Job description
Job Title: Vice President, Communications
Department: Brand and Communications
Location: Remote
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: President
Salary: $190,000 - $210,000/ annually
About Illustrative Mathematics (IM)
IM is dedicated to creating a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics. As a problem-based curriculum developer, we foster equity and deep understanding in math education through high-quality materials and professional learning. Our collaborative and mission-driven environment supports innovative thinkers who are passionate about transforming math education.
Position Overview
In this executive role, you will define and drive IM’s brand identity, communications strategy, and storytelling framework to elevate our national presence and deepen our impact in the education sector. Reporting directly to the President and serving as a core member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), the VP, Communications will oversee a multidisciplinary team spanning brand strategy, content marketing, executive communications, public relations, and support internal communications. This is a high-impact role for a proven leader who thrives in dynamic environments, brings creative and strategic thinking, and is passionate about education equity and organizational storytelling.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Strategy and Executive Leadership
- Shape the long-term communications and brand vision that reflects IM’s mission, values, and growth goals.
- Serve as IM’s chief brand storyteller, ensuring cohesive, resonant messaging across all channels and departments.
- Translate research, policy shifts, and user needs into timely, strategic communications decisions.
- Partner with SLT to build a psychologically safe, inclusive workplace culture and promote cross-functional collaboration.
Brand and Communications Strategy
- Build and execute a comprehensive communications strategy for both internal and external audiences—including educators, policymakers, funders, partners, and staff.
- Ensure consistency in editorial voice, messaging, and visual identity across all materials, media, and platforms.
- Guide strategic communications related to media relations, public statements, thought leadership, and issues management.
- Lead internal communications to strengthen transparency, trust, and engagement across distributed teams.
Team Leadership and Departmental Management
- Recruit, develop, and mentor a high-performing, diverse team across communications, branding, and marketing functions.
- Set departmental goals and performance expectations that align with organizational priorities.
- Support team members through developmental 1:1s, coaching, professional learning opportunities, and feedback loops.
- Foster innovation and collaboration by modeling inclusive leadership practices.
Process Optimization and Cross-Functional Alignment
- Implement systems and processes to improve communications efficiency, impact, and alignment across IM.
- Ensure strong coordination between Communications and other departments to amplify messaging and strategic priorities.
- Establish metrics to evaluate the success of communication strategies and guide continuous improvement.
Resource and Financial Stewardship
- Develop and manage the department’s annual budget, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and ROI.
- Oversee vendor contracts, media buys, and technology investments that support communication objectives.
- Present reports, outcomes, and strategic recommendations to the President and SLT.
Qualifications & Skills
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 10 years of progressive leadership in marketing/communications with executive oversight experience.
- 8 years in senior leadership with a record of building and managing high-performing teams.
- Experience in nonprofit, education, or public interest sectors.
- Strong strategic planning, prioritization, and project management capabilities.
- Exceptional communication, writing, and public speaking skills.
- Demonstrated success in organizational storytelling, reputation management, and internal/external messaging.
- Experience working cross-functionally in high-growth or mission-driven organizations.
- Proven ability to drive change, navigate ambiguity, and inspire teams.
- Must reside in and be a citizen of the US.
Preferred:
- Experience leading communications in a fully-remote organization.
- Proficiency with Google Workspace, Slack, Asana, Notion, and Zoom.
- Familiarity with trends and best practices in equity-centered and inclusive communications.
What We Value at IM
At IM, we are committed to:
- Workplace Culture: Creating an atmosphere where everyone is represented and all voices are valued.
- Collaboration: Working together to solve complex problems and foster innovation.
- Continuous Learning: Encouraging personal and professional growth.
- Impact-Driven Work: Making a difference in math education through meaningful contributions.
Why Join IM?
- Supportive and mission-driven team culture.
- Collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.
- Remote work environment with flexible scheduling.
- Competitive salary and benefits package, including flexible PTO.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
How to Apply
To apply, submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and why you’re interested in this role at IM.
Illustrative Mathematics is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate identity representation and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Please complete all areas that are indicated as required (*) on the application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Illustrative Mathematics is an independent 501©(3) nonprofit organization and does not discriminate against any applicant, candidate, or staff member on the basis of actual or perceived ancestry, age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.
Applicant Workplace Posters
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired for employee roles will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
