Planned Parenthood Action Oregon (PPAO) is hiring a Director of Communications to lead external communications strategy across our organization and partner affiliates.
Planned Parenthood Action Oregon (PPAO) is the advocacy and political arm of Planned Parenthood, working to protect and expand access to reproductive health care through public policy, organizing, and community engagement. This role is part of the PPAO team and is supported by Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette (PPCW) and Planned Parenthood of Southwestern Oregon (PPSO).
Shape the narrative. Guide leadership. Drive communications strategy during critical moments.
In this role, you’ll lead earned media and external communications across PPAO, Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette (PPCW), and Planned Parenthood of Southwestern Oregon (PPSO)—ensuring messaging is clear, aligned, and responsive in a complex and fast-moving environment.
About the Role
The Director of Communications is a senior leadership role responsible for external communications strategy, media relations, and message development across multiple entities.
You will serve as a strategic communications advisor to the Executive Director and senior leadership—providing guidance during high-impact, time-sensitive, and politically complex moments.
This role requires the ability to navigate and align communications across organizations with distinct legal and operational structures, while maintaining message clarity, discipline, and impact.
What You’ll Do
In this role, you’ll lead communications strategy from planning through execution.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading earned media strategy and securing coverage at local, regional, and national levels
Serving as a primary point of contact for media inquiries and overseeing timely, accurate responses
Drafting press releases, statements, op-eds, talking points, and leadership messaging
Developing message frameworks and advising leadership on communications strategy
Supporting rapid response efforts during legislative, political, or high-profile moments
Building and maintaining relationships with media outlets, reporters, and partners
Coordinating messaging across PPAO, PPCW, and PPSO to ensure alignment and appropriate separation of C3 and C4 communications
Managing communications workflows, timelines, and external vendors or consultants
Schedule & Location
This is a hybrid position based in Portland, Oregon, with a primary worksite at the Flanagan Regional Service Center (FRSC).
On-site at least 2 days per week (Tuesdays + one additional day)
Remaining days may be worked remotely (or on-site if preferred)
Standard schedule is Monday–Friday
Evening and weekend work required as needed during key moments
What We’re Looking For
We know great candidates come from a variety of backgrounds. If you’re excited about this role, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t meet every qualification.
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Two years' full-time experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or a related field
Demonstrated success securing earned media and managing press relationships
Strong writing and editing skills across formats (press releases, talking points, messaging)
Experience advising senior or executive leadership on communications strategy
Understanding of advocacy, nonprofit, or political communications, including navigating C3/C4 distinctions
Strong collaboration and communication skills across teams and stakeholders
Nice to Have:
Familiarity with Oregon’s political environment and media landscape
Experience in reproductive health, healthcare, or social justice advocacy
Experience supporting communications during legislative sessions, ballot initiatives, or campaigns
Experience managing consultants or vendors
Pay & Benefits
$102,259 – $148,972 annually. Pay is based on experience and internal equity.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, stability, and growth:
Paid time off (up to 4 weeks, increases over time)
9 paid holidays
Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees
403(b) with employer match
Free, confidential counseling and support (EAP)
Ongoing professional development