Duties / Expectations:
Director of Communications & Outreach
Zion National Park Forever Project
83 South 2600 West, Hurricane, UT 84737
$81,838.78 - $151,986.30 a year - Full-time
Skills
Written communication
(Required)
Public speaking
(Required)
Public relations
(Required)
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Do you have experience in Written communication?
Education
Bachelor's degree
(Required)
Do you have a Bachelor's degree?
Benefits
Referral program
401(k)
Health insurance
401(k) matching
Paid time off
Employee discount
Vision insurance
Full job description
Position Type: Regular full time (exempt)
Reports to: CEO
Location: Hurricane, Utah/Zion National Park
Pay Grade: 10
The Director of Communications serves as the chief spokesperson and media strategist for Zion Forever Project, amplifying the voice and visibility of the CEO. This role drives public narrative, manages external communications, and ensures that the organization’s leadership and mission are effectively represented in media, donor, and community contexts. Acting as a trusted advisor to the CEO, this individual enables the CEO to focus on strategic fundraising and partnership cultivation by managing messaging, shaping perception, and fostering relationships that strengthen Zion Forever’s public presence
WHO WE ARE
Zion National Park Forever Project (ZFP), a leader in non-profit public lands partnerships, believes that our employees are our greatest strength. As such, we are seeking a full-time Director of Communications who is committed to our mission as the non-profit partner of Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks, and Pipe Spring National Monuments and providing our staff members with an exceptional brand experience. From the moment of hire, we want our employees to engage in the mission of ZFP and understand the value of each person's contribution to this important work.
The Forever Project’s headquarters are in Zion National Park. The Director position is located in the philanthropy office in Hurricane, UT.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
The Director of Communications is responsible for the following:
STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP & EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION—40%
Serve as primary communications advisor to the CEO, shaping and executing strategies that position Zion Forever as a national leader in conservation philanthropy.
Partner closely with the CEO to craft speeches, talking points, presentations, and other communications that elevate the organization’s leadership and extend its reach with donors, media, and partners.
In partnership with the Senior Executive Assistant, monitor and manage the CEO’s external communications calendar, ensuring each engagement aligns with organizational visibility and fundraising priorities.
Anticipate issues, trends, and opportunities affecting Zion Forever’s reputation, advising the CEO on messaging approaches and risk mitigation.
Lead integrated communications planning across departments to align development, marketing, and program messaging.
Direct the performance of internal and external creative and communications partners to maintain quality, brand consistency, and timeliness.
Develop and monitor the communications budget, measuring impact through data-driven metrics and adjusting strategies as needed.
PUBLIC RELATIONS & REPRESENTATION –35%
Serve as the organization’s primary spokesperson, representing Zion Forever and the CEO in media interactions, community engagements, and public forums.
Build, manage, and deepen relationships with journalists, editors, influencers, and public affairs professionals to proactively secure coverage.
Develop and lead media strategies that highlight organizational leadership, donor impact, and conservation outcomes.
Manage all press materials including releases, briefings, editorial placements, and crisis responses, ensuring strategic alignment with organizational goals.
Prepare the CEO and other leaders for interviews, panels, and public appearances with detailed backgrounders and message frameworks.
Oversee the production of external communications including newsletters, impact reports, digital campaigns, and social content that reinforce key narratives.
Guide vendors, consultants, and internal staff in executing communications plans with consistency and professionalism.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT—25%
Partner with the CEO and Development team to strengthen relationships with donors, community leaders, and government partners, ensuring consistent and persuasive messaging.
Represent Zion Forever at community and industry events, serving as a visible ambassador for the mission and leadership.
Lead outreach strategies that expand the organization’s influence and visibility in the conservation, philanthropy, and public lands communities.
Collaborate with the Development team to integrate storytelling into donor engagement, campaigns, and events, amplifying the CEO’s fundraising capacity.
Coordinate cross-functional communications efforts with staff and external agencies to support brand alignment, stakeholder engagement, and strategic initiatives.
Evaluate communication outcomes and continuously refine strategies to deepen public awareness and donor commitment.
KEYS TO SUCCESS (THE MUST-HAVES)
To be successful in this job, you will excel in these areas:
Hard skills:
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