Director Head of Communications, HopSkipDrive
$180-200k
+ equity stock options
More information about location
Safe youth transportation solution
Open for applications
Safe youth transportation solution
501-1000 employees
Open for applications
$180-200k
+ equity stock options
More information about location
501-1000 employees
Company mission
To create opportunity for all through mobility.
Role
Who you are
- 10-12+ years of communications experience, with a tenure in the technology sector
- A comprehensive understanding of the media landscape and a proven track record in securing top-tier and local earned media and building strong press relationships
- Demonstrated, expert-level experience in both policy and crisis communications is a must
- Proven experience leading and developing a high-performing communications team and managing PR agencies
- Exceptionally strong writing, organization, and communication skills, with the ability to distill complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives
- A team-player attitude with the ability to work independently, influence stakeholders, and manage complex issues effectively
- A passion for HopSkipDrive's mission to create opportunity for all through mobility
What the job involves
- You are a strategic, results-driven communications leader who thrives on the news and loves creating nuanced, objective-based messaging
- You have a comprehensive understanding of the earned media landscape and a passion for shaping narratives
- You are a natural leader and a team player, eager to roll up your sleeves to get the job done
- You approach your work with drive, ownership, and empathy, and excel in ambiguous, fast-paced environments where you can cut through the noise and provide clear strategic recommendations
- You have deep experience in the technology sector and are an expert in navigating complex policy, safety, and corporate situations
- Set the Strategy: Develop and oversee the company's comprehensive communications strategy, leading all earned media, managing corporate messaging, and strategic initiatives
- Own the Narrative: Plan and execute proactive and reactive communications campaigns designed to raise HopSkipDrive’s profile, secure earned media, and shape understanding of the company among key audiences
- Lead in Crisis: Serve as a primary media contact and own the company's crisis communications function, including developing scenario plans, drafting statements, and briefing reporters on sensitive policy, safety, and corporate topics
- Build the Foundation: Create and manage a strategic messaging framework, and draft all foundational communications materials, including talking points, press releases, op-eds, and key messaging for company announcements
- Drive Execution: Lead the PR and communications strategy for all company announcements, coordinating cross-functionally with marketing, policy, safety, and leadership teams
- Navigate Complexity: Shape understanding of our legislative and regulatory priorities through strategic communications, working in close partnership with the Government Affairs team
- Build Your Team: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing communications team
Our take
Across the US, school transportation is under pressure as driver shortages, budget cuts, and rigid bus routes are making it harder for students to get to school safely and on time. This has opened the door for smaller vehicles and ride-hailing services to step in and support those students who don't fit neatly into traditional routes. HopSkipDrive has grown within this space, offering a flexible alternative that helps schools fill these gaps.
HopSkipDrive connects children with carefully vetted caregivers (often grandparents, nurses or childcare processionals) who then provide reliable rides when buses or public transport falls short. Operating in 17 states and supporting over 10,000 schools, the services has certainly eased commutes for many families.
And now the company is focsued on strenghtening its impact with technology and innovation. With its RouteWise AI platform it helps districts cut costs, improve efficiency and manage driver shortages, all while new safety modules and AI-driven planning tools continue to raise industry standards. With these advancements and a growing network of partners, the company is ready to keep shaping a more flexible futur for school transportation.
Freddie
Company Specialist at Welcome to the Jungle
Insights
23% employee growth in 12 months
Company
Funding (last 2 of 7 rounds)
Sep 2022
$37m
SERIES D
Aug 2021
$25m
SERIES C
Total funding: $107m
Company benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Health Spending Account
- Mental Health Resources
- Employee Assistance Program
- Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Paid Parental Leave
- 401K Plan
- Company Ownership/Equity
- Medical & Dependent Care FSA
- Travel Insurance
- Supplemental Legal
- Fully Remote Work Option
- Flexible Time Off
- 11 Annual Paid Holidays
- Week Closure at End of Year
- Sick Time Off for You and Family
- Home Internet Reimbursement
- Professional Development & Learning Stipend
- Remote & In-Person Quarterly Team Events
- Internal Rewards & Recognition Program
- Employee Referral Bonuses
Company HQ
Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, CA
Leadership
Joanna McFarland
(Co-Founder & CEO)Former Board Member at the Marketplace Industry Association and LA Tech.org.
Share this job
View 1 more job at HopSkipDrive