Head of Communications, AJC

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) is one of the most storied brands in journalism, with a legacy that stretches over a century. Our mission is to be the most essential and engaging source of news for the people of Atlanta, Georgia, and the South, and our vision is to transform this great institution into a modern media company.
That's where you come in.
The AJC is seeking a Head of Communications to lead the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with the organization's mission, vision, and values. This role will shape and elevate the AJC's brand narrative, drive earned media and public relations efforts and strengthen executive visibility. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Head of Communications will serve as a trusted advisor to the President & Publisher and Editor in Chief, helping to advance the AJC's voice across local and national audiences.
Please note, this role is based in Atlanta, GA.
Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a comprehensive communications strategy tied to AJC's brand, editorial priorities, and business objectives.

• Drive earned media coverage in local and national markets to further business priorities.

• Grow brand awareness, in support of customer acquisition and digital subscriber growth strategies.

• Build and maintain relationships with media, influencers, and community partners, coordinating interviews and speaking opportunities.

• Manage public representation of AJC talent and leadership, supporting their external visibility and conveying internal priorities through strategic messaging.

• Serve as a brand ambassador at local events and initiatives, strengthening AJC's role in the community.

• Lead executive communications for the President & Publisher and Editor in Chief, including speechwriting, internal updates, and public engagement prep.

• Guide and execute crisis communication plans in partnership with the leadership team, ensuring values-based and timely responses.

• Set, monitor, and report on Communications team goals and KPIs, driving performance and alignment with business impact.

• Track and analyze communications performance metrics and ROI, generating actionable insights and continuous improvement recommendations.

• Develop and maintain community partnerships, aligned to the AJC's broader communications objectives.

• Advise and collaborate with Cox Enterprises Corporate Communications, aligning on enterprise messaging and opportunities to elevate AJC's impact.

• Lead and mentor the communications team, ensuring clarity of roles, performance expectations, and professional development.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree and at least 12+ years of professional journalism experience with at least 7 years experience in a leadership role, or Master's degree with 10+ years, or PhD with 7+ years, or at least 16 years of relevant experience without a degree.

• Proven experience leading earned media and public relations strategy in a fast-paced or high-profile organization.

• Demonstrated success managing executive communications, including speechwriting, talking points, and internal messaging.

• Strong writing and editorial judgment, with the ability to craft messages for varied audiences and across multiple channels.

• Experience navigating crisis communications and reputational risk in alignment with company values.

• Prior experience managing and developing communications teams, with a track record of setting and delivering on performance goals.

• Experience tracking communications ROI and effectiveness metrics, using data to optimize campaigns.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience advising senior leaders or C-suite executives in high-stakes environments.

• Proficiency in tools such as media monitoring platforms and analytics dashboards.

The responsibilities above describe the general nature and level of work performed and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.
USD 175,300.00 - 292,100.00
Compensation:
Compensation includes a base salary of $175,300.00 - $292,100.00. The base salary may vary within the anticipated base pay range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities. Position may be eligible for additional compensation that may include an incentive program.
Benefits:
The Company offers eligible employees the flexibility to take as much vacation with pay as they deem consistent with their duties, the company's needs, and its obligations; seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year; and up to 160 hours of paid wellness annually for their own wellness or that of family members. Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.
Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship.