Lead, coordinate and manage all communications and marketing, focusing on driving the Y message and brand in a variety of platforms to advance the association and achieve strategic goals. The position will provide direct oversight and daily management of all communications initiatives and digital media.
Reports to the Director of Advancement and works with financial development, programs, group sales and engagement and other staff to develop and implement all branded materials for the association, including print, social media, video, email and website content. Identify opportunities to increase donor engagement and program participation through print and digital tactics and storytelling.
Located in in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina in Black Mountain on a picturesque 1,200 acre campus, YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly is a non-profit leadership and training center. Having hosted our first conference over 100 years ago, we continue to serve a diverse array of groups—churches, schools, colleges, family reunions and youth groups, among others. As a hospitality-focused YMCA, we are committed to delivering exceptional experiences for our 30,000 annual guests while developing a team of values-driven leaders.
- Develops, directs and implements a strategic communications plan to advance the association’s core business, philanthropic efforts, goals, the YMCA mission, cause and brand.
- Oversees the production of all communications materials, including writing and editing content, procuring stories, and proofing designs. Responsible for effective content and timely, accurate delivery of all materials.
- Develops and implements strategies to expand visibility, increase donor engagement and grow program participation across all media platforms.
- Acts as chief writer and editor. Gather content, capture stories and write and publish print and electronic communications including quarterly Blue Ridge voice newsletters, constituent group email newsletters, press releases, presentation scripts/talking points.
- Maintains an awareness of and monitors trends, technology development and new options that may have the potential of advancing the association’s communications efforts.
- Responsible for coordinating the production and mailing of all printed materials with print company/mailing house.
- Serves as liaison with website administrator in monitoring, maintaining and updating website content.
- Responsible for managing the communications budget, including print materials and online marketing in consultation with the Director of Advancement.
- In coordination with the Graphic Designer, responsible for the production and development of all videography and photography supporting association’s messaging and brand.
- Ensures all print and digital media are in compliance with YMCA Blue Ridge media policy, communication strategies and Y brand graphic standards.
- Provides communications support for special events and projects as needed.
- Minimum 2 years of professional experience in communications along with a strong understanding of public relations and brand management.
- Previous YMCA experience or connection with YMCA Blue Ridge preferred.
- Demonstrated extensive, successful writing and editing experience with a variety of print and digital media.
- Excellent copywriting, editing and verbal skills; previous photography/video/interviewing experience also preferred.
- Strong project management skills and the ability to effectively coordinate and lead the involvement of other team members.
- Ability to prioritize, handle multiple projects, meet production deadlines and adapt to a fast-paced environment.
- Must be well-versed in industry trends and Y graphic standards; working knowledge of print industry.
- High level of professionalism, initiative, creativity, and problem-solving.
- Advanced computer skills and the ability to learn new software and online content management systems are critical.
- Positive attitude and the ability to work with and create a strong team environment.
Salary: $27,000.00 - $32,000.00