Director of Communications

BARBERTON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Communications is responsible for developing and executing strategic communications that expand the reach, visibility, and impact of Barberton Community Foundation. This Director-level role partners with executive leadership to shape and amplify the Foundation's narrative, manage high-impact events, and strengthen relationships with donors, fund representatives, and community partners. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic team of six and help launch the Foundation's new strategic plan while building a comprehensive communications function.

ABOUT BARBERTON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Barberton Community Foundation strengthens our community by advancing philanthropy, managing donor funds, and awarding grants that create lasting impact. We work with our community to identify and address critical needs, and we're committed to telling the stories of those who give, benefit from, and champion our work. Our core values that drive our culture are: Believe, Innovate, Collaborate, Elevate, Commit.

POSITION DETAILS

Reports to: Executive Director
Work Location: On-site/in-community is prioritized (with some remote flexibility as needed)
Salary: Starting at $75,000/year with a range commensurate with experience/qualifications; this position is eligible for a full package of employee benefits, including health insurance, long and short-term disability, 401(k) plan, personal paid-time off, and paid holidays.
Timeline: Applications accepted through February 1, 2026 with an April 6, 2026 target start date

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Communications & Brand Management

• Partner with the Executive Director on communications strategy aligned with the Foundation's new strategic plan
• Develop messaging frameworks and materials that communicate the Foundation's mission, impact, and value proposition to diverse audiences
• Tell compelling stories of donors, fund representatives, and scholarship namesakes that deepen community engagement and understanding
• Manage the Foundation's reputation and brand voice across all platforms and communications including projects like the Annual Report, and more

Events Management

• Plan and execute no more than 5 events per year, including the Foundation's signature annual dinner, donor appreciation events, and community-facing events
• Develop event objectives, manage timelines, coordinate with vendors and partners, oversee budgets, and ensure flawless execution
• Leverage events as strategic opportunities to strengthen relationships and advance messaging
• Demonstrate exceptional project management, delivering events on time and on budget

Public Relations & Media Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with relevant media
• Develop and distribute press releases, media alerts, and story pitches
• Secure earned media coverage that promotes the Foundation's work and impact
• Position Foundation leadership and programs for media visibility

Website & Digital Communications

• Manage the Foundation's website (HubSpot), ensuring accuracy, compelling storytelling, optimal user experience, and digital accessibility
• Oversee website updates, content calendars, and technical coordination
• Ensure all digital properties reflect current branding and messaging

Email Marketing & Direct Communications

• Develop and manage email campaigns to donors, fund representatives, partners, and community members
• Create segmented communications that drive engagement and action
• Use akoyaGO CRM to manage contacts, automate workflows, and track results

Social Media Management

• Develop social media strategy across Meta (Facebook) and other relevant platforms
• Create engaging, on-brand content that tells the Foundation's story and builds community
• Manage community engagement and respond to inquiries
• Use analytics to measure performance and refine strategy

Other Communications Support

• Collaborate cross-functionally on communications that support fundraising and donor cultivation
• Develop presentations, donor materials, and other communications materials as needed
• Communicate grant awards and impact back to donors and fund representatives and community

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or related field
• 5-7+ years of professional communications experience, preferably 7-10+ years
• Demonstrated expertise in written and spoken communications with ability to communicate clearly and compellingly to diverse audiences
• Proven project management skills with ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously, meet deadlines, and deliver quality work on schedule
• Experience with HubSpot and Meta (Facebook) platforms
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external partners
• Proficiency with modern communications tools and platforms
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Passion for nonprofit work and community impact (especially in the Barberton community)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Nonprofit or philanthropic sector experience
• Knowledge of donor relations and philanthropy
• Professional writing experience (articles, donor communications, etc.)
• Experience with event management, including vendor coordination and budget management
• Graphic design capabilities are welcome but not required
• Video/multimedia production experience is welcome but not required
• Experience with communications platforms and tools (e.g., CMS platforms, email marketing software, social media management tools)