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- Tasks: Lead a team to develop impactful communications strategies and manage media relations.
- Company: Join Open Society Foundations, dedicated to promoting democracy and human rights globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work arrangements, generous time off, and comprehensive health insurance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in global advocacy while growing your skills in a diverse environment.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education and experience in international communications or journalism required.
- Other info: Open to diverse backgrounds; we value unique perspectives and experiences.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Associate Director, Global. London. Posting Date: 07/09/2025. Deadline: 07/15/2025
Role Title: Associate Director, Global
Contract Type: Regular
Reporting To: Director, Geographic Communications
Program/Department/Unit Name: Programs
Location: Communications
Team Name: Geographic Communications
The department focuses on campaigning, media outreach, content development and messaging, creative and digital strategy, and internal communications to support the Open Society network worldwide.
Role Purpose
The Associate Director will be responsible for the development and implementation of communications and media strategies that position key Open Society Foundations’ messages, people, and grantees on our communications channels covering Global thematic, advocacy and priorities. As needed, this role will also support our national foundations in Europe
Key responsibilities
As an Associate Director for Geographic Communications at Open Society, you will:
- Lead a small team of Communications Officers to develop and manage the implementation of communications strategies, key messages, and tactics for advancing our priorities in the geographies assigned to you and globally
- Draft speeches, talking points, op-eds, press releases, social content, and other communications materials
- Design communications strategies and workplans to elevate Open Society’s work with the international media, advising leadership, programs, advancing advocacy goals, and national foundations on communications and media opportunities or challenges.
- Manage media relationships and partnerships with top-tier global media, securing high profile media opportunities for Open Society leadership and spokespeople.
- Coordinate and support Open Society’s communications outreach at international events and summits, including UNGA, COP, IMF/WB Spring Meetings, and G20.
- Design and lead communications and media trainings for Open Society leadership, staff, and grantees.
- Identify possible communications challenges or risks and develops comprehensive strategies to mitigate them.
- Coach teams to innovate and strengthen communications skills.
- Manage projects, external consultants, and relevant budgets.
Key internal relationships
Managing Directors’ offices; Communications and Advocacy teams; Geographic Leads and Policy Groups; Opportunity teams; and Grantees; Executive Offices; National Foundations; Global Advocates
Key external relationships
Media Partners and Trainers; Journalists and Editors; and Public Relations firms
The ideal candidate
- Educated to a degree-level (or equivalent)
- Prior career progression managing external communications in the international not-for-profit, public, or private sectors, or as a journalist
- People management experience preferably with cross-border and cross-regional teams (both projects and direct teams)
- Experience working with multilateral processes and bodies
- Proven track record of effective reputation management
- Expertise within our priority areas of human rights, democratic practice, equity and justice
- Comprehensive, specialized knowledge of communications tactics and media relations
- Experience developing and managing global and geographic communications strategies and campaigns in support of advocacy objectives
- Ability to manage multiple stakeholders, interests, complex political and cultural factors, and management of long- and short-term goals
- Experience acting as spokesperson for government official or another high-profile speaker
- Excellent project management skills
- Proven success at managing effective communications in high stakes and/or crisis situations
- Strong understanding of cultural differences and the proven ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds within a complex organization
- Excellent English-language writing and editing ability, as well as verbal skills. Working knowledge of written and spoken Arabic preferred.
What we offer
- Exceptional opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact; from a generous annual professional development allowance for every employee to onsite training and learning conversations with visiting experts.
- Excellent benefits and perks to promote well-being and a healthy work-life balance, including:
- Generous time off, as well as our standard Open Society close at year-end (where vacation days are not required) and flexible work arrangements.
- Employer-paid health insurance and dental plans for individuals and families (no employee contribution required).
- Exceptional retirement savings plan (non-contributory for employees) and life insurance.
- Progressive paid parental leave, reproductive and family planning support, and much more.
- A commitment to nurturing a diverse and inclusive workplace, so you can bring your whole self to work and make a positive impact.
Who we are
Open Society Foundations aim to establish vibrant and inclusive democracies where governments are accountable to their citizens. Our operating model organizes grant making around specific, time-limited projects, developed alongside support for established partners, enabling us to respond swiftly to emerging needs. We are committed to promoting human dignity, equality, and rights; reimagining democratic ideals and practice; and advancing equity in governance systems.
Guided by our founder’s values and the belief in the art of the possible, we engage directly with global entities, individuals, and policymakers through grants, advocacy, impact investing, and strategic human rights litigation to drive positive change. At the heart of our mission is a deep commitment to rights, equity, and justice, inspiring every action we take.
Additional information
Open Society Foundations is committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We actively seek applications from talented individuals across all backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. Each candidate is evaluated solely on their unique qualifications without regard to race, age, sex, religion, ethnic origin, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, or any other legally protected characteristics.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities.
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Associate Director, Global employer: OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS.
Contact Detail:
OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, Global
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the communications field, especially those who have experience in international not-for-profit organisations. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about their experiences.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the key themes and priorities of Open Society Foundations. Understanding their mission and current projects will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing media relationships and communications strategies. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex political environments or handled crisis communications.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of cultural differences and your ability to work with diverse teams. Highlight any previous experience you have in cross-border communications or working with international stakeholders.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, Global
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in communications, media strategies, and team management. Use specific examples that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the mission of Open Society Foundations. Discuss how your background in international communications and advocacy aligns with their goals, and mention any relevant projects you've led.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since excellent writing is crucial for this role, include samples of your previous work such as speeches, press releases, or op-eds. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and creatively.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Emphasise your experience in managing teams and projects, especially in cross-border contexts. Provide examples of how you've coached others and led successful communications initiatives.
How to prepare for a job interview at OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before the interview, take some time to research Open Society Foundations and their mission. Familiarise yourself with their key priorities, especially in human rights and democratic practices, as this will help you align your answers with their values.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As the role involves drafting speeches and managing media relationships, be prepared to demonstrate your communication skills. You might be asked to provide examples of past work or even draft a short piece during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle high-stakes situations or crises. Think of specific examples from your past experience where you successfully managed communications challenges and be ready to discuss your approach.
✨Highlight Your People Management Experience
Since the role involves leading a team, be ready to discuss your experience in managing cross-border teams. Share examples of how you've coached others and fostered collaboration among diverse groups.
