Senior Director, Communications
National College Attainment Network
Washington, DC · Posted October 26, 2026
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About the job
The National College Attainment Network (NCAN) is a small, collaborative team of experienced professionals fully committed to achieving equity for students historically underrepresented in higher education: students from low-income backgrounds, first-generation-to-college students, and/or students of color. Our fast-paced work environment supports a work-life balance that allows team members to use their talents to the fullest.
As a national membership network, we are continually informed and inspired by organizations and systems across the country committed to breaking down barriers for students and supporting them in earning college degrees and building successful careers.
The Opportunity
NCAN’s Senior Director, Communications focuses on raising awareness of the value of higher education for students furthest from opportunity, as well as strategies to increase post-secondary attainment.
Reporting to the Chief External Relations Officer, the Senior Director, Communications provides day-to-day oversight of NCAN’s communications channels, leads media strategy, shapes NCAN’s external messaging, and finds opportunities to bring NCAN’s recommended policies and practices to new audiences. The Senior Director, Communications, supervises the Communications Manager and manages occasional outside vendors.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
10 to 12 years of progressively responsible communications-related professional experience, preferably in journalism, media relations, government affairs, membership associations, higher education institutions, or education policy.
At least 3 to 5 years of staff supervisory experience.
Substantial knowledge of national higher education policy related to postsecondary access and degree completion and financial aid for students underrepresented in higher education.
Experience in earned media and thought leadership strategy planning, goal-setting, tracking, and internal reporting.
Proactive media pitching and relationships with education policy and political media.
Strong understanding of digital communications and social media strategies and platforms.
Working knowledge of website basics, search engine optimization approaches, and Google Analytics to monitor website traffic and identify opportunities for improvement.
Clear, confident, and persuasive writing about complex topics, including via social media posts, talking points, and op-eds.
Nuanced judgment in message framing and placement.
Problem-solving and an ability to manage multiple tasks with overlapping time frames and short deadlines.
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint) and social media (primarily LinkedIn).
Commitment to educational equity and experience working with diverse communities.
Salary: $164,785
Benefits include: generous leave time, health, dental & vision insurance, employer-matched 401(k), professional development, and a performance-based bonus (budget dependent).