Director of Communications and Public Relations

Arizona Humane Society•Phoenix, AZ

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Arizona Humane Society is seeking a full-time Director of Communications and Public Relations at its Papago Park Campus. This leadership role advances the organization’s lifesaving mission, strengthens its reputation, and inspires community support for animals in need. The Director develops and executes strategic communications initiatives, advises executive leadership, oversees media relations and storytelling, leads crisis and internal communications, and guides communications and social media teams. The position works Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications, or Marketing with a PR concentration.
At least 8 years of progressive communications or public relations experience, including strategic leadership.
At least 5 years of people leadership experience and a track record of developing high-performing teams.
Significant experience in media relations, crisis communications, and reputation management.
Experience advising senior executives on complex, sensitive, and high-profile issues.
Experience across internal, fundraising, and mission-driven communications.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to distill complex information into clear, compelling messages.
Collaborative leadership, executive presence, business acumen, and ability to build trust and influence across diverse audiences.
Excellent judgment, adaptability, and ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with productivity, media monitoring, social media management, and project management platforms.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the job, with reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Nice To Haves

Established Arizona media relationships are strongly preferred.
Marketing experience or strong fluency in integrated marketing, brand strategy, and audience engagement is strongly preferred.
Experience with MS Office, PowerPoint, Google Docs, Asana, TVEyes, Cision, Hootsuite, or similar tools is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute strategic communications initiatives that elevate the Arizona Humane Society’s brand, support organizational goals, and position it as a national leader in animal welfare.
Advise executive leadership on messaging, thought leadership opportunities, and sensitive or high-profile communications.
Oversee media relations, social media, and multimedia storytelling, including content, interviews, and media opportunities.
Lead crisis communications and proactive media strategies in response to emerging issues and opportunities.
Oversee internal communications to keep employees and volunteers informed, engaged, and connected to the mission.
Collaborate with Marketing, Development, and other leadership teams to align messaging, strengthen fundraising communications, and inspire community support.
Guide communications and social media teams, monitor media coverage, evaluate performance, and identify opportunities to expand the organization’s reach and impact.