Communications & Engagement Director

Job Posting: Communication & Engagement Director

Position Title: Communication & Engagement Director

Reports To: Executive Director

Position Type: Full-Time

Location: Springfield, MO

About the Organization

The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools (FSPS) is a non-profit organization that champions educational excellence by uniting community resources with public education. Through strategic management of private investment the FSPS empowers educators, removes barriers for students and fosters deep community engagement to enrich the learning experience for every child in Springfield Public Schools.

Position Summary

The Communication & Engagement Director is a dynamic, multifaceted role responsible for shaping the voice, brand, and community presence of the FSPS. This position leads the creation and execution of a comprehensive marketing and communication plan while coordinating high-profile community events and engagement initiatives.

Core Responsibilities

1. Marketing & Strategic Communications

·      Comprehensive Planning: Develop and execute an annual, multi-channel marketing and communication strategy across digital and traditional platforms (website, print, social media, e-newsletters, and media outreach).

·      Brand Awareness & Storytelling: Elevate the Foundation’s brand through consistent storytelling. Author and distribute monthly constituent e-newsletters, quarterly alumni e-newsletters, and annual reports.

·      Collateral Creation: Design and produce compelling digital, print, and promotional materials that reflect the Foundation’s goals, objectives, and visual identity.

·      Digital Media Management: Maintain, update, and optimize the Foundation’s website and social media presence, collaborating across teams to ensure content is fresh and impactful.

2. Event Management & Community Engagement

·      Celebrate SPS Banquet: Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of the Foundation's signature annual banquet, successfully engaging an audience of over 700 attendees.

·      Alumni Connection: Plan and execute dedicated alumni events and engagement strategies. Partner closely with the Development Director to cultivate a strong pipeline of giving among alumni.

·      Lunch & Learn Series: Coordinate a quarterly educational series. Collaborate with staff and administrative coordinators to engage community members, stakeholders, and donors.

·      Ambassador Program: Manage the Ambassador Program, organizing five annual site visits and ongoing connection opportunities. Work with leadership to cultivate informed, passionate advocates for public education.

3. Community Relations & Collaboration

·      Serve as a visible and professional representative of the Foundation at community events and networking functions.

·      Foster collaborative relationships with Foundation staff, board members, school district personnel, and volunteers to meet overarching communication and engagement goals.

Qualifications & Skills

·      Experience: 3–5 years of experience in marketing, public relations, communications, or event management (non-profit or education foundation experience is a plus).

·      Communication Skills: Exceptional written, verbal, and storytelling skills, with proven experience editing newsletters and annual reports.

·      Event Planning Mastery: Demonstrated success managing and supporting events.

·      Technical Savvy: Proficiency in digital communication tools, email marketing software, website content management systems (CMS), and social media platforms. Graphic design skills (e.g., Canva, are highly preferred.

·      Collaboration & Relationship Building: A proven track record of working effectively with diverse stakeholders, including board members, donors, and volunteers.

·      Project Management: Highly organized, detail-oriented self-starter capable of managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

Benefits & Compensation

·      Benefits: Paid health insurance, IRA match, PTO, paid holidays

·      Flexible Hours: Flexible scheduling options and WFH opportunities

·      Salary Range: $45,000-$60,000/year

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume, a cover letter detailing their event and communication experience, a brief digital portfolio or writing sample if available and three professional references to nmurdock@spsmail.org.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.