SENIOR DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Employment Type: Full-time
Location: Administration Office (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Department: Advancement
Hours: 40 hours per week
Status: Salaried/Exempt
Compensation: $80,000 annually

ABOUT US

BGCWPA is a mission-based organization that hires employees that are recognized as leaders in their field with a passion for improving young lives. We have strong values, embrace diversity and offer great benefits which allows our employees to maintain work/life balance. BGCWPA is one of the largest, most comprehensive out-of-school-time providers in the region, annually serving over 10,500 youth from Allegheny, Beaver and Somerset County in preschool, before/afterschool, summer camp, teen mentoring, workforce development, STEAM, and sports programs. An affiliate of a national organization-Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania, we celebrate and support what makes people different. For the benefit of our youth, our families, and our communities, BGCWPA is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that intentionally hires, trains, and supports staff that are representative of the many communities we serve. We are committed to hiring diverse and talented folks regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity and veteran status.

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Director of External Affairs is responsible for shaping and executing the public presence of Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) across government, media, and community sectors. This highly strategic role strengthens BGCWPA’s visibility, influence, and funding by advancing key relationships with public officials, press, community coalitions, and strategic partners.
Reporting to the Vice President of Advancement and supervising the Marketing Coordinator, the Director will lead government relations, public affairs, media strategy, and high-level marketing initiatives, while collaborating across departments to ensure external communications align with the organization’s mission and strategic goals. This role is ideal for a seasoned, results-oriented communicator and relationship builder who thrives at the intersection of policy, media, and mission-driven work.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs, Political Science, Communications, Journalism, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 5–7+ years of experience in external affairs, public relations, government relations, or nonprofit advocacy.
• Proven ability to influence policy, secure public funding, and build strong government and media relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including media training and public speaking.
• Deep understanding of government structures, public policy, and nonprofit funding landscapes.
• Strong political acumen, emotional intelligence, and cultural competency.
• Passion for youth development, education equity, and community empowerment.
• Based at BGCWPA’s Administration Office in Pittsburgh, with regular travel to Clubhouses, community events, and legislative meetings.
• Occasional evening and weekend availability required. Hybrid/flexible work schedule negotiable based on performance and needs.