Head of Communications & PR

The role

The Head of Communications & PR will own the company's story and communications strategy. You will manage media relations, build research-based thought leadership, and handle reputation and crisis communications.

What you will do

• Define and own communications strategy, core narrative and messaging architecture.
• Translate complex research into clear stories for non-technical audiences.
• Set annual and quarterly communications plans with measurable goals.
• Support policy and government affairs with communications for state agencies and legislators.
• Build and maintain relationships with education, technology, business and policy reporters.
• Lead announcements for product launches, research findings, partnerships, and funding.
• Manage PR agency partners, budget and press materials.
• Build the public profile of Amira through bylines, podcasts, and media interviews.
• Prepare stakeholders for interviews, panels and testimony.
• Own crisis management including student data privacy and AI safety.

Required qualifications

• 10+ years in communications, PR or journalism.
• 3+ years leading communications for a company, agency practice or mission-driven organization.
• Track record of earning top-tier coverage in national business, technology or education media.
• Experience building thought-leadership programs.
• Hands-on crisis management experience.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills.
• Ability to make research and technical ideas accurate, simple and compelling.
• Sound judgment, discretion and comfort advising executive leadership directly.
• A builder's mindset.
• Genuine belief that every child should learn to read and curiosity about how AI can help.

Nice to have

• Experience in K–12 education, edtech, literacy or education policy.
• Knowledge of the Science of Reading movement.
• Communications experience in AI or another emerging technology facing public debate.
• Experience building an online community, ambassador or advocacy program.
• Relationships with state education agencies, legislators or education coalitions.
• Experience supporting a company through fundraising, M&A or rapid growth.
• Spanish fluency, or experience reaching bilingual and Spanish-speaking families and educators.
• Familiarity with media monitoring, measurement and social listening tools.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company matching
• Flexible time off
• Stock option ownership
• Cutting-edge work
• The opportunity to help children around the world reach their full potential

About the company

Amira accelerates reading outcomes by delivering the science of reading and neuroscience to every student. The company is used by more than 2,500 school districts and state agencies.