Director of Communications

Chicago Sun-Times

. Develop and execute a comprehensive external communications strategy for Chicago Public Media and its portfolio of brands .

Posted 10/2/2026full-timeChicago • Illinois • United StatesLead💰 $104,000 - $130,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in developing and executing comprehensive communications strategies that enhance organizational reputation and visibility, with a strong focus on media relations, executive communications, and crisis management.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Media RelationsExecutive CommunicationsCrisis CommunicationsCommunications Strategy DevelopmentStorytelling Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

WritingEditingSpeechwritingMedia CoachingPress Release DevelopmentKPI EstablishmentCommunications Effectiveness MeasurementAudience Impact AnalysisThought LeadershipFundraising Campaign Communications

Soft Skills

CollaborationJudgmentDiscretionRelationship BuildingPrioritization

Industry Keywords

Public MediaCivic EngagementLocal JournalismOrganizational InitiativesHigh-Profile Communications

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and execute a comprehensive external communications strategy for Chicago Public Media and its portfolio of brands
Partner with Marketing & Communications leadership to maintain a clear, compelling, and consistent external narrative
Develop communications strategies for organizational initiatives, partnerships, fundraising campaigns, product launches, and strategic priorities
Establish goals, KPIs, and reporting to measure communications effectiveness and refine strategy
Serve as the primary contact for media inquiries and cultivate relationships with reporters, editors, producers, and influencers
Lead proactive media outreach and secure media opportunities for journalists, editors, and executives
Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, statements, talking points, FAQs, and other communications materials
Monitor media coverage and respond to emerging issues
Partner with executives on public profile, thought leadership, speeches, opinion pieces, award nominations, and executive messaging
Secure speaking engagements, interviews, conferences, awards, and other leadership opportunities
Prepare executives for media interviews and public appearances through message development and media coaching
Advise senior leadership during sensitive organizational issues
Liaise with the external crisis communications consultant and coordinate planning, messaging, and response efforts
Support communications during high-profile or time-sensitive situations
Consult on sensitive internal communications
Partner with marketing, editorial, development, legal, human resources, and executive leadership
Provide strategic communications counsel on messaging, positioning, and audience impact
Represent communications in cross-functional planning for major initiatives and announcements

Requirements

What you’ll need

Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex topics into clear, compelling communications for diverse audiences
Demonstrated success securing earned media coverage and building strong relationships with journalists and media outlets
Experience developing and executing communications strategies that strengthen organizational reputation and visibility
Strong executive communications experience, including speechwriting, messaging, media preparation, and thought leadership
Experience supporting organizations through high-profile or sensitive communications challenges
Strong judgment, discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Highly collaborative, with the ability to build trusted relationships across departments and with senior leaders
Passion for local journalism, civic engagement, and the mission of public service media

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Vacation
Paid holidays
Life insurance
Disability coverage
Retirement savings
Commuter benefits plan
Equal Opportunity Employer committed to welcoming people from all backgrounds, orientations, and life experiences