Vice President of Strategic Communications

Job Summary

To establish CDI as the leading national voice on constructive dialogue in higher education, the full-time remote Vice President of Strategic Communications will lead the communications strategy, enhance executive visibility, and manage earned media efforts while building a small communications team over time.

Key responsibilities

• Lead CDI's communications strategy and narrative, setting editorial priorities and advising leadership on messaging decisions
• Elevate CDI's executive profile through media placements, op-eds, and public appearances, while collaborating with thought-leadership teams
• Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, drive proactive outreach, and manage crisis communications to protect CDI's reputation

Required qualifications

• 10-12 years of experience in strategic communications or PR with a proven track record in complex environments
• Established relationships with national and higher education media, demonstrating success in securing high-quality placements
• Exceptional judgment in managing organizational reputation and articulating messaging trade-offs
• Strong writing and editing skills, with experience in producing high-quality thought leadership and executive communications
• Experience building and evolving communications functions, including managing teams in startup or scaling organizations