Senior Manager: Communications & Resource Development

Reports to: Executive Director

Salary Range: $90,000 to $110,000

Position Type: Exempt, Full Time and non-union position

The Senior Manager: Communications and Resource Development acts as a key strategic partner to the Executive Director. This position leads external facing functions, aligning advocacy, media, communications, public relations with the organization’s goals. The Senior Manager collaborates with department directors, COO, Board and staff on external relations and advocacy to impact public policy on housing, homelessness, equitable development and social change. 

This position will lead the narrative and presence of the organization across all platforms and drive advocacy, campaigns, media relations, and community engagement. The role provides critical support for resource development including fundraising, events, the annual gala, and donor cultivation. The Senior Manager supervises staff and consultants.

A strong passion for housing and homelessness issues and addressing needs of underserved communities is essential for this position. The ideal candidate should be able to collaborate effectively with other nonprofit organizations, government agencies, neighborhood communities, and elected officials to increase and improve resources for addressing housing and homelessness. 

Responsibilities: 

• Partner with the Executive Director to define and execute the organization’s public voice and strategic messaging. 

• Collaborate with the COO and department directors to ensure departmental successes are translated into compelling external narratives.

• Work with the grant manager and increase donor and funding prospects, research and identify potential foundation and corporate funders to expand donor base.

• Direct the organization’s media relations strategy and act as a primary point of contact for the press, produce press releases and outreach information.

• Oversee social media, work with other staff to ensure messaging and content is effective and aligned with advocacy goals. 

• Work with staff and manage the creation of all public-facing materials, including annual reports, website content, and digital campaigns. 

• Ensure all external communications reflect a commitment to social justice and cultural diversity.

• Lead the advocacy team in monitoring federal, state, and local policies impacting low-income housing and homelessness. 

• Represent the organization in public settings, including testimony before elected officials and participation in regional coalitions.

• Build and maintain relationships with government partners, stakeholders, and community leaders to advance the organization’s mission.

• Provide strategic support for the annual gala, including procurement assistance, theme development, and guest engagement.

• Cultivate relationships with key donors and corporate partners to broaden LIHI’s funding base.

• Foster a clean and safe environment. 

• Engage with assigned training and comply with training deadlines.

• Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and follow PPE protocols, if applicable.

• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, urban studies, public policy, social work, or a related field.

• Five years of experience in high-level communications, community organizing, or public affairs, preferably within the affordable housing sector.

• Demonstrated ability to work across departments and influence senior leadership.

• Exceptional writing and public speaking skills with the ability to communicate complex policy issues to a general audience.

• Passion for and knowledge of affordable housing, homeless programs, equitable development, housing finance, public policy and government programs. 

• Evidenced commitment to an interdepartmental, interdisciplinary team approach to work; strong collaboration and conflict resolution skills. Able to manage multiple mission-driven programs within a large nonprofit setting.

• Maintain a high level of ethical conduct regarding confidentiality, boundaries, and professional stature. 

• Proven track record in managing social media strategy and media relations.

• Proven ability to supervise staff and manage consultants. 

• Strong alignment with the mission of providing affordable housing and ending homelessness.

• Ability to work flexible hours for events, including evenings and weekends.

Other Requirements:

• Must have a valid Washington State driver’s license and must meet Washington State minimum requirement for driver liability insurance.

• Must pass motor vehicle/driving record checks

• Must have regular access to a reliable vehicle. Mileage is provided for travel between sites during shift

• Must pass criminal background checks and drug screening

Benefits for this position (pro-rated for part time employees)

• Generous vacation and sick leave

• 10 paid holidays and 1 floating holiday

• Employer-Paid Medical, Dental, and Vision (with HRA, HSA & FSA options)

• Employer-Paid Life and AD&D Insurance 

• 401k offered for unionized employees (through OPEIU8)

• 403b offered for non-union employees

• Employee Assistance Program

• Travel Assistance Program

• Aflac offered for all employees.

About us:

The Low Income Housing Institute (LIHI) has a 30-year history and track record of owning and managing low-income housing; developing innovative solutions to homelessness; advocating for housing justice; providing supportive services; and operating hygiene services for homeless people at our Urban Rest Stops. LIHI staff have developed over 5,000 affordable housing units and manages over 3,000 units including rental housing, permanent supportive housing and transitional housing. The populations served include: families, singles, seniors, veterans, young adults, immigrants, low wage workers, and people living with physical and mental disabilities. LIHI is one of the largest nonprofit housing organizations in the state. Our properties are located in Seattle, King County, and five adjacent counties. LIHI is a national leader in sponsoring tiny house villages as a crisis solution to homelessness. Annually, the tiny house villages and shelters serve 2,000 homeless people and our hygiene programs serve over 8,000 homeless people. LIHI staff is collaborative, dynamic, and dedicated to taking bold steps in ending homelessness and creating supportive communities for people to thrive. #hp