. The key duties of the position include: developing and implementing communications strategies and workplans, editing and drafting written content, managing complex projects, advising grantees and overseeing consultants’ work, staying abreast of research as well as media and thought leader coverage of relevant topics, and acting as an ambassador for the Foundation’s work.Specific responsibilities include:Developing and/or implementing institutional communications strategy and messaging.Developing and implementing communications strategies and messaging in support of initiatives and topic-specific communications campaigns.Drafting or editing a range of communications materials such as talking points, speeches, presentations, fact sheets, reports, briefs, press releases, and website and social media content.Incorporating strategic communications thinking into programmatic planning.Supporting grantees and partners by offering communications counsel and delivering capacity-building assistance.Developing content creation and dissemination strategies for institutional and campaign communications.Managing communications work plans and editorial calendar.Representing College Futures Foundation with the media and at appropriate external events.Developing and managing relationships with journalists and thought leaders.Communications-related grantmaking.Coordinating and managing activities of communications-related consultants and vendors.Special projects and responsibilities as assigned.Preferred qualifications:5+ years of work experience in communications, media, public relations, or related role, particularly within a mission-driven effort and/or policy arena.Highly motivated, creative, and strategic thinker with strong interpersonal skills.Exceptional writing, editing, and oral communication skills with experience drafting and implementing strategic communications plans and messaging.A successful track record of leading and/or supporting communications initiatives and campaigns.Experience communicating and working with systems leaders and policymakers in California, engaging media/journalists and thought leaders, and/or partnering with nonprofit organizations.Ability to work collaboratively and independently, as needed.Ability to manage projects with precision, remain organized, and pay close attention to detail while simultaneously attending to the big picture.Uses discretion, sound judgment, and maintains the strictest confidentiality when handling sensitive materials and information.Technical skills in, or the ability to quickly learn, relevant software applications, including those for design, web presence management, and project management, a plus.A strong commitment to equity and opportunity, particularly in the area of education.A sense of humor, flexibility, and the ability to contribute to a collegial, respectful, and supportive work environment.This is a full-time position located in the San Francisco Bay Area, with some travel required.Compensation:This permanent, full-time position offers competitive compensation and excellent health, commuter and retirement benefits. Some travel will be required.To Apply:Please submit application materials—a cover letter, resume, and work sample—via email to media@collegefutures.org. Preferred subject line: “Application: Senior Communications Officer.” No calls, please.

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