Director, External Communications

The Director, External Communications will play a critical role in shaping and executing the company’s external communication and thought leadership strategy across the U.S. market. This position leads the development and delivery of external engagement efforts, ensuring alignment with the company’s operational and long-term strategic business objectives. The Director will oversee communication with key stakeholders—including policymakers, media, practitioners and educational institutions, and industry partners, and to elevate the CA brand and influence public and policy discourse (in collaboration with the Government Relations team) . This role is also responsible for crisis communication planning, reputation management, and establishing governance standards for consistent, impactful messaging across all audiences.  

The impact you'll have:

• External Relations Strategy Development: Develop and lead the execution of the U.S.-focused external relations strategy to enhance the company’s brand, reputation, and market presence in the U.S. education sector. Align strategy with broader company objectives and regional goals. Manage external agency partners in this work.  

• Media Relations & Public Affairs: Drive media relations strategies in the U.S., crafting compelling narratives and building relationships with journalists and media outlets that cover the US edtech and related industries. Respond to media inquiries and proactively secure media coverage to increase the company’s visibility.  

• Stakeholder Engagement: Develop and maintain relationships with key U.S. stakeholders, including school districts, higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and education-focused advocacy groups. Cultivate partnerships that advance the company’s mission and create new business opportunities.   

• Crisis Management & Reputation Protection: Oversee external communications during a crisis or reputational challenge. Ensure swift and effective communication strategies are implemented to protect the company’s image. Lead communications and responses to changes and events in the US educational landscape.  

• Thought Leadership & Advocacy: Refine and execute a thought leadership strategy focused on the U.S. education technology sector and promote edtech innovation through, participation in industry conferences, content creation (white papers, op-eds, webinars) and speaking engagements that align with the company’s vision.  

• Strategic Partnerships & Business Development: Identify and forge strategic partnerships with key players in the education technology ecosystem in the U.S. Work with internal teams to align external relations efforts with business development goals to maximize partnership opportunities.  

• Social Media: Oversee team responsible for strategy and management of brand accounts across multiple social channels lifting the presence of CA to customers and prospects.  

• Event Representation: Contribute to national event strategy and represent the company at key industry events, conferences, and roundtables. Ensure the company’s presence and messages are effectively delivered to diverse U.S. audiences, including educators, administrators, policymakers, and potential clients.  

• Internal Communications: Partner closely with the internal communications team to ensure internal and external strategies are aligned to strengthen employee engagement and ensure consistent messaging.  

• Government and Policy Relations: Partner with CA’s GR team to support the company’s communication efforts in engaging with U.S. federal, state, and local government agencies on education policy, regulations, and funding opportunities. Advocate for policies that support the company’s mission and interests, including building relationships with education-focused committees, and relevant agencies. Support the creation of clear plans to navigate the educational landscape rapidly evolving in the United States in close partnership with both the Government Relations and Strategy teams.   

• Performance Measurement & Reporting: Track and report on the effectiveness of external relations activities, including media coverage, stakeholder engagement, and public policy outcomes. Use data to refine strategies and improve outcomes for the company’s external engagement efforts in the U.S.  

What we're looking for:

• In-depth understanding of the U.S. education system, including K–12 and higher education, and key challenges in the edtech landscape.  

• Proven track record in managing media relations, and public affairs campaigns.  

• Strong ability to develop and execute strategies that influence public policy and enhance corporate reputation.  

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft and deliver compelling messages for diverse audiences.  

• Ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including educators, policymakers, industry leaders, and journalists.  

• Proven leadership and team development and management experience.  

• High level of political acumen, particularly in navigating complex policy and regulatory landscapes.  

Required Education and Experience:  

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, political science, business, or a related field. A master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MPA) is strongly preferred.  

• At least 10 years of experience in public relations, external communications, or government relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Experience in the U.S. education or education technology sectors is highly preferred. 

Pay Range – This role’s range is $110,500 - 196,5000. The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that Curriculum Associates considers in making compensation decisions based on our Compensation Philosophy. Actual base pay within that range will vary based upon several factors including, but not limited to, prior experience and relevant skill sets. At Curriculum Associates, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances for each case. This role is also eligible to participate in the company bonus plan. The Company recognizes that minimum wage varies by location and will ensure all  compensation decisions comply with applicable state and local laws. 

Benefits – Benefit eligible employees (and their families) are covered by medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees can enroll in our company’s 401k plan and receive an employer match. Employees have access to a flexible vacation and sick policy in addition to twelve paid holidays and a winter office closure between Christmas and New Year's, as well as a number of additional perks and benefits. 

Application deadline: June 26, 2026. This is subject to close earlier if there is a high volume of applicants or a qualified hire is made.