What started as a small group of families gathered around a kitchen table in 1979 has blossomed into the nation's leading voice on mental health. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

Today, we are an alliance of hundreds of local affiliates, state organizations and a national office that work in communities across the United States to raise awareness and provide support and education that was not previously available to those in need. NAMI advocates for all who are affected by mental illness, both the individuals and the people in their lives. We work to address disparities and injustices and to promote dignity and inclusion for all people with mental illness and their families. In addition to being advocates, we educate, we listen, and we lead as evidenced by our public awareness campaigns, the range of programs we provide, and our strong public policy.

We currently have an opening for a Director of Communications. The Director of Communications is responsible for helping to develop and execute effective, integrated communication strategies to enhance NAMI's brand as the foremost advocate for mental health awareness. The Director works with the Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, the Director of Marketing, and other team members in meeting the organization's strategic communications needs. This role oversees the account management-focused internal and external communications teams, including media relations, the magazine, podcast, and field communications. The Director collaborates with stakeholders to advance NAMI's mission, vision, and organizational metrics, while using communication strategies to connect with key audiences and drive interest in NAMI's services and amplify NAMI's name and brand as the trusted voice for promoting mental health awareness.

This full-time position is based in our Arlington, VA offices on a hybrid basis (three times per week in the office).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Help to develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to elevate NAMI's position as the leading voice for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
• Manage external and internal communications to enhance NAMI's reputation and leadership in mental health advocacy.
• Execute strategic communication plans to:
  • Streamline internal communications with other teams and the alliance to ensure field leaders are well-informed.
  • Engage and activate NAMI constituents, utilizing various communication vehicles and forums.
• Drive NAMI's reputation and position as a leading voice for mental health and shape public discourse and reporting on key issues among major national and regional media outlets, other thought leaders, and external stakeholders.
• Help to establish NAMI as the go-to mental health organization.
• Coordinate with Strategic Alliances and Development department to leverage NAMI's ambassador and influencer corps for increased visibility and funding opportunities.
• Collaborate with the Director of Marketing to develop, produce, and maintain materials for the web and social media.
• Edit position papers, CEO Op-Eds, blogs, and content for NAMI publications and social media channels.
• Identify emerging policy and communication trends for campaigns, briefs, and NAMI programs.
• Build and maintain relationships with media relations professionals at partner organizations for joint efforts and events.
• Serve as organizational spokesperson when necessary.
• Create board reports, quarterly reports, and presentations as needed.
• Manage expenses and budget related to assigned projects and deliverables.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field.
• 10 years of communications experience, preferably in a non-profit organization.
• Demonstrated experience in integrated, strategic communications plan development and execution focused on metrics to drive organizational goals.
• Strong story conceptualization, writing, and editing skills, with experience in managing print and digital publications.
• Minimum three years supervisory experience with proven experience building and leading strong, healthy teams.
• Experience managing integrated digital, print, and broadcast media campaigns.
• Ability to define and manage deadlines, handle multiple tasks, and ensure quality communications outcomes.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills, with extensive public speaking experience.
• Ability to work well under pressure and deadlines, and willingness to take on hands-on tasks when needed.
• Good "news sense" with the ability to identify trends/issues and engage the organization in relevant conversations.
• Knowledge of the legislative process and experience communicating with grassroots volunteers and affiliates desirable. Knowledge of the mental health industry also desirable.
• Skilled with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Up to 10% travel may be required.
• Must pass background check.

Your salary is only one component of the total compensation package. NAMI offers a range of standard and unique benefits that are reviewed annually:

• Generous and comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Plans
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, Personal, and Sick Leave
• Paid Parental Leave
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts for health care, dependent care and commuter expenses
• Life Insurance and Disability coverage paid by NAMI
• Flexible Work and Telework programs
• Professional Development Reimbursement program
• A variety of wellness offerings to support team members
• Employee Referral Program
• The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) which provides support for personal and family problems common in contemporary life

NAMI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. NAMI prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, genetic information or any other legally protected group status. We also provide reasonable accommodation for candidates with disability.