Director, Internal Communications

Job Scope:

Leads Sunward's employee engagement and storytelling strategy to connect all employees to Vision 2035. This role manages the internal communications team, oversees key messaging channels and events, and ensures clear, timely, and impactful communication across the credit union. The Director will partner closely with leadership at all levels to align communications with organizational priorities, foster an engaged workforce, and drive cultural alignment.

Essential Functions

• Lead the Internal Communications team to deliver high-quality messaging, engagement campaigns, and change communications across the organization.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive internal communications strategy that strengthens employee connection to Vision 2035.
• Oversee the content, strategy, and adoption of Sunward's intranet (Unity Hub), ensuring it is a central hub for information and engagement.
• Plan, manage, and execute enterprise-wide events including quarterly town halls, all-hands meetings, and an annual all-staff event—overseeing logistics, budget, and content to ensure meaningful employee engagement.
• Partner with executive leadership to craft clear, authentic executive messaging and communications that align employees with strategic priorities.
• Manage change communications planning for major initiatives, including technology launches, operational shifts, and organizational changes.
• Champion innovation by researching and integrating new communications tools and AI capabilities to enhance employee connection and understanding.
• Lead crisis communications protocols for internal audiences, ensuring timely, accurate information during emergencies.
• Drive employee engagement strategies and measure impact through engagement scores, feedback, and adoption metrics.
• Oversee employee brand activation efforts and swag programs to bring Sunward's brand to life across the organization.
• Manage and optimize the internal communications budget, ensuring resources deliver strong organizational impact.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to break down silos, align messaging, and foster a cohesive employee experience.

Job Requirements

Qualifications:

Experience and Education

• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive experience in internal communications, corporate communications, or organizational change.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams, budgets, and enterprise-wide communications strategies.
• Experience managing large-scale internal events, digital communications platforms (intranets, engagement tools, recognition, etc.), and brand activation initiatives.
• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or related field (master's or continued education preferred).

Leadership Competencies

• Connects team initiatives to broader organizational goals (e.g., Vision 2035); anticipates communications needs and proactively adjusts strategies to support change and engagement.
• Builds trust and alignment across all levels of leadership; navigates complex stakeholder environments to drive unified messaging and shared accountability.
• Fosters a high-performing, inclusive team culture; mentors and develops staff while managing performance, roles, and priorities aligned to departmental goals.
• Translates communications strategy into well-executed plans; oversees internal messaging channels, events, and digital tools to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery.
• Champions organizational culture and change through clear, purposeful communications; guides employees through transitions with empathy and clarity.

Knowledge

• Deep understanding of enterprise-wide internal communications strategies, storytelling, and alignment with organizational vision and culture.
• Proficient in internal communications technologies, including intranets, employee recognition systems, and engagement platforms.
• Knowledge of change communications principles, employee engagement drivers, and culture-building through messaging and events.
• Familiarity with tools and methods to evaluate communications effectiveness and drive data-informed improvements.

Skills/Abilities

• Strong written, verbal, and storytelling skills; ability to simplify complex information for diverse audiences.
• Ability to operationalize communications strategies into clear, actionable initiatives aligned with business goals.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and balance multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with leadership at all levels, influence decision-making, and drive alignment.
• Skilled in executing internal events that enhance employee engagement and leadership visibility.
• Skilled in interpreting engagement data, communications metrics, and employee feedback to continuously improve strategies and content effectiveness.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to occasionally lift or move items up to 15 pounds (e.g., event materials, laptop, presentation equipment).
• Visual and auditory ability to perform tasks such as reading, viewing a computer monitor, and participating in virtual or in-person meetings.
• Ability to travel occasionally for events, team meetings, or site visits as needed.
• Manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment (keyboard, mouse, phone, etc.).