Description

Progress Michigan’s mission is to provide a strong credible voice that holds public officials and government accountable, assists in the promotion of progressive ideas and uses cutting-edge digital media strategies to creatively build grassroots support for progressive issues. We're a marketing department for progressive ideas - a campaign that never stops. 

We are looking for a Digital and New Media Communications Director to lead the organization’s digital strategy and channel execution to advance narrative priorities. This role is responsible for shaping and executing communications that amplify Progress Michigan’s research, policy advocacy, and campaigns, while strengthening the organization’s brand, digital presence, and influence across Michigan.

The Digital and New Media Communications Director will translate complex policy and research into compelling, accessible content for policymakers, media, partners, and the public. This role is central to building our new media presence, digital campaigns, a key part of our rapid response, and coordination across research, communications, messaging and leadership. 

Responsibilities include:

Strategic Communications & Narrative Leadership

• Work closely with communications team to deliver on a communications strategy aligned with organizational priorities
• Develop and execute a digital strategy aligned with organizational priorities
• Advise the Executive Director and leadership on messaging, tone, and new media strategy
• Work closely with the research team to translate policy research into accessible messaging
• Digital Strategy & Content Development
• Lead digital strategy across website, email, social media, and emerging platforms
• Work closely with Creative Director on creation of digital content including graphics, videos, social copy, newsletters, and web content, working closely with our creative team
• Manage digital campaigns that support policy advocacy, research releases, and partner efforts
• Track and analyze digital engagement metrics to inform strategy

Team Leadership & Vendor Management

• Supervise communications and digital staff, fellows, interns, and consultants
• Manage relationships with external vendors (designers, videographers, creators)
• Oversee communications budgets and timelines
• Building Creator-based and new media strategies
• Establish relationships with and strategy for engaging creators
• Create new media content and strategy for Progress Michigan and our partners
• Adjust strategy based on data, feedback, and organizational priorities

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, political science, marketing, or related field
• Minimum 7–10 years of experience in communications, digital strategy, or media relations
• Proven experience leading digital campaigns and earned media efforts
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills
• Experience translating complex policy or research into public-facing content
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing content creators for high-impression and visibility campaigns
• Experience working in advocacy, political, or policy-focused nonprofit organizations
• Familiarity with Michigan politics, public policy, and media landscape
• Experience with email platforms, content management systems, and social analytics tools