Join the innovative team at the Virginia Association of Independent Schools as the Director of Communications and Program Logistics and play a key role in advancing excellence across Virginia’s independent education landscape. VAIS is the leading resource for independent education in the Commonwealth. Our 92 independent PK-12 schools rely on us for accreditation, advocacy, and professional learning programs that connect educators with experts and peers. 

Position Overview

VAIS seeks a Director of Communications and Program Logistics (DCPL). The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, possesses exceptional organizational skills, and is a strong, proactive communicator. In this dual-focus role, the DCPL will provide a vital link between VAIS and our member schools. 

Logistics & Program Execution: Ensure the optimal and high-quality delivery of all professional learning events, managing everything from vendor coordination and program promotion to registration and  day-of logistics. 

Community & Promotional Communications: Produce and distribute clear, engaging content across our website, email communications, and social media channels to build community, promote the value of our services, and tell the story of independent education in Virginia.

Essential Responsibilities

• Engaging constituents with VAIS through effective communication design and distribution across all platforms.
• Securing program logistics (e.g. room set-up, AV, catering) at lowest cost and highest quality.
• Preparing program materials and supporting participant registration.
• Attending programs and ensuring program logistics are executed.
• Supporting the Director of Professional Learning to analyze program feedback and attendance to support continuous improvement.
• Overseeing website updates, improvements, design, and functioning.
• Maintaining an accurate database of member schools, their employees, and supporters.

Working closely with the small staff of VAIS requires a collaborative approach and flexibility to take on additional responsibilities as needed. We work both in a well-appointed office in Richmond, Virginia and remotely as scheduled. Occasional overnight and out-of-area travel may be required for programs. Training specific to website and marketing design may be supported as needed.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Highly detail-oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to high professional and ethical standards.
• Event or project management experience.
• Communication experience.
• Personable, responsive, and service-oriented.
• A creative, flexible, and consummate team player.
• Understanding of and appreciation for independent education.
• Familiarity with Canva, Google Workspace, Wordpress, and web-based databases.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graphic design experience.
• Familiarity with social media platforms.
• Experience with photography and videography.
• Willingness to engage in training to stay current on functions related to this position.

NOTE:  APPLICATIONS THROUGH THIS WEBSITE WILL NOT BE REVIEWED. TO APPLY, Provide the following by email to vaiscareers@gmail.com.

1. Résumé.
2. Two writing samples that demonstrate your ability to communicate to different audiences:
1. Design a social media campaign to boost attendance at a conference for business officers.
2. Write a letter to a college career placement office encouraging them to have students consider teaching positions in VAIS schools.
3. A list of references with contact information who can speak directly to skills identified in the job description (both communications and logistics).
4. Optional: A digital portfolio or examples of creative work (social media, newsletters, print materials, etc.).

About VAIS

The Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS), a non-profit, voluntary membership association of 92 accredited and candidate schools, is the leader in advancing and advocating for independent education in Virginia. Guided by core values of independence, excellence, and community, VAIS offers services in accreditation, professional learning, and advocacy.

Connections working at VAIS