Director of Global Communications
Location
New York City/Hybrid
Posted
Status
Full Time, Regular, Exempt
Reports to
Vice President for Communications & Publications
Organization

Founded in 1968, the Guttmacher Institute is a global leader in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Through a unique and interrelated program of high-quality research, evidence-based advocacy and strategic communications, the Institute works to generate new ideas, encourage enlightened public debate, and promote sound policy and program development; its overarching goal is to ensure the highest standard of sexual and reproductive health and rights for all people worldwide. The Institute is engaged in building a more inclusive, transparent and equitable organization.

Position summary

The Director of Global Communications reports to the VP for Communications & Publications, is a member of the Communications & Publications Division’s Management Team and works in close coordination with global policy and research experts. This position leads Guttmacher’s Global Communications Team and oversees the planning and execution of strategic communications to maximize the impact of the Institute’s work on shaping public debate and policy outcomes on SRHR issues in regions and countries other than the United States. The Director of Global Communications plays an integral role in the Institute’s organizational change efforts and works closely with the rest of the Communications & Publications team, as well as the global Research and Policy teams, to guide and oversee the creation of materials and outreach plans for the Institute’s global research and policy analysis. This position also works closely with the Development Team on grant proposals and individual giving campaigns to support the global portfolio. The position directly supervises and mentors a team of four: a Senior Global Communications Manager, a Senior Global Digital Communications Manager, a Global Communications Manager, and the Global Communications Assistant. 

Responsibilities
  • In consultation with the VP for Communications & Publications, works with the Institute’s Executive Leadership Team, cross-divisional Management Team and Research and Policy experts, to maintain and strengthen Guttmacher’s position as a leader on global issues related to SRHR worldwide, maximizing the impact of its global, regional and country-focused research and policy analysis.

  • Leads the Institute’s global communications team, including direct supervision of a group of communications professionals; prioritization of projects and staff assignments; coordination and monitoring of nimble processes, tools and tactics focused on achieving high external impact; and development of and adherence to project timelines and schedules. 

  • Coordinates strategy and efforts to ensure global messaging is effective and consistent across platforms and audiences; ensures that spokespeople are equipped with talking points and other resources as required; and is responsible for the strategic positioning of our CEO and experts as thought leaders in global SRHR. 

  • Oversees the Institute’s global media relations office, providing both proactive guidance and ongoing input to help media relations staff drive, shape and inform global media coverage proactively, and to ensure effective management of incoming media requests. 

  • Leads or helps coordinate the Institute’s rapid response to SRHR-relevant events outside of the United States, including identifying opportunities to uplift Guttmacher’s existing research and policy analysis, to strengthen our own narratives, and to push back against disinformation and junk science. 

  • Guides and oversees the planning, development and implementation of outreach plans around major non-US program areas spanning the Research and Public Policy divisions. 

  • Oversees the development and implementation of communications plans for funded global projects, including the management of contractual relationships with in-country partners following the Institute’s principles on equitable partnerships.  

  • Develops and manages contracts with and payments to external vendors and consultants, ensuring adherence to scope of work, timelines and project deliverables. 

  • Works in close coordination with Research and Policy staff to provide input and feedback on new ideas and projects, and as-needed reviews articles and reports prior to journal submission or internal publication to provide language, message and framing guidance. 

  • Supports the Development team in project conceptualization and development and oversees the global communications team’s involvement in drafting of funder proposals and reports. 

  • Represents the Institute at relevant coalition meetings, conferences and donor meetings, and participates in the Global Strategies Group, which works to set the overall strategic direction for Guttmacher’s global engagement by establishing long-term global policy goals to promote evidence-based policymaking and bring research to bear on global policy discussions related to sexual and reproductive health and rights. 

  • Works in close partnership with C&P directors and senior staff to help improve cross and interdivisional communication, and coordinate efforts closely and on an ongoing basis with other members of the Communications team, including the web, design and digital teams. 

  • Performs other job-related tasks and projects as assigned. 

Supervisory responsibilities: 

  • Supervises the Senior Global Communications Manager, the Senior Global Digital Communications Manager, the Global Communications Manager and the Global Communications Assistant; plans, assigns and provides guidance and oversight on work; engages in ongoing feedback and support; appraises performance.  

  • Ensures a coordinated approach to professional development, training and mentorship for the full global communications team.  

  • In accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws, participates in interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training employees.  

Qualifications and skills

  • Minimum of 10 years relevant work experience.  

  • Experience with project management and supervision. 

  • Superior writing, presentation and communications skills. 

  • Commitment to creating and sustaining an equitable and inclusive workplace. 

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and activities, work under deadlines and respond rapidly to crises. 

  • Experience in the field of sexual and reproductive health and rights or related highly valued, but not required. 

  • Self-motivation together with ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. 

  • Experience in media relations and/or media training a plus 

Salary and benefits

Salary starting at $154,738 to $255,000 and will commensurate with experience.  Excellent benefits that include medical, dental, vision and life insurance; vacation, personal and sick time, paid parental leave; tuition reimbursement; commuting subsidy; and 401(k) with employer match. The Guttmacher Institute strives to provide the training and support staff need to be successful in their positions and to grow professionally. 

How to Apply

To apply, submit resume and cover letter here.

Please note that telephone inquiries will not be acknowledged. No agencies, please.

Guttmacher is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer  

The Guttmacher Institute seeks to foster a diverse, inclusive and equitable work environment, where employees’ talents are valued and recognized as an asset to the achievement of our mission. We endeavor to make the application process accessible to all users. If you need assistance learning about or applying to our employment opportunities, please contact our human resources department at (212) 248-1111 or [email protected].