Director of Communications

Director of Communications  

Status:        Full-time, exempt 

Reports to: Executive Director 

 About CAST: 

 The Centers for Applied Science and Technology is a 501(c)3 network of public-partnership schools working with San Antonio area independent school districts. The CAST mission is to reinvent schooling to maximize options for students, while preparing them for the jobs of the future. With six schools across four school districts, our nonprofit is governed by a board representing industry and civic leaders.  

Position Summary: 

 CAST schools is seeking a talented and creative Director of Communications to lead our strategic communication efforts. The ideal candidate will share our vision to transform teaching and learning with the desire to play a pivotal role in shaping and executing communication strategies to enhance our brand visibility, reputation, and engagement with key stakeholders. The Director of Communications will oversee a portfolio that includes compelling narratives, message development, video production, digital and social media, media relations, graphic design, website maintenance, and other forms of communications strategies. This position manages a stellar team: a communications coordinator/storyteller and paid high school interns at each of the 6 campuses. 

 In this role, you will: 

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies aligned with organizational goals and objectives 
• Serve as a spokesperson for the company, representing our brand in in speaking engagements and public events 
• Supervise and assist in successful media relations efforts by pitching CAST Schools’ work, responding rapidly to news that intersects with our schools and our model 
• Build a narrative and messaging campaign for the organization in collaboration with leadership and program directors that centers our pillars, our students, and our stakeholders 
• Monitor and analyze communication metrics and industry trends to continuously optimize strategies and tactics for maximum impact. 
• Develop and maintain relationships with journalists and influencers 
• Foster a network of national, trade, and local reporters 
• Develop and assist in the creation of speeches, op-eds, talking points, digital and web content, blog posts, press releases, recruiting materials, and public statements  
• Develop and assist in the creation of engaging content for various platforms including social media, digital outreach video development, and website content. 
• Edit reports, blog posts, and other materials 
• Develop and manage annual communications work plans, budgets, and timelines 
• Liaison with Communications leads at partner organizations for joint publications 
• Assist colleagues in building their communications skills, including delivering trainings 
• Support and collaborate with development staff on event planning, materials, recruiting and enrollment, digital fundraising strategy, and fundraising-related marketing 
• Other duties as assigned. 

 Minimum Qualifications:  

• 5+ years of experience in communications, journalism, marketing or public relations.  
•  A track record of developing and executing successful communication strategies in mission-driven advocacy and public relations. 
• Strong leadership and management skills, with experience leading and motivating high-performing teams.  
• Proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms, including social media management, email marketing, and website analytics 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.  
• A valid Texas Driver's License with the ability to travel in the service area on a regular basis. 

Ideal candidates will have: 

• A Bachelor's degree in English, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field. 
• A deep commitment to CAST, its mission, and the 4 pillars of its student experience  
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and communicate complex ideas effectively. 
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships at all levels of the organization and with external stakeholders.  
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.  
• Ability to write in a journalistic style that is customary for corporate and external publications.  
• Project management skills a plus. 

Benefits Include: 

• The compensation for this position will be based upon the successful candidate’s education, skills, experience, and potential for contribution. 
• Medical coverage including health, dental and vision. 
• 401(k) Retirement Plan 
• Life Insurance 
• Short and long-term disability insurance. 
• Employee assistance program. 
• Paid time off 
• Paid parental leave.