Description
Kansas United for Impartial Courts (KUIC) is a statewide coalition of organizations and concerned citizens working to defeat a constitutional amendment on the August 2026 ballot that would eliminate merit selection for Kansas Supreme Court justices and replace it with partisan elections. KUIC seeks to run a campaign that not only leads to victory, but also builds durable grassroots power and organizing infrastructure statewide.
KUIC is seeking a Communications Director to lead the campaign’s earned media, rapid response, and public messaging efforts. The Communications Director will serve as the campaign’s primary press lead, oversee day-to-day media relations, and manage the campaign’s social media manager. This role will work closely with the Campaign Manager to ensure that all public communications reinforce a clear, disciplined narrative aligned with campaign strategy.
This position reports directly to the Campaign Manager.
Requirements
Core Responsibilities
Communications Strategy & Message Discipline
Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy in partnership with the Campaign Manager and consultant team.
Ensure all public-facing messaging is accurate, consistent, values-driven, and aligned with campaign goals.
Work closely with campaign leadership to anticipate and prepare for high-risk or high-visibility communications scenarios.
Earned Media & Press Relations
Serve as the campaign’s primary press contact, responding to media inquiries in a timely and strategic manner.
Build and maintain strong relationships with Kansas-based reporters, editorial boards, and relevant national media.
Identify and secure earned media opportunities that advance the campaign’s narrative and reach key audiences.
Draft and distribute press materials including press releases, advisories, statements, talking points, and background memos.
Digital & Social Media Oversight
Manage and supervise a Social Media Manager, setting clear goals, expectations, and content priorities.
Ensure social media content reinforces earned media narratives and overall campaign messaging.
Coordinate digital messaging with press, field, and coalition efforts to maximize impact.
Campaign Integration & Coordination
Collaborate closely with the Field Director, coalition partners, and consultants to align communications with on-the-ground campaign activity.
Participate in regular campaign meetings and contribute to strategic planning and decision-making.
Provide messaging guidance and materials to campaign staff, coalition partners, and spokespeople as needed.
Serve as a campaign spokesperson as needed, and work with leadership to identify and prepare other appropriate spokespeople.
Required Qualifications
At least one full cycle of campaign or issue-based communications experience, preferably in a press or communications role.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write clearly under tight deadlines.
Strong judgment and ability to prioritize competing demands in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
Commitment to democratic values, civic institutions, and respectful public discourse.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience leading earned media for a statewide campaign or ballot initiative.
Familiarity with Kansas media markets and political landscape.
Experience managing staff or contractors.
Ability to communicate complex policy or legal issues to non-expert audiences.
The position is full-time and based in Kansas. The salary for this position is $8,000 plus a health care stipend per month. The final date of employment will be 8/31/2026.
Please submit a resume and cover letter with the subject line “KUIC Communications Director” to leo@kuic.org. Applications must include a cover letter to be reviewed. Initial review will begin March 2, 2026 and the position will be open until filled. Applicants will be considered on a rolling basis with a likely start date in March 2026.
