Open New York (ONY) is a grassroots organization advocating for abundant homes and lower rent. We are seeking a highly skilled, entrepreneurial, and passionate Director of Communications and Digital Strategy to join our growing team.

The Director of Communications and Digital Strategy will play a critical role as part of Open New York’s core leadership team advancing the pro-housing mission across New York City and State. This role will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive communication strategy, managing social media and digital platforms, building Open New York’s brand, engaging our membership base, and coordinating our press and creative engagement efforts to grow the pro-housing movement in New York.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in communications and digital strategy, exceptional writing and social media skills, strong working knowledge of the pro-housing movement, basic understanding of the political landscape of New York City and State, and an entrepreneurial spirit to bring to a small and quickly growing organization.

The Director of Communications and Digital Strategy will report directly to the Executive Director.

Job Responsibilities:

• Create and execute a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with the organization's goals and objectives:
  • Identify target audiences and tailor messages to effectively reach and engage them.
  • Oversee branding and messaging consistency across all communication channels.
  • Provide communications materials and messaging for members and advocates.
• Manage digital platforms and online presence:
  • Oversee the organization's website, social media channels, email marketing, and other digital platforms.
  • Create compelling and engaging content for online channels to raise awareness and foster engagement.
  • Design and manage digital ad campaigns as needed.
  • Monitor digital analytics and evaluate the effectiveness of online campaigns.
• Lead media relations and public relations efforts:
  • Respond to incoming press inquiries and proactively pitch new stories and angles, in conjunction with ONY leadership and consultants.
  • Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, journalists, and key influencers.
  • Develop and distribute press releases, media kits, and other relevant materials.
  • Manage relevant consultant teams, coordinate media inquiries with appropriate team member, and serve as the organization's spokesperson as needed
• Drive public outreach and advocacy:
  • Create and manage creative communication, graphics, and digital media campaigns aligned with the organization’s policy agenda to clearly communicate and raise awareness about housing issues in accessible ways.
  • Collaborate with the Political Director and Policy Director to develop briefings and educational materials for elected officials and legislative staff.
  • Manage message-testing and polling efforts with consultant teams to refine our message to key target audiences.
  • Amplify the voices of our grassroots members and tell the stories of those impacted by the housing crisis.
  • Collaborate with partner organizations to coordinate messaging and strengthen coalition-building efforts.
• Monitor industry trends and best practices:
  • Stay updated on pro-housing messaging efforts in other states, communication trends, and digital strategies.
  • Conduct regular evaluations to measure the impact and effectiveness of communication efforts.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field;
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in strategic communications, digital marketing, or related roles;
• Strong familiarity with housing and land use issues in New York and the pro-housing movement;
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear and compelling messages;
• Strong proficiency in growing and managing digital platforms, including social media, websites, and email marketing; experience with graphic design tools preferred but not required;
• Experience in press and media relations and the New York media landscape;
• Ability to think strategically, analyze data, and make data-driven decisions;
• Strong project management skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks;
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively with a wide range of people;
• The ability to work well under pressure, respond quickly to breaking news, meet deadlines, and prioritize multiple tasks;
• Enthusiastic, entrepreneurial spirit and interest in being part of a small team building an organization and broader movement;
• Residence in New York, with NYC region preferred;
• Passion for social justice, housing equity, and the mission and values of Open New York.

Salary and benefits:

Salary commensurate with experience; approximate salary range is $105,000 - 115,000 per year. Healthcare plan is provided.

To Apply:

Submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample or portfolio, and the contact information for three professional references to ONYJobs@opennewyork.city. Please include “Director of Communications and Digital Strategy” in the subject line.

Submission of an application package is not a guarantee that you will receive an interview. Only those candidates under consideration will be contacted.

Open New York is committed to a diverse workforce, and we seek diversity among applicants for this position. People of color, women, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.