Director - Communications

Unitus Community Credit Union•Tigard, OR

About The Position

At Unitus, each employee has an opportunity to make a difference for our members. The Director of Communications oversees Unitus’ enterprise communications and brand voice, ensuring message integrity and alignment across all audiences. This role translates strategic priorities into effective, integrated communications that support organizational change, build trust, and enhance the Credit Union’s reputation. Partnering closely with leaders and teams, the Director guides proactive and crisis communications to strengthen clarity, consistency, and impact. Our strong team of leaders, outstanding culture, above market benefits, continuous involvement in the communities we serve, and competitive pay programs make Unitus an excellent place to contribute and grow your talents.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, English, or closely related field or equivalent in work experience.
Minimum 8 years of work experience in communications, media relations, public relations or a similar role.

Nice To Haves

Management or supervisory experience preferred.
Financial Industry experience preferred.
Public Relations or Communications Accreditation or Certification (or similar) preferred.
Experience with PR tools such as Muck Rack, PR Newswire, Cision, Meltwater preferred.
Bi-lingual English/Spanish Preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead and advance the Credit Union’s enterprise communications function, establishing the strategic vision, priorities, and standards for all internal and external communications. Translate organizational strategy into cohesive communication plans and long‑range roadmaps, while also directly crafting and delivering high‑impact communications.
Drive the Credit Union’s public relations strategy, securing earned media and elevating organizational visibility through proactive outreach and thought‑leadership opportunities. Monitor media coverage to identify trends, opportunities, and risks. Lead the creation of press releases, award submissions, and external announcements, and serve as spokesperson when appropriate. Partner across the organization to ensure all public‑facing communications are aligned, effective, and brand‑consistent.
Serve as a champion of the Unitus brand, guiding standards and governance while reviewing, refining, and producing content to ensure aligned and high‑quality communications.
Lead the planning and execution of clear, audience‑focused communications that support all Unitus products, services, and strategic initiatives. Partner closely with teams across the organization to engage Communications early in projects and ensure messaging is aligned, consistent, and effective. In addition to providing strategic guidance, contribute directly by creating content, shaping product positioning, and developing compelling messaging and campaigns. Deliver timely and impactful communications that strengthen the brand and deepen engagement with the people and communities we serve.
Lead and provide strategic guidance for executive communications, major organizational changes, and all crisis and reputation‑critical situations. Own the development of clear narratives, talking points, and executive messaging, applying sound judgment and discretion to navigate sensitive issues and protect the organization’s reputation.
Define success metrics for the Communications function and regularly assess performance across channels and initiatives. Use data, insights, and feedback to refine strategy and improve execution. Own the communication audit process, evaluating the effectiveness of communication channels and making recommendations for enhancements that strengthen reach, clarity, and impact.

Benefits

Medical + Dental + Vision
Flexible Spending Accounts + HSA
Employees accrue up to 20 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) during their first twelve months of employment
Unitus recognizes 12 paid holidays per year
401(k) Retirement Savings
Annual Incentives (eligibility dependent)
Employee Assistance Plan
Tuition Reimbursement
Student Loan Debt Repayment
Transit & Parking benefits
Paid Volunteer Time Off