Director of Communications and Engagement

About the Role: 

As RBTC's Director of Communications and Engagement, you will work closely with our Executive Director and manage consultants to develop and execute our portfolio-wide communications and public relations strategy to connect innovators with resources while attracting new talent, partnerships, and investment. You will also be instrumental in promoting success stories, strengthening the region's voice in technology policy and innovation discussions, and showcasing measurable regional impact.

This position offers significant growth opportunities for an experienced communications professional passionate about regional economic development and mission-driven work. The role requires regular travel throughout Southwest Virginia and occasional out-of-region travel for conferences, events, partnerships, and lobbying.

What You'll Do:

Strategic Communications & Portfolio Branding

• Develop and execute a portfolio-wide communications strategy including RBIA, RBTC, RAMP, and CWA ensuring consistent messaging and brand alignment
• Serve as the primary voice of the Council, implementing an annual integrated communications plan and end-of-year report aligned with strategic goals and regional economic development initiatives
• Provide strategic counsel to the Executive Director and Board of Directors on brand positioning, messaging strategy, and communications approaches for thought leadership initiatives, including leading communications for board presentations, annual planning, and stakeholder engagement initiatives

Member Relations & Storytelling

• Engage with members, RAMP alumni, and partners to cultivate and strengthen relationships, and source and tell compelling stories that showcase regional innovation impact and elevate the Council.
• Manage partnership communications and stewardship supporting strategic relationships with corporate sponsors, government stakeholders, and academic institutions

Communications & Media Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with regional and national media to secure media coverage for regional achievements
• Draft and distribute press releases and respond to media requests regarding portfolio initiatives, member achievements, and program outcomes
• Develop and execute communications campaigns that showcase member value proposition and support membership growth objectives
• Support policy communications efforts in coordination with lobbyists

Digital Strategy & Content Creation

• Create strategic content showcasing program impact and regional economic development outcomes that elevate Roanoke-Blacksburg’s innovation profile
• Oversee digital communications including website content, social media strategy, and email marketing
• Produce high-quality content including newsletters, annual reports, membership materials, and event collateral

Event Marketing & Support

• Lead communications strategy for signature events including TechNite, Emerging Technology Conference, and RAMP programming
• Develop event scripts, talking points, and on-site digital content to enhance the attendee experience

Consultant & Vendor Management

• Oversee external communications and marketing, providing strategic direction and managing deliverables
• Collaborate with sponsors and vendors to ensure effective brand integration and communication alignment

What You Need:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field
• 5-8 years of communications or PR experience with increasing strategic responsibilities
• Experience with membership organizations, trade associations, or technology sector highly preferred
• Strong storytelling ability to translate complex tech topics into compelling narratives for diverse audiences
• Excellent relationship-building and engagement skills across members, partners, media, and stakeholders
• Proficiency with communications tools, websites, CRM systems, and digital marketing platforms
• Public speaking experience and comfort representing organizations at regional and industry events
• Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously in fast-paced environments

Nice-to-Haves:

• Familiarity with Virginia’s technology landscape and economic development priorities
• Experience managing contractors, consultants, or external agencies
• Understanding of startup ecosystems, venture capital, or economic development
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite or similar design tools
• Experience with policy communications or advocacy work

Location: Residing in or willing to relocate to the Roanoke-Blacksburg, VA region required

Compensation: Our target new hire base salary range for this role is $80,000 – $90,000 annually, commensurate with experience

Benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees includes

• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• Retirement stipend
• Paid time off
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional development opportunities

Statement of Non-Discrimination: RBTC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.