The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

AIA will provide you with the opportunity to advocate for the value of architecture and give architects and design professionals the resources they need to do their best work. The collective voice of architects is essential and our work drives positive change through the power of design.

Each one of us at AIA is a leader committed to demonstrating our mission and values and designing a better future for our country and planet. Even in times of change, AIA’s values remain constant:

• We stand for equity and human rights
• We stand for architecture that strengthens our communities
• We stand for a sustainable future
• We stand for protecting communities from the impacts of climate change
• We stand for economic opportunity
• We stand for investing in the future
• We speak up, and policymakers listen

The American Institute of Architects, as part of the global community, is building a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the profession of architecture to create a better built environment for all. Achieving this vision has a direct impact on the relevance of the profession of architecture and the world's prosperity, health, and future.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Senior Director, Leadership Affairs, the Director is a member of the Executive Office's Leadership Affairs function and is responsible for developing and executing the strategic communications that shape how AIA's executive and volunteer leadership engages with members, the profession, and the public.

The Director serves as the primary communications advisor to AIA's CEO, President, Board of Directors, and senior volunteer leaders, ensuring their communications are clear, purposeful, and strategically aligned. This includes overseeing speeches, executive messaging, written communications, event presentations, and leadership-focused communication channels.

Working at the intersection of executive communications, leadership engagement, and organizational strategy, the Director translates complex institutional priorities into compelling narratives that strengthen leadership visibility, reinforce organizational goals, and advance AIA's mission. The role helps maintain a consistent and credible institutional voice across all leadership communications while fostering meaningful engagement with key stakeholders.

Job Duties

Executive & Leadership Communications Strategy

Content Development & Speechwriting

Speaking Engagements & Event Communications

Cross-Functional & Stakeholder Collaboration

Metrics & Continuous Improvement

Qualifications:

Supervisory Requirements - One direct report.

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred. Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in strategic communications, executive communications, or thought leadership, preferably within a professional association, nonprofit, or public affairs context.

What we offer

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that reflects our company values and workplace culture, including:

• Medical and dental
• 401(k)
• Flexibility
• Paid time off
• Parental Leave
• Flexible spending accounts
• Income protection- (Life Insurance Coverage up to 2x salary) & disability plans at no cost.
• Tuition and membership reimbursements
• AIA employees have access to a variety of other programs, including:
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their family members

Travel Requirements: Requires periodic travel, including attendance at the AIA Conference on Architecture, Board meetings, and other signature leadership events. Occasional additional domestic travel may be necessary.

Work Location: Hybrid from the Washington DC metro area only (DC, MD, VA)

States not listed are not eligible work locations

This position will periodically be required to be on-site at the AIA Headquarters in Washington D.C.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.