Director of Strategic Communications - BEAM Circular

About BEAM Circular: 

BEAM Circular is unlocking the power of communities to transform waste into opportunity by building a vibrant regional ecosystem for the circular bioeconomy in California’s agricultural heartland. Anchored in the North San Joaquin Valley, we are facilitating collaboration through the BioEconomy, Agriculture, & Manufacturing (BEAM) Initiative to scale the most promising innovations in bioindustrial manufacturing. Our work includes public-private projects and programs in the areas of innovation, access to capital, infrastructure, talent development, and cross-cutting partnerships to advance economic and environmental value for local communities.

We have a dynamic, mission-driven team and are looking for partners to join us who believe in rolling up their sleeves to contribute to a bold vision, who are results-oriented and “get things done” mentality, who lead with curiosity, collaboration, and kindness, and who are dedicated to positive impact for people and the planet.

BEAM Circular is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourages individuals identifying with any race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, national origin, and abilities to apply.

Position Summary:  

Are you a dynamic and results-driven communications professional with a passion for sustainability and innovation? BEAM is seeking a strategic thinker to join our team and help elevate our mission within the bioeconomy and circular economy sectors.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact by shaping and amplifying BEAM’s voice across diverse audiences. You will play a key role in developing and executing communication strategies that highlight our commitment to sustainable solutions, cutting-edge industries, and a circular future.

Essential Functions:  

Marketing and Communications Oversight

• Develop and implement comprehensive marketing and communications strategies to promote BEAM Circular’s mission, programs, and initiatives on national and international platforms.
• Manage and oversee external communications contracts, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and effective delivery of services.
• Lead the creation of high-quality content for a variety of platforms, including social media, newsletters, press releases, and the BEAM website.

Content Creation

• Develop compelling web copy and marketing collateral to effectively communicate the BEAM Circular’s mission and initiatives.
• Write and distribute newsletters, thought leadership articles and press releases to reach target audiences

Public Relations and Media Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships with media outlets locally, nationally, and internationally to secure coverage for BEAM’s initiatives and events.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media kits, and other PR materials to enhance BEAM’s visibility and influence.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and coordinate interviews and public appearances for BEAM leadership.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Support outreach to prospective businesses, donors/grantors, and partners, tailoring messaging to effectively engage diverse audiences.
• Leverage existing networks and establish new connections in the Central Valley, Silicon Valley, and beyond to amplify BEAM’s presence and impact.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external contractors to align messaging and ensure a consistent voice across all communications.

Internal Communications Support

• Provide guidance and support for internal communication needs, including staff updates, program announcements, and organizational messaging.
• Develop and manage an editorial calendar to streamline content creation and distribution.

Measurement and Reporting

• Track and analyze the effectiveness of marketing and communications efforts, providing regular reports and insights to leadership.
• Recommend adjustments to strategies based on data and feedback to optimize impact.

General BEAM Circular Team Collaboration

• Present a positive view of the BEAM Circular to the community.
• May drive on company business. 
• Comply with all BEAM Circular policies and procedures, including but not limited to workplace safety, reporting work-related injuries, Infection Control, and preventing potential safety risks for staff, clients, and others.
• The list of job duties and requirements is not all-inclusive. Management, at its discretion, may assign additional duties.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to create compelling content tailored to various audiences and platforms.
• Ability to build and leverage networks in California’s Central Valley, Silicon Valley, and beyond.
• Experience overseeing external contractors or vendors, ensuring successful project delivery.
• Proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms, including social media, email marketing, and website management.
• Strong interpersonal and project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven experience in creating content tailored to diverse business audiences, a plus.
• Experience creating newsletters, thought leadership articles, and social media content to drive engagement
• Experience in communications within nonprofit, policy, or advocacy organizations, preferred.
• Familiarity with working with regional, national, and international media outlets, a plus.
• Economic development experience, a plus.
• Knowledge of the bioeconomy, circular economy, or agriculture and manufacturing sectors is highly desirable.
• Experience with graphic design or multimedia content creation is an asset.

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in marketing, communications, or public relations, with a focus on national and international campaigns.
• Proven experience in managing PR campaigns and securing media coverage across multiple regions.

Working Conditions:

• Indoors in a typical office environment approximately ninety-five percent (95%) of the time.
• Frequent computer use at the workstation for up to eight hours.  
• Frequently work at a fast pace with unscheduled interruptions.
• May occasionally move (walk or drive) from one work location to another.
• Ability to walk, sit, stand, stoop, crouch, and climb stairs.
• Ability to move and lift up to 20 pounds.
• Visual Acuity (Far/Near).
• Regular and Consistent Attendance.

Benefits

What We Offer: 

• Salary range is $110,000 to $120,000, with a competitive benefits package.  Pay based on experience. 
• An opportunity to shape public policy at the intersection of innovation and sustainability.
• A collaborative and mission-driven work environment.
• Position based in Modesto, CA. Hybrid work arrangements permitted.

ADA/FEHA:  BEAM Circular will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act.

EEO:  BEAM Circular is an equal-opportunity employer. All aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.