[Hiring] Senior Director, Brand & Communications @Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

Role Description

The Senior Director of Brand & Communications is a strategic and creative leader responsible for shaping and stewarding the voice, brand, and narrative of the organization across all internal and external channels, ensuring that every communication advances the organization’s mission, reflects its values, and tells the story of its impact and commitment to justice-centered philanthropy around the globe. This role leads the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy that advances the organization’s mission and business development, strengthens its visibility and credibility, and fosters alignment and engagement among staff, partners, and the broader philanthropic and social impact ecosystem.

Reporting to the Co-Chief Executive Officer, the Director oversees all aspects of brand management, digital and media strategy, Office of the CEO and executive leadership communications, storytelling, and internal communications. This role ensures the organization’s communications reflect its values, highlight its work and impact, elevate its voice and visibility, and connect authentically with diverse philanthropy audiences—including grantees, funders, staff, global collaborators, and the public. The Senior Director understands the power of narrative to drive systems change, promote RPA’s mission, and commitment to equity, community-centered messaging, and has the proven ability to translate complex work into compelling, accessible content.

Accountabilities

• Strategic Communications Strategy and Execution
  • Develop a communications and branding strategy aligned with the organization’s mission and strategic plan.
  • Partner with leadership to ensure clear, cohesive messaging in RPA’s voice across all internal and external platforms.
  • Refine the organization’s voice, brand, and narrative centered on justice and equity.
  • Determine approaches and messages that align with mission and brand to support RPA’s viability and sustainability.
  • Elevate the visibility of RPA’s thought leadership in partnership with Inquiry and Insights.
  • Serve as strategic advisor to the Co-CEOs on messaging and public speaking.
• External Communications and Public Engagement
  • Lead media relations, including proactive press outreach and relationship management with journalists.
  • Oversee the digital strategy and content, including website and social media.
  • Partner with executive leadership and teams to support communication efforts around key initiatives.
  • Maintain enterprise-wide awareness and provide executive counsel for complex communications matters.
  • Develop and oversee processes for tracking initiatives and outreach.
• Internal Communications
  • Design and implement internal communications systems to strengthen employee connection and alignment.
  • Collaborate with core teams for transparent communication during change or strategic planning.
  • Build resources to support staff in communications opportunities and engagements.
• Media, Brand Stewardship, & Visibility
  • Refine and protect the organization’s brand identity and voice.
  • Oversee brand assets and ensure consistency across visual design and messaging.
  • Manage organizational media presence, including pitching and placements.
  • Partner with leaders to develop strategic visibility opportunities for Co-CEOs and executive leadership.
  • Maintain a coherent, values-aligned brand identity.
• Complexity and Problem-solving
  • Act as an organizational authority on planning and overseeing communications activities.
  • Exercise independent judgment in developing solutions aligned with organizational objectives.
  • Maximize RPA’s brand impact and market value through effective brand management.
  • Navigate ambiguity and balance competing priorities to achieve organizational objectives.
• Supervisory Responsibility
  • Direct supervision of communications staff.
  • Management of external vendors, agencies, and consultants.
  • Collaboration with cross-functional leaders on integrated campaigns.
• Travel Requirements
  • Some travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, or related field or equivalent experience required (12+ years).
• Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communications skills.
• Proven senior level experience developing and executing communications strategies in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization.
• Strong understanding of social justice, equity-focused language, and narrative change principles.
• Track record of managing media relationships and brand identity systems.
• Familiarity with philanthropy sector audiences and communications nuances.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package including health coverage.
• Retirement benefits.
• Paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement and access to professional development resources.
• Salary range: $195,000 - $205,000 per year.

Application Process

Applications will be reviewed as received. In order to be considered, all applications must include a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications and your resume. The position will remain open until filled.

Company Description

At Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, our mission is to accelerate philanthropy in pursuit of a just world, by providing deep global expertise to make philanthropy more thoughtful, equitable, and effective.

• We believe that philanthropy can help create a better world.
• We make decisions that center people and communities.
• We believe philanthropy has a responsibility to pursue equity.
• We uphold the highest standards of integrity and trust.
• We are committed to learning and sharing knowledge.

If our mission resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every qualification listed. You may bring valuable perspectives and experiences that aren’t captured here but could contribute meaningfully to our work. We’re excited to learn what you can offer.