About Understood
Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive.
Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values:
- Continuously learn.
- Act with intention.
- Champion difference.
- Inspire change.
- Grow together.
Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential.
To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.
Who you are
To advance Understood’s mission and further our impact, we are hiring a Director of Internal Communications, reporting to the Vice President of Integrated Marketing & Strategic Planning.
Understood is seeking a strategic and innovative Director of Internal Communications to lead our internal communication and employer brand efforts to retain, and engage current employees and attract potential employees. This person will be responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies to ensure effective communication and engagement among our employees as well as architecting Understood’s employer brand externally to attract and engage potential employees. This role will play a crucial part in fostering a positive organizational culture and alignment with our mission and values.
The ideal candidate for the Director of Internal Communications is a strategic thinker with a passion for effective communication and employee engagement. They possess a proven track record of developing and implementing comprehensive internal communication strategies. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with the ability to craft clear, compelling messages and communicate them clearly and effectively.
Candidates should be collaborative, adaptable, and able to work effectively with cross-functional teams and senior leadership. They demonstrate strong leadership capabilities and have experience managing internal communication platforms and employee engagement initiatives. Additionally, they have a keen understanding of employer branding and can effectively manage external communication channels to attract and engage potential employees.
This is a hybrid opportunity, which requires three (3) days per week in our NYC office.
What you’ll do
- Develop and Implement Internal Communication Strategy: In partnership with the Chief People & Culture Officer design and execute a comprehensive internal communication strategy that aligns with the organization’s goals, values, and culture.
- Content Creation and Management: Work in partnership with the People & Culture Team to create engaging content for internal communication channels, including monthly newsletter, monthly All Team Meetings, email and Slack announcements, the Intranet, and presentations. Ensure content is informative, relevant, and inspiring to employees.
- External Employer Brand Management: Develop and manage strategies to enhance the organization’s external employer brand. Craft compelling messaging and content to attract and engage potential employees through various channels, including Understood’s blog, and social media.
- Employee Engagement Initiatives: In partnership with the Director of Employee Engagement & Talent Acquisition, develop initiatives to enhance employee engagement, morale, and satisfaction. This may include organizing events, recognition programs, and surveys to gather feedback.
- Leadership Communication Support: Provide guidance and support to senior leadership in crafting effective communication messages for internal audiences. Assist in preparing leaders for internal presentations, board meetings, and all team meetings.
- Internal Communication Platforms Management: Oversee the management and maintenance of internal communication platforms such as the Intranet, and Slack.
- Measurement and Analysis: Establish metrics to measure the effectiveness of internal communication efforts. Analyze data and feedback to continuously improve communication strategies and tactics.
- Change Management Communication: Collaborate with various departments and teams to support organizational change initiatives by developing communication plans and content to effectively communicate changes, address concerns, and maintain employee morale and engagement.
- Team Leadership: Manage one direct report providing guidance, mentorship, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
Must-haves
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and compelling messages
- 8+ years experience in internal communications, with experience working closely with C-Suite executives
- Experience in an agency environment is preferred
- Committed to embodying and being a steward of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
Nice-to-haves
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field preferred
- Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with the ability to translate organizational goals into effective communication strategies
- Experience leading and managing internal communication initiatives, including content creation, employee engagement programs, and change management communication
- Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and senior leadership
- Proficiency in communication tools and platforms, including intranet systems, email marketing software, and social media
- Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment
The base salary range for this role is minimum $165,000 - $195,000 maximum, depending on years of experience and qualifications. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports wellness for our team members and their families. You can learn more about our benefits and offerings.
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.
Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.
For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.
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