Leadership role
Director of Communications
Directs an organization's communications, including media relations, publications, digital channels and messaging.
Reporting and scope
Usually reports to the Executive Director / CEO, a Chief Marketing / Communications Officer or a VP of Communications. Authority covers external communications and often internal and board communications.
Core responsibilities
- Sets messaging and brand standards for the organization
- Manages media relations, press releases and spokesperson preparation
- Oversees the website, social media, email and the annual report
- Produces donor communications and case materials with development
- Leads crisis and reputation communications with leadership
- Supports advocacy and program campaigns with content and outreach
How it differs
Director of Marketing concentrates on revenue-linked promotion such as ticket sales, enrollment or earned income, while Director of Communications focuses on reputation, media and message. Director of Community Relations works face to face with local stakeholders.
By organization size
In small organizations the role is often a single communicator handling everything from social posts to the annual report. In large ones it leads a team and may combine with marketing under a VP.
Filings from the last five years mapped to this role commonly report titles such as: Director of Communications; Communications Director; Director, Communications; Director of Communication; Communications Dir; Communication Director