Director of Communications

Kennedy Jenks•Raleigh, NC

13h•$165,000 - $185,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Communications leads Kennedy Jenks’s internal and external communications strategy, shaping how our story is told and experienced by employees, clients, and the broader industry. Working closely with senior leadership, this role drives clear, consistent, and compelling communications that advance our strategy, strengthen our culture, and support long-term growth. As a key partner to the Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, CEO, and executive team, the Director of Communications translates strategy into narrative—helping leaders and employees understand the why, see their role in execution, and stay aligned as KJ evolves. This role also coaches senior leaders on using communication as a powerful leadership and engagement tool. Strong executive presence, exceptional writing skills, and experience in the engineering or professional services industry are essential.

Requirements

15+ years of experience leading complex, integrated communications strategies
Deep understanding of how PR, editorial, social, marketing, and thought leadership work together
Proven ability to develop, execute, and measure high-impact communications programs
Exceptional storytelling skills with a strong strategic lens
Executive-level presence and comfort partnering with C-suite and senior leaders
Demonstrated people leadership experience, with the ability to build and grow high-performing teams
Strong judgment, problem-solving ability, and collaborative decision-making style
Resilient, curious, and adaptable in a fast-evolving environment
Commitment to integrity, inclusion, and amplifying diverse perspectives

Responsibilities

Set and lead KJ’s communications strategy, ensuring consistent messaging across all internal and external audiences.
Advise the CEO, Board, and senior leadership on strategic messaging, positioning, and communications opportunities.
Own and evolve KJ’s brand, including voice, visual identity, and brand standards, to reflect a future-focused vision.
Establish communications standards, editorial governance, and messaging frameworks across the organization.
Direct visual and content strategy across platforms, including website, marketing materials, client deliverables, conferences, and social media.
Lead executive and internal communications strategies that align leadership messaging with business priorities.
Strengthen the employer brand through purpose-driven, transparent communication that fosters engagement and connection.
Partner closely with leaders across KJ, challenging and refining thinking where needed to ensure clarity and alignment.
Support KJ’s internal events (virtual and in-person) that inform, engage, and connect employees.
Oversee editorial planning, content creation, and distribution of major internal communications.
Leverage technology and data to modernize internal communications and enhance employee experience in a distributed work environment.
Craft and activate compelling corporate narratives that clearly articulate KJ’s values through content, thought leadership, social media, events, and earned media.
Position KJ as an employer of choice through innovative employer branding and recruitment-focused communications.
Own KJ’s website, including content strategy, SEO, analytics, and ongoing updates.
Lead social media strategy and content to support brand, talent, and business development goals.
Develop regional communications strategies to support growth across geographies.
Manage inbound communications, external inquiries, and targeted award submissions for staff and leadership.