Application Guide
How to Apply for VP, Public Relations & Communications (USA-based)
at D2L
🏢 About D2L
D2L is a global learning technology company that created the Brightspace platform, focusing on transforming education through innovative digital solutions. As a remote-first organization with a strong US presence, D2L offers the opportunity to shape communications for a company making tangible impact in education technology while enjoying flexible work arrangements.
About This Role
This VP role leads all public relations and communications strategy for D2L's US operations, requiring both strategic planning and hands-on execution. You'll be responsible for building media relationships, managing crisis communications, and developing a high-performing team while aligning PR efforts with corporate goals in the competitive edtech space.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve morning strategy sessions with your remote team to coordinate media outreach, followed by reviewing analytics from recent PR campaigns. You'd likely spend time building relationships with education technology journalists, preparing executive communications, and developing crisis protocols while managing budget allocations for various initiatives.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who D2L Is Looking For
- Has 12+ years of progressive PR experience with at least 5 years in leadership roles managing teams and budgets in technology or education sectors
- Demonstrates proven success in both proactive media strategy and crisis communications management with measurable results
- Possesses exceptional storytelling abilities specifically around complex technology products and their impact on education outcomes
- Has experience working in remote-first organizations and can effectively lead distributed communications teams
📝 Tips for Applying to D2L
Quantify your PR achievements with specific metrics (media placements, crisis response times, team growth) rather than just listing responsibilities
Research D2L's recent media coverage and identify 1-2 opportunities for improved positioning in your application materials
Highlight any experience with education technology or SaaS companies, as this industry knowledge is crucial for this role
Demonstrate your understanding of remote team management by describing how you've successfully led distributed PR teams
Connect your crisis communication experience specifically to technology companies or education sector challenges
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your experience developing PR strategies that directly supported business goals in technology companies', 'Specific examples of building relationships with education or technology journalists and securing meaningful coverage', "How you've successfully managed crisis communications in fast-paced environments", 'Your approach to mentoring and developing PR teams in remote work settings']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → D2L's recent product announcements and how they've been covered in education and technology media
- → The competitive landscape of learning management systems in the US education market
- → D2L's corporate leadership team and their public communications style
- → Recent education technology trends and how D2L is positioned within them
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with generic PR experience without highlighting specific technology or education sector knowledge
- Failing to demonstrate quantifiable results from previous PR campaigns or crisis management
- Submitting materials that don't address how you would approach remote team leadership and management
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!