Chief Strategic Communications Officer

About the Role

First 5 Alameda County seeks a visionary and strategic Chief Strategic Communications Officer (CSCO) to lead transformative communications, policy advocacy, and stakeholder engagement efforts. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the CSCO is a dynamic leader and trusted thought partner who will articulate and amplify our mission, vision, and systemic impact through powerful storytelling and influential advocacy. This pivotal role will shape how we communicate our organizational priorities, mobilize diverse communities, influence critical policy outcomes, and strategically position First 5 Alameda County at local, state, and national levels.

Joining the organization at a time of unprecedented growth and opportunity, the CSCO will be instrumental in architecting and implementing comprehensive communications strategies that drive lasting, transformative change within early childhood systems.

Why Join First 5 Alameda?

This is a unique and compelling opportunity for a purpose-driven leader who thrives in dynamic and politically complex environments. As the CSCO, you will:

• Play a pivotal role in influencing transformative policies and practices that significantly impact early childhood and family outcomes.
• Engage deeply in meaningful, outcomes driven, cross-cultural work within one of the nation’s most diverse counties, driving initiatives with lasting impact.
• Collaborate closely with executive leadership, community stakeholders, and policymakers to strategically shape narratives and catalyze systemic change.
• Join a highly respected, innovative, and rapidly evolving organization, providing opportunities for profound professional growth and impactful leadership.

Primary Responsibilities

Strategic Communications Leadership

• Develop and execute comprehensive, integrated strategic communications plans aligned with organizational vision and goals.
• Lead compelling storytelling efforts that translate complex data and policy into powerful, persuasive messaging for diverse audiences.
• Advise on and manage strategic political and crisis communications, ensuring rapid and effective responses.

Policy Advocacy & Political Influence

• Provide high-level strategic counsel and advocacy to advance political, legislative and policy priorities.
• Represent the agency effectively in legislative hearings, policy roundtables, advocacy coalitions, and critical stakeholder engagements.
• Cultivate influential relationships with elected officials, policymakers, community leaders, and media.

Operational & Team Management

• Direct, mentor, and build the capacity of internal communications and policy teams, contractors, and external vendors.
• Establish clear structures, priorities, project management practices, and accountability measures to enhance team effectiveness and operational excellence.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

• Develop strategies and lead efforts to engage and influence funders, strategic partners, and community stakeholders.
• Represent and elevate First 5 Alameda County’s voice in cross-agency collaborations, national convenings, and philanthropic initiatives.

Strategic Organizational Change

• Align and lead internal and external communications to support significant organizational growth, transitions, and impact driven system changes.
• Foster clear, transparent internal communication practices to build staff cohesion and engagement during periods of change.

Key Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years progressive leadership experience in strategic communications, public policy advocacy, government relations, journalism, or related fields.
• Exceptional analytical, persuasive writing and public speaking abilities; skilled in translating complex information into clear narratives.
• Demonstrated political acumen, proven ability to navigate complex political landscapes effectively.
• Proven track record managing multidisciplinary teams, contractors, and external consultants.
• Familiarity with Alameda County’s political, communication, and community landscape preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred, advanced degree highly preferred in Communications, Public Policy, or a related field; substantial relevant senior-level experience in strategic leadership, policy advocacy, or communications may be substituted in lieu of formal education.

Who You Are

• Strategic thinker with exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Highly adaptable, comfortable with ambiguity and dynamic environments.
• Emotionally intelligent and culturally competent with excellent interpersonal and influencing skills.
• Politically astute, demonstrating sound judgment, maturity, and discretion.
• Passionate advocate committed to access, justice, and systemic impact.

Logistics & Practical Considerations

• Location & Travel: Hybrid role; regular travel within Alameda County, occasional regional travel.
• Schedule: Occasional attendance required at evening/weekend meetings and events.
• Compensation: Base salary range of $186,000 to $267,000 plus robust benefits package, including health care, retirement, professional development, and flexible work arrangements.

First 5 Alameda County is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion across our organization.

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About Brightmode Talent

This search is supported by Brightmode. Brightmode is part of Orchestra, the first communications company built for today’s media landscape. Since 2022, it’s acquired nine firms, including: BerlinRosen, Civitas Public Affairs Group, Derris, Glen Echo Group, Inkhouse, M18, Message Lab, Onward and Small Girls PR. Learn more at: www.orchestraco.com.

Note: Candidates who apply to this role will be added to our candidate pool and may be considered for current and/or future similar positions. By providing your information, you are consenting to allow us to keep your information on file and to contact you regarding job opportunities, recruitment events and other related updates.