📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Managing Director, Communications
🔹 Company: Stand Together
🔹 Location: Arlington, Virginia
🔹 Job Type: Full-time, On-site
🔹 Category: Non-profit Organizations
🔹 Date Posted: April 22, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing strategic communications plans to advance Stand Together's policy and issue priorities
- Leading and professionally developing talent aligned with Stand Together's vision and Principle Based Management
- Managing the reputation team to support communications strategy
- Promoting a culture of high performance and continuous improvement
- Setting clear KPIs and managing recaps and reporting for continuous improvement
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of strategic thinking, leadership, and project management skills to successfully drive communications strategies and manage teams.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Develop and implement integrated strategic communications plans focused on advancing Stand Together's policy and issue priorities and its community’s brand
✅ Lead and professionally develop talent for the long-term that is aligned with Stand Together’s vision and Principle Based Management
✅ Manage the reputation team to support the development and execution of the communications strategy
✅ Promote a culture of high performance and continuous improvement that values learning and a commitment to quality
✅ Develop communication strategies and plans, including objective setting, identifying high value outcomes and prioritization of supporting tactics
✅ Set clear KPIs and manage recaps and reporting, with a focus on continuous improvement
✅ Manage vendor partnerships and budgets effectively
✅ Leverage data and analytics to provide actionable insights to communications strategy development and execution
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high level of responsibility and requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and project management skills.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Experience: 10+ years of experience in a corporate relations or policy communications role in a matrixed environment, managing multiple brands and/or business units
Required Skills:
- 5+ years of supervising experience, with a demonstrated background in cultivating and developing talent
- 5+ years in policy, public relations, and/or Tier 1 media experience
- Direct experience developing and leading policy/issue campaigns
- Ability to identify and create preventative measures and mitigation strategies in anticipation of operational/program issues
- Understanding and consideration of reputational impacts in planning; experience incorporating strategies that protect and build the brand’s reputation with multiple stakeholders
- Demonstrated ability to write content across channels/mediums; adapt voice to channel
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working in a non-profit organization
- Familiarity with the principles of Principle Based Management
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in non-profit communications and a strong understanding of Principle Based Management may have an advantage in this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year (Based on industry standards for a Managing Director role in the non-profit sector in the Arlington, VA area)
Benefits:
- 6% 401(k) match with immediate vesting
- Flexible time off
- Comprehensive health and dental plans
- Wellness and mental health support through Peloton and Talkspace
Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (with flexibility for project needs)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Stand Together operates in the non-profit sector, focusing on philanthropic initiatives to tackle root causes of societal problems
Company Size: Stand Together has 1,001-5,000 employees, providing a mid-sized organization structure with opportunities for growth and collaboration
Founded: Stand Together was founded in 2016, with a mission to help America’s boldest changemakers tackle the root causes of the country’s biggest problems
Company Description:
- Stand Together is a philanthropic community that helps America’s boldest changemakers tackle the root causes of our country’s biggest problems, from education to the economy, broken communities, and toxic division, among dozens of other pressing issues
- The organization provides its partners with access to resources including funding, thought leadership, a network of peers, and a playbook for applying proven principles to transform lives and society
- Stand Together is guided by the principles of Principle Based Management, which empowers employees to be entrepreneurial, innovative, and committed to transformation
Company Specialties:
- Philanthropic initiatives
- Community development
- Policy and issue advocacy
- Strategic communications
Company Website: standtogether.org
ASSUMPTION: Stand Together's focus on Principle Based Management and its commitment to driving innovative solutions make it an attractive employer for candidates seeking a mission-driven, entrepreneurial environment.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is at the senior management level, requiring a high degree of strategic thinking, leadership, and project management skills
Reporting Structure: The Managing Director, Communications will report directly to the Chief Communications Officer and oversee the reputation team
Work Arrangement: This role is on-site, with a flexible work arrangement that allows for remote work as needed
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential for career advancement within the communications department or other departments within Stand Together
- Opportunities to develop and mentor team members, fostering a culture of growth and learning
- Chance to work on high-impact initiatives that drive meaningful change in society
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic, mission-driven organization.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Stand Together's headquarters is located in Arlington, Virginia, with a modern, collaborative work environment
Office Location(s): 4201 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, Virginia 22203, US
Geographic Context:
- Arlington, Virginia is located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, offering a vibrant urban environment with numerous cultural attractions, restaurants, and outdoor activities
- The area is well-connected by public transportation, with easy access to major highways and airports
- Arlington has a diverse and inclusive community, with a strong sense of civic engagement
