Communications Director

Job Opening at the Civic Federation: Director of Communications

The Civic Federation is an independent, non-partisan government research organization that provides robust and objective fiscal analysis, recommendations, and oversight for the benefit of civic and business leaders, the media, and the general public in Chicago and the State of Illinois. Founded in 1894 to address deep concerns about the city's economic and political climate at the turn of the century, the Federation has been a civic leader in Chicago and Illinois for 130 years. In the past ten years alone, the Federation’s track record includes publishing over 600 long and short-form reports and budget analyses of 11 different state and local government entities and fiscal-adjacent policy issues.

Position Title & Description: Director of Communications

The Director of Communications is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the Civic Federation’s internal and external communications strategy. The Director oversees all media and public relations and generates content for the Federation’s engagement efforts. The Director of Communications reports to the President, works collaboratively with the Director of Research, Director of Development and Program Strategist, and manages one full-time employee.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and implement the Civic Federation’s internal and external communications and messaging strategies to achieve mission objectives;
• Working with the President, assist in the development and stewardship of key stakeholder and media relationships;
• Manage the release and strategic promotion of Civic Federation reports, blogposts and position statements, including drafting supportive press releases;
• Develop and manage social media profiles for the organization;
• Ensure that the Federation’s research products reach key stakeholders via print, broadcast and social media;
• Produce, write and edit the Civic Federation’s Annual Report and monthly newsletters;
• Develop basic working knowledge of the research topics studied and reported by the Civic Federation;
• Direct updates, periodic upgrades, and enhancements to the Civic Federation website both internally and with contract partners;
• Assure professional editing and proofreading of research products for publication; and
• Working with the Research and Development teams, provide strategic input and assistance on programming and other events;
• Other duties as necessary.

Qualifications

• Exceptional writing and editing skills;
• Demonstrated organizational, communications and time management skills, and attention to detail;
• Ability to work well under deadlines, adapt to changing priorities, and succeed in a fast-paced environment;
• At least three years’ experience in communications, media relations, and communications strategy including social media preferred;
• Graduate degree in journalism, communications, literature, public policy, political science or 4+ years relevant work experience; and
• Demonstrated interest in government and public policy.

Salary and Compensation

Salary commensurate with experience, up to $90,000. Generous vacation and benefits package. This is a full-time position.

To apply, please email in PDF format:

• Cover letter stating your qualifications and interest in the position
• Resume
• One long writing sample (approx.10 pages) and one short (2 to 3 pages) summary of an issue or document (e.g.: executive summary, abstract, memorandum)
• Three references.

Address application to:

Human Resources

The Civic Federation

10 N. Dearborn, Suite 800

Chicago, IL 60602

HR@civicfed.org (no phone calls please)

Research shows that people belonging to structurally marginalized groups often only apply to jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. As no one ever meets 100% of the qualifications, we encourage you to apply if you feel that most of the above qualifications reflect your experience and expertise. 

The Civic Federation is an equal opportunity employer. We fundamentally support and remain committed to seeking a diverse, equitable and inclusive staff and board of directors to serve the mission of The Civic Federation. All membership and employment decisions are made with this commitment in mind, and we welcome everyone to our team. 

The Civic Federation encourages BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ people, veterans, and any individuals with disabilities or any other legally protected status to apply. Please feel free to note your pronouns and/or any reasonable accommodation requests in your application or during the interview process.