Strategic Communications Director
Communities In Schools of Central Texas
Marketing & Communications
Texas, USA · Austin, TX, USA
USD 6,250-6,250 / month
Strategic Communications Director
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Location: In-person / Flexible Options /CIST Administrative Office / Austin, Texas
Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports to: Chief Brand & Growth Officer
Supervises: This position may supervise one position
Starting Salary: $6,250.00/month ($75,000.00 per year)
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About Communities In Schools
Rooted in community for over 40 years, Communities In Schools of Central Texas (CISCT) is a sophisticated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Austin, Texas. Communities In Schools (CIS) is a national organization that ensures every student has what they need to realize their full potential in school and beyond. At CISCT, our mission is simple: surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.
Position Summary
Communities In Schools of Central Texas is building something different. We are not building a traditional communications team. We are building a function that drives growth, influence, and long-term sustainability.
The Strategic Communications Director is the engine behind that work. This role exists to turn strategy into action. You will take big ideas, bold priorities, and complex challenges and translate them into clear campaigns, aligned messaging, and coordinated execution across the organization.
You will sit at the center of communications, development, programs, and advocacy, ensuring that everything we put into the world is intentional, aligned, and moving us forward
What You’ll Do
Campaign Strategy & Execution
Lead the planning and execution of high-impact campaigns tied to funding, advocacy, and organizational growth
Translate strategic priorities into clear plans, timelines, and deliverables
Ensure campaigns reach the right audiences with the right message at the right time
Organizational Alignment
Serve as the central connector between Communications, Development, Programs, and Advocacy
Ensure consistency in messaging across teams and initiatives
Build systems that allow teams to move quickly without losing clarity or quality
Content Systems & Messaging
Own the editorial calendar and messaging framework across all channels
Ensure all communications reflect CIS’s voice, priorities, and strategic goals
Review and guide content to maintain consistency and impact
Internal Communications
Lead internal communications to ensure staff are informed, aligned, and connected to the organization’s direction
Translate strategy into clear, accessible messaging for staff at all levels
Create feedback loops between field staff and the communications team
External Coordination
Partner with the Chief Brand & Growth Officer to support external visibility and narrative
Manage day-to-day coordination with PR partners (ECPR), ensuring alignment with organizational priorities
Prepare materials, talking points, and follow-up for media and public opportunities
What You Bring
7–10+ years of experience in communications, marketing, or campaign management
Strong ability to translate strategy into execution
Experence leading cross-functional work in complex organizations
Excellent project management and prioritization skills
Ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining clarity and focus
Strong writing and messaging instincts
What Makes You Stand Out
You think like a campaign strategist, not just a communicator
You are highly organized and calm in fast-paced environments
You know how to say no, prioritize, and protect what matters most
You understand how communications connects to funding, influence, and growth
Why This Role Matters
This role ensures that CIS does not become reactive or fragmented in how we communicate.
Instead, we show up with clarity, consistency, and purpose in everything we do.
Why Join CIS?
- Mission-driven work – Be part of a team that changes the trajectory of students’ lives.
- Professional growth – Ongoing training, supervision, and career pathways into director-level roles.
- Community impact – Build partnerships that extend beyond the classroom.
- Generous paid time off: 4+ weeks of holidays, 2 weeks of vacation time, personal days and sick days
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: 100% employer-paid employee medical plan available, plus family subsidies, dental, vision, life, disability insurance, and 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
- Community-centered culture focused on impact, growth, and connection
Communities In Schools of Central Texas is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.