Director, External Affairs

November 26

☕ Washington – Remote

Although this job is listed in Washington, this company may be open to hiring remote in other states.

💵 $162k - $172k / year

⏰ Full Time

🔴 Lead

👔 Director

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The Council for Professional Recognition

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Education • Non-profit • Social Impact

The Council for Professional Recognition is a leading organization in the credentialing of early childhood educators worldwide. Primarily known for its Child Development Associate® (CDA) credential, the Council plays a critical role in preparing educators to support the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of young children. This credential enhances career advancement opportunities for educators while contributing significantly to the value and professionalism of the early childhood education field. The Council also engages in policy advocacy and partners with various organizations to advance the early childhood workforce. It offers professional development opportunities, such as the Early Educators Leadership Conference, to inspire and equip educators with advanced skills and knowledge.

51 - 200 employees

Founded 1985

📚 Education

🤝 Non-profit

🌍 Social Impact

📋 Description

• In collaboration with the Vice President, Strategic Alliances, lead external engagement and partnerships by building and maintaining relationships with government agencies, policymakers, nonprofits, educational institutions, corporate partners, and national associations, serving as the Council’s primary liaison to external stakeholders. • In collaboration with the Vice President, Marketing & Communications, oversee media relations and public affairs strategy, including messaging, press releases, media inquiries, and thought-leadership opportunities that elevate the Council’s national visibility. • Drive resource development by identifying and cultivating donor, funder, and corporate sponsorship opportunities, and lead the Council’s Social Impact Investment initiative in partnership with the CEO and Leadership Cabinet. • Advance thought leadership and advocacy efforts by positioning the Council as a national voice in early childhood education and supporting the CEO in preparing for high-profile engagements. • Shape brand strategy and organizational messaging by maintaining a cohesive and credible brand for the CEO and the Council, ensuring consistency across all communication channels. • Strengthen internal collaboration by partnering with Communications, Program, Credentialing, and Executive Leadership teams to align external strategies with organizational priorities.

🎯 Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in external affairs, public relations, partnerships, government relations, organizational development, resource development, or strategic communications, ideally at a national or nonprofit organization. • A proven ability to cultivate and manage high-level relationships with government agencies, policymakers, funders, corporate partners, media, and national associations. • Experience advising and representing C-suite or senior executives, with sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion. • Exceptional written, verbal, and executive communication skills, including the ability to translate complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives. • Demonstrated success in media relations including messaging, press engagement, and navigating high-visibility communications. • A strong understanding of brand strategy, organizational messaging, and public positioning. • Ability to operate both strategically and tactically; comfortable setting vision while also managing execution. • A collaborative and solutions-oriented mindset, with the ability to work across departments and build consensus. • Strong project and relationship management skills, with experience balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. • Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree or JD preferred. • Experience or passion for early childhood education, education policy, or the social impact sector is highly desirable.

🏖️ Benefits

• Health benefits, including 90% employer-paid premiums and full deductible coverage for health plans • Comprehensive dental, vision, and life insurance • 403(b) retirement plan with a 10% employer contribution after one year • 16 weeks of parental leave after one year of employment • Health and dependent care FSA options • Generous paid time off, including 13 holidays, 15 vacation days, and 12 sick days • Robust professional development opportunities