Manager, Communications

Manager, Communications

Are you a strategic communications leader with a passion for public policy, media relations, and thought leadership? As the Manager, Communications, you will lead the development and execution of integrated communications strategies supporting the Bush Institute’s policy initiatives, driving media visibility, digital engagement, and audience growth. This role is ideal for a results-oriented communications professional experienced in public affairs, nonprofit communications, content strategy, and stakeholder engagement who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. As part of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization advancing freedom, opportunity, accountability, and compassion through policy solutions, leadership development, and civic engagement, you will help amplify impact, strengthen brand positioning, and elevate policy conversations at the national and global level.

Best-in-Class Benefits and Culture:

We value the time and contributions of every employee. Our commitment to your success is enhanced by competitive compensation, depending on experience, and  a best-in-class benefits package including:

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance provided
• Robust retirement planning: 401(k) plan available with employer matching
• Financial security: Life and disability insurance for added protection
• Flexible financial options: Health savings and flexible spending accounts offered
• Well-being and work-life balance: Paid time off, paid holidays

Additionally, we strive to create an optimal environment for our employees, where they can learn, grow, and thrive within the company. We strive to create a collaborative and creative environment where everyone feels encouraged to contribute to our processes, decisions, planning, and culture.

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To succeed as the Manager, Communications, you should have:        

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Policy, Marketing, or related field required; minimum of five years of professional experience in public affairs, nonprofit communications, media relations, or strategic communications 
• Solid written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated experience drafting press releases, op-eds, briefing materials, and digital content; proven ability to translate complex policy issues into compelling messaging for diverse audiences.
• Hands-on media relations experience, including press advance, event media management, journalist pitching, and stakeholder engagement; solid project management skills with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional fluency in English required; willingness to travel up to 15% as needed, maintain regular onsite attendance, and uphold high standards of discretion, accuracy, and strategic execution.

Your responsibilities as the Manager, Communications will include:        

• Lead development and execution of integrated communications plans for designated public policy portfolios, aligning messaging across digital communications, public relations, and nonprofit marketing channels.
• Translate complex policy research into compelling, audience-focused content, including op-eds, feature articles, press releases, blog posts, and social media, ensuring consistent brand voice and editorial excellence.
• Drive proactive media outreach by pitching local, national, and international media outlets, strengthening earned media coverage and thought leadership visibility.
• Build and manage strategic relationships with journalists, policymakers, researchers, and key influencers to expand stakeholder engagement and public affairs impact.
• Oversee social media strategy and multi-platform content distribution, monitor performance metrics, and optimize campaigns to increase audience growth, media impressions, and policy awareness.

About Us

Located on the SMU campus in Dallas, Texas, the George W. Bush Presidential Center is a nonpartisan institution advancing the timeless values of freedom, opportunity, accountability, and compassion. The Bush Center comprises the George W. Bush Presidential Museum and the George W. Bush Institute, a solution-oriented policy organization focused on ensuring opportunities for all, strengthening democracy, and advancing free societies through policy solutions and public engagement. The Bush Center also houses the George W. Bush Presidential Library, operated by the National Archives and Records Administration, which provides access to official documents and artifacts from the George W. Bush Administration. Learn more about the Bush Center at bushcenter.org. 

Lead the Narrative. Elevate the Impact.

If you’re a communications leader ready to drive media relations, public policy messaging, and high-impact digital engagement in a mission-driven nonprofit environment, we invite you to apply. Step into a role where your expertise in public affairs, content strategy, and brand positioning will shape national conversations and expand thought leadership reach.

We are an equal opportunity employer that welcomes and encourages diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.