We are guided by the Gates family’s deeply held belief: that all lives have equal value. Our goal is to find solutions for people with the most urgent needs, wherever they live.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization: The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. It offers an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various communities. The foundation is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.
Job Overview: As a senior communications leader, the Director of Internal Communications will be responsible for defining and implementing a comprehensive internal communications strategy that is human-centered and aligns with the foundation's mission and values. This role is crucial during a significant period of organizational transformation as the foundation aims for closure in 204
The Director will work closely with the Chief Communications Officer and the Executive Leadership Team to ensure that communication is clear, empathetic, and purposeful throughout the transition. The position requires a skilled storyteller who can navigate complex situations with transparency and care, motivating employees and uniting them around the foundation's impact and legacy.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Set the Vision and Strategy: Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive internal communications strategy that connects employees globally to the foundation’s mission, priorities, and values.
Strengthen Leadership Communications: Advise the CEO, Chief of Staff, Executive Leadership Team, and senior leaders on communication strategies that enhance authenticity, empathy, and effectiveness during times of change.
Shape the Foundation’s Internal Narrative: Define and steward a cohesive, inspiring internal story that reinforces optimism, trust, and alignment with the foundation’s enduring mission and values.
Drive Engagement and Connection: Design and deliver high-impact internal moments, such as the Annual Employee Meeting and all-staff engagements that build belonging, celebrate impact, and strengthen our shared culture.
Lead a Global Team: Oversee and empower a talented global internal communications team responsible for editorial strategy, leadership communications, employee storytelling, and enterprise-wide events and initiatives.
Enhance Channels and Systems: Ensure internal communications channels are dynamic, inclusive, and responsive to employees’ needs, facilitating open dialogue and continuous learning.
Support Change and Transformation: Partner with the Office of the CEO, the People function, and the Foundation Strategy Office to deliver clear, coordinated communications around key initiatives, leadership forums, and organizational change.
Foster Alignment Across Audiences: Ensure coherence between internal and external narratives by collaborating across the Communications Division and with key stakeholders who oversee partner engagement.
Build Leadership Capability: Develop frameworks, tools, and training that strengthen communication skills across all levels of leadership. 1
Leverage Insight and Impact: Use data, employee feedback, and organizational insight to measure and enhance communication effectiveness, continuously adapting approaches as the foundation evolves. 1
Ability to travel up to 30% domestically and globally as needed.
15+ years of senior-level experience in internal or employee communications within large, complex, and global organizations.
Proven success in leading communications strategies that drive engagement, cultural alignment, and organizational transformation.
Expertise in translating complex strategies or change processes into clear, inspiring, and actionable narratives.
Demonstrated experience in coaching and advising senior executives on leadership communications, change management, culture communications, and employee engagement.
Exceptional storytelling, writing, and editorial judgment skills with the ability to adapt tone and style for diverse audiences and leaders.
Experience leading and developing global communications teams and managing multiple priorities with diplomacy and clarity.
Deep understanding of enterprise and employee communications best practices, including how to build trust and resilience during uncertainty.
High emotional intelligence, integrity, and cultural sensitivity; able to foster belonging and optimism in a mission-driven, time-bound organization.
Educational Background: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Communications, Organizational Development, Public Relations, Business Administration, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage internal communications and engage with diverse audiences.
Experience: The position requires a minimum of 15 years of senior-level experience in internal or employee communications, particularly within large, complex, and global organizations. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading communications strategies that foster engagement, cultural alignment, and facilitate organizational transformation. This extensive experience is crucial for navigating the complexities of communication in a mission-driven organization.
Languages: While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the global nature of the organization. Additional languages may be beneficial, particularly those relevant to the foundation's areas of operation, to enhance communication with diverse employee populations.
Additional Notes: The salary range for this role is between $261,700 to $405,700 USD, with higher ranges for positions based in Seattle and Washington D.C. The organization recognizes market differences in these locations, with salaries typically falling between the range minimum and midpoint based on the candidate’s skills and experience. The hiring process includes a standard background check, and accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities. The foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants.
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