Director of External Affairs

Job Description

Job Title: Director of External Affairs

Department: Hybrid

Reports To: Chief Development Officer

Job Type: Full-time/Exempt

SUMMARY

The Director of External Affairs is responsible for leading the organization’s strategic communication, public policy, and stakeholder engagement efforts. This role advances the mission of CIS-AH by shaping public understanding, strengthening community and government partnerships, and supporting organizational growth through advocacy and development initiatives. The Director of External Affairs is responsible for helping implement the vision and goals of Communities In Schools of Appalachian Highlands as articulated by the President & Chief Executive Officer, the Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, and the Board of Directors.

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Reporting to and supporting the Chief Development Officer and the President & Chief Executive Officer, the Director of External Affairs develops and implements strategies to build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, focused on the public, government, media and community partners. Key responsibilities focus on overseeing public relations, managing advocacy efforts, leading public communications, and directing specific fundraising activities to support the organization’s mission. The role demands strong leadership, strategic thinking, and excellent communication skills to enhance the organization's reputation and advance the mission.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Reporting to and directed by the Chief Development Officer, the Director of External Affairs will build, develop, and manage strategic partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders:

• Strategic Communication: Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans that effectively promote the organization’s mission, goals, and policies across internal and external audiences.
• Government & Community Relations: Build, strengthen, and manage relationships with government officials, community leaders, and civic groups to advance policy and advocacy priorities and raise the organization’s visibility.
• Advocacy & Public Policy: Oversee the organization’s advocacy agenda, monitor policy developments, and lead public policy initiatives that support and enhance the organization’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Public Outreach: Plan, coordinate, and participate in public events, community outreach activities, and meetings to represent the organization and strengthen engagement with citizens and key stakeholders.
• Media Relations: Serve as the primary media contact, respond to inquiries, prepare messaging, and cultivate strong relationships with journalists and media outlets to enhance public understanding of the organization’s work.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Convene and engage stakeholders—including community members, partners, and leaders—to gather input, foster collaboration, and ensure community perspectives inform organizational priorities and planning.
• Fundraising & Development: Develop and execute fundraising strategies, cultivate and steward donor relationships, and oversee fundraising campaigns and special events that contribute to organizational sustainability.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES ASSIGNED TO ALL EMPLOYEES

Fund Development

• Assist with fund development. Activities may include, but are not limited to:

• o Participate in donor cultivation and solicitation activities in support of donor development, including by phone, email, or mail.
• o Support fundraising events by attending, assisting as required, and positively representing the organization.

Program Support

• Represent the organization positively in public at all times by acting as a professional representative and ambassador.

• Support the mission and goals of the organization across all programs and departments.

Administration

• Maintain accountability to administrative systems and procedures, including submitting expense reimbursements, invoices, reports, etc. by the deadlines assigned.

Submit content as requested for use in a variety of media outlets and grant applications. Participate actively in staff meetings and Board meetings when requested.

Professional Development

• Attend CIS-AH meetings and trainings as appropriate.

• Find other low-cost opportunities for professional development and training.

Confidentiality

• Understand and adhere to the CIS-AH confidentiality policy and all standards of conduct as described in the CIS-AH Handbook.

The statements contained herein describe the scope of the responsibility and essential functions of this position but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other areas to cover absences or relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload. Other duties may be assigned by the President & Chief Executive Officer and Chief Development Officer.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Superior written and verbal communication skills, enabling clear, professional, and impactful interactions with all stakeholder groups.
• Proven ability to think strategically and develop plans that ensure communication initiatives support the organization’s overall objectives.
• Proven and exceptional understanding of public relations, public affairs, and government functions.
• The ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including the media, government officials, and community leaders.
• Experience in developing and executing public relations, marketing, and communication initiatives.
• Demonstrated ability to build and manage strategic partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Highly organized and efficient.
• Skilled at managing concurrent projects and finding creative solutions to challenges.
• Team player.
• Proficient computer skills, including Google Workspace.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or demonstrated relevant experience required; master’s degree preferred. Must have a valid driver’s license and automobile insurance.

SALARY and BENEFITS

Starting at $65,000 annually - commensurate on experience and education.

The Director of External Affairs is eligible to receive CIS-AH’s full range of benefits as outlined in the Employee Handbook.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

CIS-AH is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Bristol, VA 24201