Communications Lead

READY FOR SCHOOL READY FOR LIFE•Greensboro, NC

1d•$65,000 - $74,750•Hybrid

About The Position

The Communications Lead plays a key role in elevating Ready Ready’s mission by supporting both the strategic and day-to-day execution of the organization’s communications efforts. The ideal candidate serves as the frontline representative and spokesperson for the organization and is equally as comfortable working behind the scenes. They will be a trusted storyteller who can thoughtfully and powerfully share the message of what is being built in Guilford County with children and families at the center. This role works closely with our contracted communications firm to implement cohesive, high-quality messaging across internal and external channels that strengthens Ready Ready’s visibility and engagement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, or a related field; or equivalent experience.
3–5 years of professional experience in communications, preferably in a nonprofit, public sector, or mission-driven organization.
Demonstrated ability to develop and manage content across digital platforms (social media, websites, e-newsletters, etc.).
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences.
Experience with communications tools and platforms (e.g., MailChimp, Canva, WordPress, social media management tools).
Basic understanding of media relations, including drafting press materials and engaging with journalists or outlets.
Ability to analyze communications metrics and translate insights into strategy adjustments.
Strong project management and organizational skills; able to juggle multiple priorities and deadlines.
Collaborative and flexible mindset; comfortable working with both internal teams and external partners/consultants.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Flexibility and the ability to work autonomously as well as take direction as needed.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
Knowledge of the early childhood, education, and/or healthcare systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and comfort with digital collaboration tools (e.g., Teams, Zoom, shared drives).
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and Ready Ready’s mission of improving outcomes for children and families.

Nice To Haves

Experience with photography, videography, or basic video editing.

Responsibilities

Strategy & Collaboration Translate the CEO’s voice into enterprise-wide clarity.
Synthesize vision, strategy, and priorities into language that is clear, compelling, and actionable across audiences.
Serve as a trusted narrative partner to the CEO.
Shape messaging, framing, and positioning for key moments including board engagement, media, partner convenings, and internal milestones.
Act as a frontline spokesperson when required.
Represent the organization with authority and alignment, ensuring message fidelity and tone consistency in high-visibility settings.
Architect and steward the organizational narrative.
Define and evolve the story that connects mission, strategy, impact, and future direction.
Position the organization as a field-shaping thought leader.
Proactively develop perspectives, commentary, and platforms that influence sector dialogue and elevate institutional credibility.
Ensure message coherence across all channels.
Align internal, external, digital, and stakeholder communications to reinforce strategic priorities and brand identity.
Translate complex strategy into accessible language.
Distill nuanced operational, financial, and policy concepts into communications that resonate with diverse audiences.
Prepare leadership for high-stakes moments.
Develop talking points, briefings, and scenario messaging for public appearances, media inquiries, and critical organizational updates.
Monitor external narratives and manage reputation risk.
Anticipate issues, guide response strategy, and protect organizational trust.
Cultivate media and strategic relationships.
Build relationships with journalists, partners, and influencers that expand reach and reinforce authority.
Lead proactive visibility strategy.
Identify opportunities for amplification, partnerships, publications, and platforms that extend influence.
Model calm, credible leadership under pressure.
Serve as a steady communications presence during periods of growth, transition, or crisis.
Content Creation & Platform Management Develop, edit, and distribute clear, consistent messaging across internal and external channels.
Manage and grow Ready Ready’s digital presence, including social media platforms, website content, and e-newsletters (e.g., MailChimp).
Support media relations, including drafting press materials and coordinating media outreach when appropriate.
Create and curate written content such as blog posts, press releases, talking points, and promotional materials.
Ensure brand consistency in all organizational communications and materials.
Monitoring & Engagement Monitor analytics and engagement across digital platforms to inform content strategy and optimize communications.
Provide communications support for events, campaigns, and community engagement activities.
General Document, synthetize, and analyze job-related data to use for learning and improvement, to track progress, and to report to funders and other stakeholders.
Provide regular reports on progress to Ready Ready leadership team and liaise across other partners/consultants.
Perform other duties as assigned by the CEO and/or supervisor.

Benefits

health
dental
vision
group life insurance
a 4% 401(k) contribution
paid parental leave after 12 months
a generous holiday schedule
paid time off
a remote work stipend
a flexible work schedule
A computer, monitor, docking station, keyboard, mouse, webcam, and printer will be provided.
Ready Ready values professional development and offers opportunities for staff to strengthen and further develop their individual skill set.