Director of Public Policy and Communications

Job Summary

Do you envision a future where the justice system is humane, holistic, and restorative, and where public education nourishes the spark in each student and fosters values like belonging and joyful self-expression? If you are looking for an opportunity to advocate for change within the community and inside state and municipal systems, we're looking for a passionate, visionary leader who believes that Savannah can and should be a place where all people are valued and respected, and where all families have a chance to thrive.

The Director of Public Policy and Communications will play a vital role in advancing Deep’s mission within the Savannah community. This leadership position is responsible for guiding state and local policy initiatives related to youth education and juvenile justice, and fostering strategic partnerships with community stakeholders across Georgia. The Director develops policy recommendations in response to lived experiences of youth and adults in Deep's programs, and by identifying the unmet needs in our communities.

This role combines responsibilities in both policy and communications, offering a unique opportunity to shape Deep’s voice and visibility. The Director will lead the development and execution of communication strategies, messaging, and materials that elevate the organization’s mission. Collaborating closely with other directors, this position will help ensure that Deep’s external presence is impactful, cohesive, and aligned with its core values.

Ideal candidate will be a passionate advocate for equity, systems change, and youth empowerment in Savannah, as well as a skilled communicator with a commitment to promoting Deep’s impact and vision.

Essential Duties

Policy/Advocacy

• Lead the design development of Deep’s strategic advocacy initiatives
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationship with elected officials, policymakers, key stakeholders
• Represent Deep in coalitions, policy forums and stakeholder meetings

Communication

• Oversee the creation and distribution of content including press releases, newsletters, website updates, and social media posts
• Manage media relations
• Develop persuasive advocacy and policy materials that support Deep’s goals and mission

Reporting & Supervision

This position reports directly to the Executive Director and currently has supervisory responsibilities for one community organizer.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required; Master’s degree in public policy, political science or related field preferred
• 3-5 years of policy, advocacy and/or campaign experience with a proven track record of success
• Experience advocating for a variety of public policy issues and the flexibility to learn about new issues
• Strong working knowledge of the municipal government ordinance and state legislative processes
• Demonstrated policy expertise in education and/or criminal justice
• Skilled at supervising staff in an organizing or canvassing setting
• Experience in public relations, communications, or media relations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and research and analytical ability
• Strong editorial judgment and writing skills across formats and audiences
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work well under deadlines
• Ability to exhibit significant attention to detail and produce high quality deliverables
• Passion for our mission

Aren’t sure if you meet every single requirement? We encourage you to apply if you think you would be a good fit, even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications. At Deep Center, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and equity-driven workplace. So if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.