Summary
Description
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
We are seeking a sharp, detail-oriented communications professional who is passionate about public education and committed to telling powerful, mission-aligned stories. The ideal candidate is an exceptional writer and editor—someone who can not only craft compelling content but also catch errors, ensure consistency, and uphold our brand voice and messaging standards across all platforms. This person thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, brings strong organizational skills, and takes pride in delivering polished, high-quality communications that advance our mission and engage our community. Experience in nonprofit communications, marketing, or public relations is strongly preferred.
WHAT YOU WOULD BE DOING
On a typical day, the Communications Manager will craft compelling stories and messaging that highlight the impact of the DPS Foundation’s work—writing everything from donor appeals and impact reports to social media content and event materials. They’ll work closely with internal teams to support fundraising efforts, ensure brand consistency, and edit content across departments. The day might also include updating the website, coordinating with external vendors, pitching media stories, or developing materials for major events like the Achieve Gala. All content is created with a student-centered and equity-focused lens, and decisions are informed by data and analytics.
JOB SUMMARY
The Communications Manager serves as the key storyteller for the DPS Foundation’s impact, creating powerful messaging and materials targeted to help the community understand the deep need for their support; and the tangible and ongoing outcomes of their investment in DPS; and showcasing DPS Foundation as a leader in the K-12 nonprofit industry.
The Manager conceptualizes, writes and provides creative direction for appeals, stewardship messages, campaign materials and online marketing and fundraising tools. The manager develops and implements a comprehensive public relations strategy while cultivating and strengthening relationships with media outlets. This role requires an exceptional, dynamic and fast-paced writer, skilled in surfacing key themes and creating exceptional, brand consistent content on sometimes short deadlines. The manager reports to the Vice President of Marketing & Communications and works closely with the Development team and Impact team. This role is seen as the organization’s communications and public relations expert –staying current on industry trends and creatively finding new ways to highlight the organization to further its mission of supporting DPS students, educators and families.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
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Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing or journalism
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Minimum of three years of related professional experience with demonstrated track record in creating exceptional messaging in a deadline-driven environment
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Outstanding written and oral communication skills with a strong attention to detail
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Content knowledge of K-12 public education is helpful
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Proficiency in Spanish, both written and verbal, is preferred
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Graphic design experience is strongly preferred
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Public relations experience is preferred
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Some experience in a fundraising organization is a plus
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Creativity and big-picture mindset; ability to carry key themes and messages through multiple campaigns, pieces and events throughout the year
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Excellent planning and organizational skills; independence, initiative and follow-through to execute projects from initial stage through completion
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Deadline driven; ability to multitask and prioritize efficiently; demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, both as an individual and as part of the team
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Ability to maximize cross-departmental collaboration; surfacing creativity among team members and ability to work efficiently with others in the organization
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, HootSuite, Constant Contact as well as the ability to operate standard office equipment
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Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact with others in a professional manner as a representative of DPS Foundation
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Must maintain the utmost discretion with confidential information about donors or potential donors
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Professional demeanor with strong ethical standards and ability to adapt to change
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Self-motivated, team player, highly organized, able to prioritize and detail-oriented
HOW TO APPLY TO JOIN THE TEAM
Please send a resume and cover letter telling us about you, why this job would be a good fit for you, and specifically any experience you have managing communications to jobs@dpsfoundation.org. Please include a writing sample in your submission that showcases your strongest work and writing style. To ensure your submission is considered, please include “Communications Manager” in the subject line. No telephone inquiries, please. The position is open for immediate hire and will be open until filled. DPS Foundation encourages all qualified candidates to apply.