Lead Communication Strategist

Join the CESO team

At CESO, we partner with schools and education organizations to strengthen their communication strategies and build meaningful connections with their communities. We're looking for a Lead Communication Strategist who thrives on both leading and doing the work – someone who develops the strategy, owns the client relationship and carries projects from big idea to fully implemented.

This role is ideal for a seasoned school communicator who is a trusted voice in the room with superintendents and communication directors.

What You’ll Do

Lead Communication Strategists at CESO serve as the go-to advisors for their clients and key contributors on our internal team, moving between big-picture strategy and hands-on tactics each day. You’ll manage complex projects, turn big ideas into plans that get results, work closely with our internal team and roll up your sleeves to help school districts communicate effectively.

You’ll also spend some of your time on business development, helping CESO grow by deepening client relationships, spotting new opportunities and supporting proposals and pitches. Along the way, you’ll share what you know and help us keep improving how we work together.

Responsibilities

Client Strategy & Leadership Advisory

• Serve as a trusted advisor to clients, building long-term relationships based on strategy, trust and results
• See the big picture, distill it into action, and guide clients through complex communication challenges
• Manage complex, multi-faceted projects and coordinate with internal teams to guide work from strategy to concept to execution
• Bring a strong foundation in school communications to every engagement and approach work through a strategy-first lens

Business Development & Growth

• Identify opportunities to grow relationships and create impact for school districts
• Identify potential new leads and support proposals and pitches
• Occasionally represent CESO Communications at events or conferences
• Contribute to shaping and supporting CESO Communications' continued growth

Team Collaboration & Mentorship

• Provide perspective, feedback and problem-solving support to colleagues
• Model clear and honest communication, accountability and creativity while helping others build those skills
• Bring ideas for how we can improve the way we work, lead internal efforts and help move our team forward

Project Management & Execution

• Manage a variety of tasks and assignments across multiple clients while keeping projects organized and on track
• Prioritize incoming assignments, remain flexible and adjust to changing client needs
• Collaborate virtually with colleagues and clients while maintaining accountability and meeting deadlines
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Who You Are

Strategic, client-centered leader: You can see the big picture, distill it into action, and build long-term relationships based on strategy, trust and results.

Mentor and collaborator: You're someone colleagues turn to for perspective, feedback and problem-solving. You model clear communication, accountability and creativity.

Business-minded: You're always thinking about how to grow relationships and create impact for school districts.

School communications expert: You have a strong foundation in school communications and approach your work through a strategy-first lens. Bonus points for experience in marketing, video, photography, website design or other specialties.

Organized and adaptable: You can juggle multiple clients, prioritize competing assignments and shift gears quickly while staying accountable to your team and meeting deadlines.

Thrive in a remote environment: You have the time management, organizational skills and self-motivation to stay productive, motivated and connected while balancing autonomy with virtual collaboration.

Education & Qualifications

• Ten or more years of related professional experience in communications, with preference for a school communications background
• Four-year degree in a related field (communications, journalism, public relations, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to write clear, concise and engaging content across a variety of platforms
• Knowledge of copywriting, editing and proofreading standards, including AP Style
• Ability to relate to and communicate effectively with people of different cultural, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds
• Self-motivated to effectively work remotely
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Strong organizational and project management skills and attention to detail
• Collaborative style and ability to maintain professionalism under stressful situations
• Ability to work on multiple projects at the same time
• Ability to use virtual platforms to connect with colleagues and clients
• Must successfully complete a background and reference check

Perks & Benefits

Salary Range: $90,000-$99,000 depending on experience

As a full-time employee, you will have access to the following benefits:

Health, dental, and disability insurance

401(k) with company contributions

Flexible schedule

Paid time off + paid holidays

Location: Remote

We’re Better Together.

At CESO, we believe great communication starts with strong relationships, collaboration and trust. As a Lead Communication Strategist, you'll help school districts strengthen their communication strategies, support and mentor colleagues, and contribute to the continued growth of CESO Communications while working alongside a team that values creativity, accountability and meaningful impact.