Director of Communications

Director Of Communications

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine spacefor people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra's ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms). Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.

Umbra is seeking a seasoned, strategic Director of Communications to lead the company's internal and external communications and shape how Umbra tells its story to employees, customers, media, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the broader public.

Reporting to the VP of Communications, the Director will lead the day-to-day execution of Umbra's communications strategy, with responsibility for media relations and press engagement, internal communications, executive communications, corporate messaging, and major company announcements. This individual will serve as a trusted communications advisor to senior leaders across the company and help build and protect Umbra's reputation as a leading American space technology company.

The ideal candidate is an exceptional writer and communicator with strong news judgment, deep media relations experience, and the ability to translate complex technical and business topics into clear, compelling narratives. This role requires someone who can operate strategically while also moving quickly and executing directly in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. This position is based on-site in our Arlington, VA office.

Key Responsibilities

External Communications & Media Relations

• Lead Umbra's day-to-day media relations and press activities, serving as a primary point of contact for journalists and managing both inbound and proactive media engagement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with national, trade, defense, space, technology, and business media.
• Develop and execute proactive media strategies that elevate Umbra's capabilities, leadership, business priorities, and role in the broader space and national security ecosystem.
• Lead communications planning and execution for company announcements, product and mission milestones, partnerships, contracts, launches, and other significant developments.
• Draft and edit press releases, statements, speeches, talking points, op-eds, executive communications, Q&As, briefing materials, and other external content.
• Prepare and advise senior executives for media interviews, public speaking engagements, panels, and other high-profile opportunities.
• Manage press inquiries and coordinate responses across leadership, Legal, business units, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Monitor the media and external environment to identify emerging opportunities, issues, and reputational risks.
• Lead communications response to sensitive, high-profile, or rapidly evolving issues, ensuring messaging is timely, accurate, and coordinated.

Internal & Executive Communications

• Lead Umbra's internal communications efforts, helping ensure employees are informed, aligned, and connected to the company's mission, strategy, and priorities.
• Develop and execute internal communications plans around company priorities, organizational developments, milestones, and other important employee matters.
• Establish and manage a consistent cadence of internal communications across channels, including Slack, newsletters, all-hands meetings, and leadership communications.
• Partner closely with senior leadership to develop executive messaging, talking points, presentations, company-wide announcements, and other leadership communications.
• Partner with People, Legal, Operations, and business leaders on sensitive or complex employee communications.
• Ensure internal communications are clear, timely, and consistent with Umbra's voice, values, and broader corporate narrative.

Corporate Narrative & Communications Strategy

• Partner with the VP of Communications to develop and execute Umbra's overarching communications strategy and corporate narrative.
• Help ensure a clear and consistent Umbra story across the company's three business units: Remote Sensing, Space Systems, and Mission Solutions.
• Translate complex technology, missions, and business priorities into clear and compelling communications for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Partner with business leaders to identify stories, milestones, and opportunities that advance Umbra's strategic objectives and strengthen its external profile.
• Partner with People, Legal, Operations, and business leaders on sensitive or complex employee communications.
• Ensure internal communications are clear, timely, and consistent with Umbra's voice, values, and broader corporate narrative.
• Develop and maintain core corporate messaging, executive talking points, company background materials, and other foundational communications resources.
• Ensure consistency of voice, positioning, and messaging across earned media, internal communications, executive engagement, social media, and digital channels.
• Establish processes and metrics to assess communications effectiveness and continuously improve how Umbra reaches key audiences.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Serve as a trusted communications partner to executives and leaders across Umbra's business units and corporate functions.
• Collaborate closely with Marketing, Government Affairs, Business Development, People, Legal, and other teams to ensure communications are coordinated and aligned with company priorities.
• Partner with digital and content teams on integrated communications efforts spanning earned media, social media, web, and internal channels.
• Provide communications counsel on emerging issues, reputational considerations, and significant company decisions.
• Manage external communications agencies, consultants, and other partners as needed.
• Help strengthen communications processes, planning, and coordination across the organization as Umbra continues to grow.