Work Schedule: The work schedule for this role is typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexibility for project needs
ASSUMPTION: The Arlington, VA location offers a dynamic and engaging work environment, with easy access to the amenities and attractions of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Initial phone or video screen to assess cultural fit and basic qualifications
- In-depth behavioral interview to discuss past experiences and problem-solving skills
- Presentation or case study exercise to evaluate strategic thinking and communication skills
- Final interview with key stakeholders to discuss fit and next steps
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and planning
- Leadership and team management
- Communication skills and adaptability
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Alignment with Stand Together's mission, values, and culture
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Demonstrate your understanding of Stand Together's mission and values in your application materials
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions by reflecting on your past experiences and accomplishments
- Research Stand Together's initiatives and priorities to show your enthusiasm and commitment to the organization's mission
ATS Keywords: Strategic Communications, Policy Communications, Public Relations, Media Experience, Talent Development, Crisis Management, Data Analytics, Reputation Management, Content Creation, Stakeholder Engagement, Project Management, Problem Solving, Continuous Improvement, Team Leadership, Entrepreneurialism, Innovation
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should focus on demonstrating their strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills, as well as their alignment with Stand Together's mission and values.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project)
- Communication and collaboration platforms (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams)
- Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
- Media monitoring and analytics tools (e.g., Mention, Brand24)
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in common communication, project management, and social media tools is expected for this role.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Dignity: Respect for the inherent worth and potential of every individual
- Openness: Encouraging diverse perspectives and fostering an environment of open dialogue
- Bottom-up empowerment: Empowering individuals and communities to drive change and transformation
Work Style:
- Entrepreneurial: Encouraging innovation, risk-taking, and continuous learning
- Collaborative: Fostering a team-oriented environment that values input and ideas from all team members
- Mission-driven: Committed to driving meaningful change and impact in society
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you embody the principles of dignity, openness, and bottom-up empowerment in your work?
- Describe a time when you took an entrepreneurial approach to solving a problem or driving innovation
- How do you foster a collaborative work environment, and how do you ensure that all team members have a voice in decision-making processes?
- How do you stay committed to driving meaningful change and impact in your work, even in the face of challenges or setbacks?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who align with Stand Together's values and work style will be most successful in this role and within the organization.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple brands and business units, requiring strong organizational and project management skills
- Working in a fast-paced, high-profile media environment, with shifting priorities and tight deadlines
- Balancing the need for strategic, long-term planning with the demands of immediate, tactical communications
- Navigating a matrixed environment, with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to manage complex projects, adapt to changing priorities, and navigate a matrixed environment to succeed in this role.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other Managing Director roles, this position places a greater emphasis on strategic communications and policy advocacy, with a focus on driving narrative change and building reputation
- In the non-profit sector, this role is similar to communications leadership positions in advocacy, issue-based, or community-focused organizations
- Career progression in this role could lead to senior leadership positions within Stand Together or other non-profit organizations, or to communications consulting or agency roles
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should consider the unique aspects of this role and how it compares to other communications leadership positions in the non-profit sector.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy to launch a new initiative or campaign
- Managing a crisis communications situation, requiring quick thinking, strategic planning, and effective stakeholder engagement
- Conducting a comprehensive audit of an organization's communications efforts, identifying areas for improvement and developing a roadmap for enhanced impact
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, leadership, and project management skills required for this role.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the communications department, and how this role fits into the broader organization?
- How does Stand Together support the professional development and growth of its employees, particularly in leadership roles?
- Can you provide examples of how Stand Together's values and principles guide decision-making and drive impact in the organization's initiatives?
- How does Stand Together measure the success of its communications efforts, and how does this role contribute to those metrics?
- What are the biggest challenges facing the communications department and the organization as a whole, and how can this role help address them?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should use the interview process to gain a deeper understanding of Stand Together's culture, values, and priorities, as well as the specific challenges and opportunities presented by this role.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the following link: https://jobs.lever.co/standtogether/69497efd-1aae-4732-aa23-ce60ae263a71
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role, demonstrating your understanding of Stand Together's mission and values
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions by reflecting on your past experiences and accomplishments, and be ready to discuss your strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
