Communications and Advocacy Officer - IHEP

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Institute for Higher Education Policy Communications and Advocacy Officer The Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to promoting access to and success in higher education for all students. Based in Washington, D.C., IHEP develops innovative policy- and practice-oriented research to guide policymakers and education leaders, who develop high-impact policies that will address our nation’s most pressing education challenges. JOB SUMMARY: The Communications and Advocacy Officer will lead an ambitious effort to advance the organization’s agenda by disseminating our work and message to a wide variety of stakeholders nationwide, including researchers, policymakers, practitioners, institutions of higher education, and advocates. Through the use of both online and offline strategies and mechanisms, this person will be responsible for increasing awareness of the critical importance of improving educational outcomes for all students. A successful candidate will strengthen IHEP’s mission and impact in the field by helping us find new and creative ways to tell our story. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Lead the strategy, planning, development, and implementation of IHEP’s communications and advocacy work.



Identify and implement policy and advocacy strategies designed to advance IHEP’s policy priorities and vision through legislative, regulatory and non-regulatory work with governmental agencies; at the federal, state, and local levels; and in partnership with other organizations.



Develop strategic partnerships with key constituencies to elicit support for and maximize impact of IHEP’s research and other initiatives, including serving as the principal communications and advocacy liaison to media organizations, governmental agencies, national groups, educational organizations, etc.



Lead IHEP’s media outreach efforts, including initiating media contacts, press briefings, and interviews; providing talking points and other materials as needed for senior staff; and responding to media inquiries quickly and effectively.



Provide advice and expertise to senior leaders and other staff on a range of advocacy and outreach issues, methods, and approaches.



Manage and coordinate the production of a diverse range of products (including research reports, policy briefs, videos, infographics, etc.) tailored to specific audiences to help tell our story.



Collaborate with staff to craft press releases, official statements, opinion pieces, and blog posts; devise strategic dissemination strategies; and create and manage innovative advocacy campaigns and other related events.



Develop, implement, and effectively manage a social media strategy and presence for IHEP.



Update, refine, and evolve IHEP’s website regularly to maintain fresh content and a user-friendly design.



Manage the day-to-day operations of IHEP’s communications function, including branding, budgeting, planning, and maintaining a communications calendar.



Establish metrics and regularly evaluate the results and impact of our communications efforts, and report internally on developments and trends within the industry.



Work with external consultants and manage outside vendors, as needed.

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS:     

Excellent verbal, interpersonal, and written communication skills. Strong attention to detail and ability follow-through and push projects to completion. Success leading/championing projects. Strong analytical, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment, balance multiple competing priorities, and operate on short timelines.

QUALIFICATIONS and EXPERIENCE 

Unwavering commitment to IHEP’s mission of using research to inform policies that improve postsecondary opportunities, access, and success for low-income students, students of color, and other underrepresented groups.



At least 10 years of professional experience, with significant experience in a communications role. Experience working in a non-profit or advocacy role is preferred.



A foundation of knowledge around higher education policy and landscape is a plus.



Ability to synthesize and communicate complex issues and information to diverse audiences in innovative and creative ways.



Must come with established relationships to media, as well as a demonstrated ability to develop, maintain, and build upon strong media and partner relationships.



Experience successfully positioning subject matter with national, regional, and local media to achieve high-impact results.



A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in communications, policy, or a related field, however a master’s or other advanced degree is preferred.

COMPENSATION Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. IHEP offers a comprehensive benefits package. HOW TO APPLY: Interested candidates should provide a cover letter, resume, and writing sample (no more than five pages, sections from a longer paper are fine) to be considered for this position. To apply, please click here. The Institute for Higher Education Policy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages diversity in all facets of the organization’s work.