Blueprint NC is a partnership of more than 55 advocacy nonprofits dedicated to achieving a better, fairer, healthier North Carolina.  The goal of its member partners is to influence NC state policy so that people benefit from such policies as better access to health care, higher wages, more affordable housing, a safer, cleaner environment, and freedom from discrimination. We are driven by the shared values of justice, equality, responsibility, fairness, community, opportunity, shared prosperity, democracy, and hope. 

Blueprint NC and its partners are determined to change the public policy debate in NC, and are dedicated to becoming more effective and prolific speakers and writers about progressive ideas and values.  We are determined to engage more citizens in the public dialogue, because we believe that the strongest democracy hears from all people, not just those with the loudest voices or most money. Blueprint NC is seeking a talented, committed, and experienced communications professional and leader to help us accomplish this goal.  One of the most important requirements is to be able to engage partners in a process of coordination and cooperation around communications across over 50 organizations. This position simultaneously leads, serves, and collaborates with the partner organizations, putting their success first. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for accomplishing the following:

Message development:

• Lead partners in development and execution of an ongoing message framework involving research, polling and focus groups.
• Lead partners in using values-based messaging to communicate their positions
• Work with Blueprint groups and external communications professional(s) to develop language and strategies to influence public policy.
• Coordinate Blueprint’s messaging with its civic and voter engagement efforts.
• Support collaborative efforts by partner groups to organize campaign communications across multiple organizations.
• Help partner groups align their earned and paid media messages.
• Assist organizations in integrating messaging research into their own communications efforts.

Communications Capacity Building:

• Provide one-on-one communications planning, coaching and tactical assistance to partner organizations. 
• Organize, and provide, trainings on a wide range of communications and media topics.
• Manage communication tools and information section on Blueprint website.
• Provide leadership support to the partner organization Communications Committee

In addition, the Director of Communications supervises the Blueprint Media Specialist, who has primary responsibility for helping partners develop effective media relationships, developing news stories and other content, coaching partner organizations on media strategies, and other media-related activities.

The ideal candidate will have a unique combination of skills and interests that include strong knowledge of strategic communications with the media and policymakers, linking messages with issue campaigns to mobilize civic action, and a commitment to building the communications capacity of other organizations. S/he will have a strong appreciation for the unique role of tax-exempt non-profit organizations as policy leaders and change agents in North Carolina, and will be committed to supporting and expanding their influence.  Some experience in political campaigns is preferred. Specific qualifications include:

• A demonstrated commitment to the shared values of Blueprint NC organizations and experience working with social justice efforts.
• Bachelor’s Degree in journalism or related field. Advanced degree in journalism or related field a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years in the management and supervision of paid staff members.
• At least 8 years of progressive responsibility doing journalism and/or communications work.  Non-profit experience strongly preferred.
• High degree of interest and passion for diversity, inclusion and anti-racism/oppression efforts.
• Highly skilled in the strategic use of communications tools and tactics for advancing policy.
• Experience developing messaging and linking to civic engagement efforts (e.g., voter registration, Get Out the Vote).
• Proven success using earned media in innovative ways to strengthen messaging.  
• Understanding and experience with message framing and development.
• Familiarity with media in North Carolina and related connections and relationships and a general understanding of the state and its unique regional differences.
• Proven ability producing multiple types of writing – such as news releases, op-eds, speeches, and blog posts. Excellent public speaking and presentation skills.
• Political communications experience essential including deep understanding of and experience with polling and developing and interpreting polling results.  
• Ability to communicate and build strong working relationships with a range of nonprofit organizations – from grassroots groups to state-level policy organizations.
• Able to work well as a team member with other organizational staff, steering committee, and general membership of coalition.
• Good personal organization, time management and planning skills, along with a demonstrated aptitude for taking the initiative on projects.
• Willingness to travel throughout North Carolina. 

Blueprint NC offers a casual work environment in its Raleigh office, committed inspired co-workers, a competitive salary and superior benefits to enhance staff quality of life including but not limited to: 100% paid high quality medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage; six weeks paid time off and twelve holidays; and a retirement plan contribution and match.

To apply please send your cover letter, resume, and list of professional references (including at least one past supervisor) as a single PDF file that has your name in its title to:  BlueprintNC.HR@gmail.com

Blueprint NC is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities and people with unique life experiences are encouraged to apply.