Director, External Affairs
Ford FoundationNew York, New York, United States
Posted April 7, 2026
232000 - 240000 USD
Full Time
About the Company
The Ford Foundation is a global, grant-making philanthropy that works to disrupt inequality in all its forms. We believe in the inherent dignity of all people. But around the world, too many people are excluded from the political, economic, and social institutions that shape their lives. In addressing this reality, we are guided by a vision of social justice—a world in which all individuals, communities, and peoples work toward the protection and full expression of their human rights; are active participants in the decisions that affect them; share equitably in the knowledge, wealth, and resources of society; and are free to achieve their full potential. Across eight decades, our mission has been to reduce poverty and injustice, strengthen democratic values, promote international cooperation, and advance human achievement. We work in 11 regional offices around the world and support programs in more than 50 countries.
Job Description
The Director of External Affairs will be responsible for managing and coordinating activities concerned with risk prevention, issues management, crisis response, and U.S government affairs. The Director will work collaboratively with the Office of the President, Office of Legal Services and Office of Communications and members of the Executive Leadership Team in all areas of mutual interest.
Requirements
- 10+ years experience at a senior level in public relations, public affairs, media, government, or a related field
- Deep experience in political communications, government, public affairs, and crisis management
- Strong background in stakeholder coordination and real-time reputational risk mitigation
- Excellent communication skills: a strong writer, editor, and presenter of ideas
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment and to organize multiple and varied priorities
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package designed for your well-being and work-life needs
- Generous time off, including personal, vacation, sick, extended holiday time off, and wellness days
- Generous parental leave policy, including birth, surrogacy, adoptive, foster parents, and resources for backup child and elder care
- Comprehensive retirement benefits options (with employee and employer contributions of up to 13%)
