Frontwood Strategies is a boutique strategic communications and public affairs firm specializing in advocacy and nonprofit communications. Frontwood Strategies works at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, and politics — helping mission-driven organizations navigate complex landscapes and drive meaningful change. Our portfolio includes campaigns focused on education, health care, climate solutions, housing and economic mobility, and technology policy. We are hiring a ** Vice President to lead our Education practice.** This is a senior leadership role for a strategic communicator who is as comfortable setting direction as they are rolling up their sleeves — and who is energized by the chance to build something.
As VP of Education, you will serve as the lead strategist and day-to-day relationship manager for a portfolio of public charter school and education advocacy clients in the DC metro area and beyond. You will direct client strategy, manage and mentor junior staff and subcontractors, and play an active role in growing the practice through new business development. This role reports to firm leadership and is central to Frontwood's next chapter of growth.
Lead strategy and client relationships across the Education portfolio, serving as a trusted advisor to client contacts
Direct the development of communications plans, messaging frameworks, earned media campaigns, and digital content strategies
Manage and mentor practice team members, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth
Collaborate on new business development, including identifying leads, developing proposals, and expanding existing client relationships
Maintain and grow relationships with relevant journalists, advocacy partners, and sector stakeholders
Oversee quality and consistency of all client deliverables
Contribute to firm leadership, culture, and strategic direction
8 – 12 years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, journalism, or a closely related field
Deep content expertise in K–12 education or education policy, ideally in the DC context
Demonstrated success leading earned media campaigns and managing client relationships with relative independence
Strong writing and editing skills; ability to produce and review client-ready materials
Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to effectively reach different audiences
Exceptional judgment and ability to make decisions in a dynamic, fast paced environment with shifting priorities and tight deadlines
Experience leading and managing staff and/or contractors
Proven track record of new business development and growing client relationships
Crisis communications experience a plus
Must be based in the Washington, DC area with the ability to be on-site with clients and in the office multiple times per week