Director of Communications

ApplyBoard simplifies the study abroad search, application, and acceptance process by connecting international students, recruitment partners, and educational institutions on one intuitive and personalized platform. ApplyBoard is a mission-driven, hyper-growth organization. It has been attracting dedicated individuals for more than eight years who are inspired every day to break down barriers to international education and take their careers to new heights at a company that will invest in their career growth. Our six core values are our compass in our mission to Educate the World and the foundation of our unique company culture. As an organization built on a foundation of diversity, it’s important that our team members are representative of the students from more than 150 countries that we support.

Reporting to the Chief Marketing Officer, we are looking for a Director of Communications to develop and implement a comprehensive global communication strategy. This results-oriented leader will build and grow our brand reputation, drive awareness and engage key audiences including customers, industry, investors and media.

Location: This is a remote position, with some travel required to Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario at certain times of the year, with some international travel for specific events.

What will you do:

Communication Strategy:

1. Develop and implement a strategic communication plan aligned with the company's vision, mission, and values, ensuring social media plays a key role in amplifying key messages.
2. Define key messages and positioning to effectively communicate the company's story, products, and innovations across internal, external, and social media channels.
3. Identify opportunities to differentiate the company in the market and enhance brand reputation through strategic use of traditional and social media platforms.

Media Relations:

1. Serve as the primary spokesperson for the company, building and maintaining relationships with media outlets, journalists, industry influencers, and social media influencers.
2. Develop and execute media relations strategies to secure positive coverage, both in traditional media and across social media platforms, while managing crisis communications when necessary.
3. Prepare executives and subject matter experts for media interviews, social media appearances, and speaking engagements.

Internal Communication:

1. Develop and execute priority internal communication strategies to engage and align employees with company goals, values, and initiatives, incorporating social media for internal storytelling when appropriate.
2. Oversee the development of internal communication channels, including newsletters, intranet, town hall meetings, and internal social media platforms (e.g., Yammer, Slack).
3. Foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and feedback within the organization, using both traditional and digital/social channels.

External Communication:

1. Lead the development of external communication materials, including press releases, blog posts, social media content, and website copy, ensuring a consistent and engaging social media presence.
2. Manage the company's online presence and digital communication channels, including social media platforms, ensuring consistency of messaging, brand voice, and timely engagement with audiences.
3. Identify and leverage opportunities for thought leadership and speaking engagements at industry events, and utilize social media to extend reach and engagement with key audiences.

Investor Relations:

1. Partner with the executive team to develop and execute investor relations strategies, including earnings calls, investor presentations, and shareholder communications, ensuring key messages are also communicated via social media channels when appropriate.
2. Serve as the primary point of contact for investors and analysts, providing timely and accurate information about the company's performance and strategy, while utilizing social media to share public-facing updates with transparency.

Leadership:

1. Manage, mentor, and inspire the team to achieve their goals and contribute to the business, fostering a social media-savvy culture and ensuring the team remains engaged with evolving digital communication trends.
2. Play a leadership role within the Marketing Team by contributing to building a high-performance team renowned for accountability, executional excellence, business impact, teamwork, and innovative use of social media.

What do you need to succeed:

1. 12+ years proven experience in corporate communications, public relations, or related roles, with a track record of success in building and protecting brand reputation.
2. Experience working in fast paced, high growth tech industry or at a startup.
3. Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field.
4. Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team of communication professionals.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and messages for diverse audiences.
6. Strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset, able to identify opportunities and drive initiatives that align with business objectives.
7. Familiarity with communication tools, platforms, and metrics for measuring effectiveness.

Why you’ll want to work here:

1. Help change the lives of millions of international students hoping to study abroad.
2. Drive business priorities with high accountability.
3. Work directly with the CEO, CMO and the rest of the C-suite team and a broad range of senior stakeholders.
4. Be appreciated: Your success will be recognized and appreciated.
5. Enjoy: Inclusive, flexible, and fun workplace.
6. Opportunity for career growth and development.
7. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
8. Flexible work arrangements and the ability to work from anywhere.
9. Personal Spending Account (PSA) Program.
10. Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) for mental health and wellness support.
11. Company perks, including exclusive discounts and special pricing for memberships.
12. Milestone celebrations and recognition of achievements.

Interested applicants can submit their resume to: https://caldwell.thriveapp.ly/job/1125

About ApplyBoard

ApplyBoard empowers students around the world to access the best education. With more than 1,000,000 students from over 150 countries helped with their journey in less than a decade, we are just getting started.

ApplyBoard’s 1,200 global team members in 30 countries assist students and our 1,500 partner institutions by empowering the international student sector with innovative technology and insights. As a five-time consecutive Deloitte Fast 50 and Fast 500 ranked company, ApplyBoard is growing and scaling like few other companies. On top of our strong growth, our people are growing personally and professionally. ApplyBoard India was Great Place to Work Institute (India) certified for outstanding employee experience and workplace culture.

Thank you for your interest in joining the ApplyBoard Team and being part of our mission to Educate the World. While we are lucky to attract a high level of interest in each of our roles, only qualified applicants will be contacted and selected for an interview.

ApplyBoard welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates in all aspects of the hiring and selection process.