SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

ABOUT SPARK SF PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Spark SF Public Schools was founded in 2015 as the official non-profit 501(c)3 organization in formal partnership with the San Francisco Unified School District to receive and mobilize philanthropic and community funds on behalf of the district. Our mission is to champion great public schools in San Francisco for all children to realize their brightest potential by advancing excellence in teaching and learning, uplifting equity and serving the whole child.

WHY JOIN US?

Purpose-Driven Work: Contribute to a mission that advances educational equity and excellence for all SFUSD students.
Impactful Role: Lead communications strategies that support transformative fundraising initiatives.
Collaborative Culture: Work with a dynamic, passionate team committed to continuous learning and growth.
Professional Growth: Opportunities for development in nonprofit communications, fundraising strategy, and stakeholder engagement.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

You are a creative communicator and strategic thinker, passionate about public education and equity. An excellent storyteller, you craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences through both visual media (including video, photos, infographics, PowerPoint presentations, and Canva documents) and engaging written content (such as email campaigns, social media posts, and video scripts). A social media dynamo, you know exactly what and when to post to create captivating stories. You are tech-savvy, skilled at leveraging data to drive successful digital campaigns, and adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously. Thriving in collaborative environments, you are driven by impact and deeply committed to supporting San Francisco’s public school communities by lifting the amazing stories of our students, teachers and schools.

Ideal Qualities:

Collaborative, resourceful, and adaptable
Skilled communicator and storyteller
Proactive problem-solver
Committed to equity and inclusion

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Senior Communications Manager plays a critical role in driving Spark’s communications strategy to support fundraising goals. This position manages internal and external communications, ensuring consistent messaging across platforms, engaging stakeholders, and elevating Spark’s visibility. Reporting to the CEO, you will create compelling visual and written content, oversee digital platforms, lead email and social media campaigns, drive greater visibility and engagement with Spark SF Public Schools and support donor engagement initiatives and events.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Communications Planning

Develop and implement communication plans aligned with SFUSD’s strategic initiatives.
Provide leadership and oversight to ensure organizational alignment with strategic communication goals and brand standards, fostering a cohesive identity that supports mission-driven impact and stakeholder engagement.
Identify key messages tailored to diverse audiences to boost engagement and visibility.
Evaluate communication effectiveness and refine strategies based on data insights.

Content Creation & Management

Craft engaging content across platforms: press releases, newsletters, funder reports, social media, presentations, and event collateral.
Maintain and update Spark and SFUSD fundraising websites.
Support grant writing and reporting through strategic storytelling and content creation.
Capture impact stories from SFUSD grantees for publications and donor stewardship.

Digital & Social Media Management

Lead Spark’s social media strategy, ensuring engaging and on-brand content.
Monitor digital engagement, leveraging data to inform content strategy.
Analyze social media, website and newsletter performance to optimize outreach efforts.

Stakeholder Engagement & Events

Foster relationships with community leaders, donors, alumni, SFUSD educators, SFUSD students/parents and partner organizations.
Organize and support key events, including Spark Salons, Spark’s annual gala and Superintendent’s 21st Century Scholarship Awards.
Prepare leadership talking points and support fundraising campaign communications.

Internal Communications

Develop internal communications, including newsletters and memos, to engage SFUSD staff.
Collaborate with the SFUSD Communications team to maximize cross-departmental opportunities.
Manage CRM tools for targeted communications and reporting.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications, public administration, or related field (substitution available for relevant experience).
Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in communications, public relations, or related fields.
Proven track record of developing and executing successful communications strategies.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
High degree of proficiency with generating visually compelling social media/digital communications content
Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including media, community partners, government entities, donors, and the public.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Preferred:

Master’s degree in communications, journalism, or related field (can substitute for one year of experience).
Experience in urban public school systems or educational nonprofits.

WHAT WE OFFER OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY & EQUITY

Salary Range: $90,000 to $110,000
Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision, 403b, flexible spending accounts, and paid vacation
Inclusive Environment: Equity-centered workplace that encourages bringing your whole self to work

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY & EQUITY

Spark SF Public Schools values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. Spark’s programs and activities are free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and bullying based on any protected characteristic or status.

JOIN US

Are you ready to use your communication talents to make a difference? Join Spark SF Public Schools and help build a brighter future for San Francisco’s students. Apply today and be part of a team committed to educational excellence and equity.

HOW TO APPLY

Submit your application, including:

Cover letter
Resume
Three professional references (must include direct supervisors)

Send applications to: Kianna Davis - davisk15@x.sfusd.edu

SPARK SF PUBLIC SCHOOLS

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Senior Communications Manager