Are you a great communications strategist with a passion for social justice? A smart, political storyteller who can write to deadline, and colleagues call a compelling writer? Do you think more people should know about the work of grassroots activist groups?
North Star Fund is New York’s community foundation supporting grassroots groups leading the movement for equality, economic justice and peace. By inspiring donors to give and awarding grants for grassroots organizing and activism, North Star Fund is building a community of progressive leaders in a movement to achieve lasting social change.
Local social justice stories are woefully underreported by mainstream media. North Star Fund has begun to play a greater role in gathering and framing these stories, and making them heard through our own and external media outlets. Our goal is to be an ever-stronger voice for the deep social change work that our philanthropic organizing and fundraising make possible.
The Communications Director will lead these efforts. The ideal candidate will be an excellent writer for a donor audience and a creative strategist with a proven track record of raising awareness of grassroots-led social change work. This position will report to the Deputy Director of Resources and Strategy, will work closely with the Executive Director, and will help recruit and supervise an associate.
Responsibilities
Lead North Star’s strategic communications vision, positioning and framing;
Develop and deliver timely and strategic communications to build North Star Fund’s visibility through print, social media, online and multimedia platforms;
Continue development of, and manage a dynamic website with compelling stories to attract a diverse audience of progressive people with wealth;
Utilize print and online op-eds, rapid letter responses, and story placement in key outlets to increase North Star Fund’s presence as a leader in New York City grassroots philanthropy;
Supervise communications associate and manage communications consultants and vendors;
Connect our communications plan with development priorities to maximize resources for North Star Fund.
Skills
Deep knowledge and analysis of progressive social justice issues and community organizing;
Outstanding writer a must with the ability to create a compelling narrative arc;
Strong leadership, creativity, and vision for a compelling communications strategy, which supports the diverse development strategies of a fundraising organization;
Good visual design sense, experience working with designers, and ability to maintain brand;
Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite/Cloud, email marketing systems, and website content management.
North Star Fund is firmly committed to affirmative action and strongly encourages people of color, women, LGBTQ, elderly and disabled candidates to apply. We appreciate all applicants, but please be advised that our capacity allows to only respond to those best qualified for the position.
How to apply
Send resume, cover letter, and journalistic or media-related writing sample to North Star Fund, 520 8th Ave. Suite 2203, NY, NY 10018-6656 or email search@northstarfund.org. No calls please. Application close date: Rolling with expectation to fill the position in November.