Smile Train · 5 days ago
Vice President Communications
NYC Metro Area
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
$150K/yr - $180K/yr
10+ years expSmile Train is the world’s leading cleft focused organization, aiming to transform the lives of individuals impacted by cleft lip or palate. The Vice President of Communications will lead the organization’s communications strategy, enhance its global voice, and inspire philanthropic engagement through storytelling and strategic direction.
CharityChildrenCommunitiesNon Profit
Hiring Manager
VIVIAN LEWIS
Responsibilities
Develop a deep understanding of Smile Train’s vision, purpose, and strategic priorities to ensure alignment in all communications efforts
Support fundraising initiatives and amplify programmatic impacts
Design and implement a communications strategy that effectively supports Smile Train’s organizational goals and amplifies its impact
Serve as a leader and spokesperson for Smile Train, representing the organization across various platforms and engagements
Strengthen and evolve Smile Train’s brand to highlight its sustainable model in cleft care and far-reaching global impact
Ensure seamless integration of strategic communications across all key audiences, including donors and supporters, programmatic partners, global stakeholders, and Smile Train’s internal team and global Boards
Lead and inspire a high-performing global Communications team across public and media relations, social media, editorial, creative, content strategy, and organizational and internal communications
Recruit, develop, and retain top talent while fostering continuous growth and innovation
Build a culture of collaboration, mutual respect, ownership, transparency, and accountability
Empower team members with clear direction, resources, and autonomy to excel
Set and manage clear goals and metrics aligned with Smile Train’s strategic priorities
Drive operational excellence through efficient, transparent systems and workflows
Strengthen cross-department team collaboration with Fundraising, Programs, and Operations
Address team and departmental challenges promptly and fairly, maintaining morale and alignment with Smile Train’s values, encouraging a one organization mindset
Model integrity, ownership, and results-driven leadership that advances organizational purpose
Communicate openly and take ownership to build trust, clarity, and alignment across teams
Recognize success and deliver constructive, empathetic feedback to promote and create team and organizational oneness
Refine and elevate Smile Train’s global brand identity through powerful storytelling that deepens awareness, credibility, and philanthropic engagement
Lead integrated, results-driven communications in close partnership with Smile Train’s Development team to craft compelling narratives that inspire giving and strengthen donor and supporter connections
Build strong, collaborative relationships across departments and global teams to ensure consistent messaging and shared success
Oversee the strategic alignment of digital, media, and content initiatives that advance Smile Train’s purpose and visibility
Optimize storytelling across programs and regions, ensuring communications assets are effectively leveraged to engage stakeholders worldwide
Champion innovation and creativity in content, campaigns, and media strategy to amplify Smile Train’s global voice and influence
Develop and ensure the execution of effective communication and media relations strategies
Conduct ongoing media outreach to the press to generate awareness and publish timely news through press release development, media pitches, media alerts, op-eds, etc
Oversee public relations strategy and media vendor partnerships, ensuring agencies and align with Smile Train’s goals, brand voice, and strategic priorities
Oversee social media content, campaigns, and strategy to enhance engagement, grow reach, and strengthen Smile Train’s brand presence across all platforms
The Vice President will serve as a key thought leader and strategic voice for Smile Train—translating our purpose, expertise, and global impact into compelling narratives that shape industry conversations and inspire philanthropic partnership
Elevate Smile Train’s visibility and influence through clear, authentic communication that positions the organization as the definitive authority in comprehensive cleft care and global health innovation
Guide the development of thought leadership content, speeches, and public engagements for senior executives, this role will ensure Smile Train’s story resonates across diverse audiences—from global partners to media to donors
Serve as a visible and respected global ambassador for Smile Train
Lead the development of high-impact communications campaigns that drive press coverage, social awareness, and programmatic and fundraising success
Foster opportunities for stakeholders to engage and share feedback, ensuring consistent integration of diverse perspectives into communications strategies
Qualification
Required
Ten years or more of significant experience in global communications leadership, ideally in a non-profit or public health context, but not mandatory
Proven ability to create and execute comprehensive, impact-driven communications strategies
Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Demonstrated success in expanding and strengthening an organization's brand on a global scale
Must have led teams of five or more communication professionals
Advanced facilitation skills for collaboration across diverse teams and audiences
International experience
Experience in team leadership roles, such as VP, SVP, Head of CCO, etc
Must demonstrate a track record of the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and staff at all levels
Passion for Smile Train's purpose and values
Strategic thinker with a balance of big-picture vision and detail-oriented execution
An inclusive leader with strong emotional intelligence, political savvy, and negotiation skills
Bachelor's degree required
Preferred
Experience living and working in an international context is a plus
Advanced degree preferred
Benefits
Comprehensive health, pharmacy, dental, and vision coverage
403(b) retirement plan with employer match
Generous PTO allotment, holidays, and sick time
Paid parental leave and family care benefits so you can focus on what matters most
Annual professional development stipend to keep your skills growing
Hybrid work flexibility out of our conveniently located Midtown Manhattan office
Opportunities for domestic and international travel to work with international colleagues and programs, and see our impact in action
Company
Smile Train
Smile Train is a nonprofit organization and charity providing corrective surgery for children with cleft lips and palates.
51-200 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Ashley Ochs
Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel
Elyse Taub
Chief Development Officer
Recent News
2025-12-09
2025-09-25
2025-07-22
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