Associate Director, Communications

Associate Director of Communications

As the Associate Director of Communications, you'll lead JASA's communications strategy, elevate the organization's brand, and oversee agency-wide messaging that highlights the impact of JASA's programs and services. Reporting to the Chief External Relations Officer, you'll collaborate with executive leadership, program teams, trustees, and external partners to develop innovative communications initiatives, manage media relations, supervise a talented communications team, and strengthen JASA's visibility throughout New York City.

Shift Schedule:

Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours Per Week:

35

🌟 Why You'll Love Working at JASA

JASA is one of New York City's largest and most respected nonprofit organizations serving older adults. Every day, our team helps thousands of New Yorkers age with dignity, independence, and security while making a lasting impact in the communities we serve.

Top Reasons to Join Us

Shape JASA's Brand & Impact

Lead the organization's communications strategy and public imageElevate awareness of programs that improve the lives of older adults across NYCTell compelling stories that inspire donors, partners, policymakers, and the community

Strategic Leadership

Partner directly with executive leadership and the Board of TrusteesSupervise and mentor a growing communications teamInfluence organization-wide messaging and communications priorities

Creative & Collaborative Environment

Work alongside program leaders, advocacy teams, PR consultants, and external partnersLead high-profile campaigns, publications, and media opportunitiesDrive innovative communications initiatives across multiple platforms

About the Role

The Associate Director of Communications is responsible for developing and executing JASA's comprehensive communications strategy while strengthening the organization's brand recognition, media presence, and community engagement.

This position oversees communications planning, media relations, content development, digital communications, publications, social media strategy, and special initiatives that advance JASA's mission.

This role requires working from JASA's Central Office or in the field at least three days per week, with additional evening and weekend attendance required for events and media opportunities.

What You'll Be Doing

Communications Strategy & Brand Leadership

Develop and implement JASA's annual communications strategyBuild communications plans that support fundraising, advocacy, and organizational growthIncrease brand visibility among:Donors and prospective supportersClients and caregiversGovernment officialsCommunity organizationsCorporate partnersMedia outletsGeneral public

Support agency-wide marketing, branding, and communications initiativesAssist with projects including:Website redesign with accessibility focusBrand redesign and rolloutMarketing campaignsOrganizational messaging

Content Development & Storytelling

Lead the development of JASA's annual Impact ReportCollaborate with program leadership to identify compelling client storiesConduct client interviews (virtual and in-person)Develop engaging written content for multiple audiencesCoordinate photography, metrics, testimonials, and program highlightsEnsure consistent messaging across all communications

Media Relations & Public Visibility

Work closely with JASA's PR consultants to identify media opportunitiesDevelop media pitches supporting organizational campaignsCoordinate interviews and press opportunitiesIdentify opportunities for JASA leadership and staff to serve as:Subject matter expertsConference speakersAward nomineesMedia spokespersons

Support crisis communications and reputation management efforts

Digital Communications & Marketing

Oversee social media strategy across multiple platformsExpand JASA's online presence and digital engagementExplore opportunities to maximize Google Grant resourcesEnsure consistent messaging across:FacebookLinkedInInstagramEmail campaignsWebsiteDigital marketing platforms

Leadership & Team Management

Supervise:Digital Content & Communications ManagerCommunications Associate

Review and approve communications materialsProvide coaching and professional developmentEnsure staff receive Canva and Emma trainingOversee communications consultants and vendorsMonitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables

Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement

Co-chair JASA's Outreach CommitteeBuild relationships with:TrusteesProgram leadershipAdvocacy teamCorporate partnersCommunity organizationsGovernment officials

Oversee the Client Ambassador ProgramIdentify clients for:Media opportunitiesCorporate volunteer eventsDonor engagementPublic speaking opportunities

Fundraising & Advocacy Communications

Support fundraising initiatives through strategic communicationsPartner with the Advocacy Team to develop newsletters and outreach materialsCreate communications highlighting JASA's impact within elected officials' districtsRecommend new audiences and engagement opportunities

Additional Responsibilities

Prepare Board Communications ReportsMonitor communications projects from concept through completionTravel throughout New York City as neededAttend occasional evening and weekend eventsPerform other duties as assigned

What You'll Need

Education

Bachelor's degree required

Experience

6–10 years of progressively responsible experience in:Strategic communicationsMarketingPublic relations

Experience working within complex nonprofit organizations is preferredExperience supervising communications staff and consultantsProven experience leading organization-wide communications strategies

Skills & Competencies

Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skillsStrong executive communications abilitiesExperience working with New York media outletsCrisis communications and reputation management experienceExcellent interpersonal and relationship-building skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and competing prioritiesStrong strategic planning and organizational skillsAbility to analyze communications effectivenessFamiliarity with fundraising communicationsPositive, collaborative attitude with a sense of humorAbility to manage confidential information with discretionWillingness to travel throughout all five boroughs of New York City and Long IslandAbility to work evenings or off-hours during urgent communications situations

Technology Skills

Microsoft Office SuiteGoogle WorkspaceCanvaEmma or similar email marketing platformFacebookLinkedInInstagramOther social media platformsAdobe Creative Suite preferredAbility to quickly learn new communications technologies

Benefits at a Glance

JASA offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and future.

Health & Wellness

Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage optionsEmployee Wellness Programs (fitness + mental health support)Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Retirement Savings

403(b) retirement planPension plan with employer contributions

Generous Time Off

Paid vacation timeHolidays and floating holidaysPaid time off for work-life balance

Professional Development

Training and continuing education opportunitiesCareer growth within the organization

Employee Recognition

Employee recognition programs celebrating contributions

EEO Statement

JASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification under federal, state, or local law.