Director of Communications

WBEZ-FM 91.5

. Lead external communications for Chicago Public Media's portfolio of trusted local media brands, including WBEZ, the Chicago Sun-Times, chicago.com, and Vocalo .

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

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in developing and executing comprehensive external communications strategies, with a strong focus on media relations, executive communications, and crisis management. Proven ability to cultivate relationships with media professionals and deliver compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

Highest-signal resume keywords

External Communications Strategy DevelopmentMedia RelationsExecutive Communications ExperienceCrisis Communications ManagementStorytelling and Writing Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Press Release WritingSpeechwritingMedia CoachingKPI EstablishmentCommunications Strategy Execution

Soft Skills

CollaborationJudgment and DiscretionRelationship BuildingAdaptabilityStorytelling

Industry Keywords

Public Service MediaLocal JournalismCivic EngagementMedia OutreachThought Leadership

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead external communications for Chicago Public Media's portfolio of trusted local media brands, including WBEZ, the Chicago Sun-Times, chicago.com, and Vocalo
Develop and execute a comprehensive external communications strategy
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
Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries
Cultivate relationships with local, national, and industry 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 identify opportunities to amplify priorities and respond to emerging issues
Develop executive speeches, talking points, opinion pieces, award nominations, and messaging
Secure speaking engagements, interviews, conferences, awards, and other thought-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
Support communications planning and execution 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 and represent communications in cross-functional planning

Requirements

What you’ll need

Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills
Ability to translate complex topics into clear, compelling communications for diverse audiences
Demonstrated success securing earned media coverage
Strong relationships with journalists and media outlets
Experience developing and executing communications strategies
Strong executive communications experience, including speechwriting, messaging, media preparation, and thought leadership
Experience supporting organizations through high-profile or sensitive communications challenges
Strong judgment and discretion
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Highly collaborative
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
Competitive salary and benefits package
Equal opportunity employment