WBEZ-FM 91.5 is a Chicago-based public radio station producing news, talk, and entertainment programming for listeners in the city and beyond. As a media and nonprofit organization, it provides reporting and cultural content that helps inform and connect its audience.
Director of Communications – Chicago Public Media (Hybrid)
Lead external communications for Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ, Chicago Sun-Times, and other local nonprofit news brands in a hybrid role. Shape media relations, executive messaging, thought leadership, and organizational reputation.
Description
- Lead external communications across Chicago Public Media’s local media portfolio, including WBEZ, the Chicago Sun-Times, chicago.com, and Vocalo
- Create and implement a comprehensive external communications strategy
- Work with Marketing & Communications leaders to maintain a consistent and compelling public narrative
- Develop communications plans for initiatives, partnerships, fundraising campaigns, product launches, and strategic priorities
- Set communications goals, KPIs, and reporting practices to evaluate performance
- Act as the primary contact for media inquiries
- Build relationships with local, national, and industry reporters, editors, producers, and influencers
- Drive proactive media outreach and create coverage opportunities for journalists, editors, and executives
- Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, statements, talking points, FAQs, and related materials
- Track media coverage, amplify key priorities, and respond to emerging issues
- Prepare executive speeches, talking points, opinion articles, award submissions, and messaging
- Pursue speaking engagements, interviews, conferences, awards, and other thought-leadership opportunities
- Prepare executives for interviews and public appearances through message development and media coaching
- Counsel senior leaders through sensitive organizational matters
- Coordinate with the external crisis communications consultant
- Help plan and deliver communications for high-profile or time-sensitive situations
- Advise on sensitive internal communications
- Collaborate with marketing, editorial, development, legal, human resources, and executive leadership teams
- Provide strategic communications advice and represent communications in cross-functional planning
Requirements
- Outstanding writing, editing, and storytelling ability
- Skill in turning complex subjects into clear, engaging communications for varied audiences
- Proven ability to generate earned media coverage
- Established relationships with journalists and media organizations
- Experience designing and delivering communications strategies
- Substantial executive communications experience spanning speechwriting, messaging, media preparation, and thought leadership
- Experience guiding organizations through high-profile or sensitive communications situations
- Sound judgment and discretion
- Ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-moving environment
- Strong collaborative approach
- Ability to establish trusted partnerships across teams and with senior leaders
- Commitment to local journalism, civic engagement, and public service media
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Vacation
- Paid holidays
- Life insurance
- Disability coverage
- Retirement savings
- Commuter benefits plan
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Equal opportunity employment