The Philanthropy Outreach and Communications Specialist will work as part of a functional team of organizational priority within a development program and with the State Director. The specialist will be responsible for providing resources and implementing plans that support The Nature Conservancy in West Virginia’s overall communications goals with a strong focus on donor, trustee and supporter outreach efforts and broadening the overall base of support. A major focus of the position will be working with chapter staff to develop and implement communications strategies and stewardship plans that further trustee, stakeholder and donor activities and other priority outreach efforts of the West Virginia program, as well as providing organizational and operational support where needed.
The Philanthropy Outreach and Communications Specialist will work toward meeting the strategic priorities of the team by developing approved plans and implementing tactics that further the West Virginia program’s strategic and philanthropic goals, as well as completing and organizing multiple tasks and activities. Such activities will include, but are not limited to, supporting and/or coordinating communications and outreach efforts, writing and designing resources/materials, guiding consistent messaging and communications strategies across constituencies and audiences of the Conservancy in West Virginia and providing operational support that will further the chapter’s strategic plan and philanthropy goals. They will provide recommendations and targeted training related to the functional area of the team. The Specialist II must have advanced knowledge of the strategies and resources utilized by the team in order to provide programmatic support and manage and implement communications strategies related to the resources and plans of the program. The Specialist II will have substantial contact with stakeholders and may serve as the lead liaison with partners such as trustees, volunteers and media. They will take on additional duties to enhance and coordinate the work of the philanthropy team and efforts of the West Virginia program. Such duties may include, but are not limited to, a more significant role in enhancing and developing tools, best operational practices and resources needed by the team and program and managing interactions with key audiences, stakeholders, and collaborators. The Specialist II will keep up-to-date on market trends and best practices in order to improve services. They will adapt processes and implement recommended practices in order to improve effectiveness.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Act independently within broad program goals to prioritize tasks in the absence of specific instructions and exercise independent judgment to identify and solve problems.
- Does not supervise any staff but may manage work of peers on departmental project teams.
- Ensure compliance with TNC policies and procedures, and external (donor/legal/IRS) requirements.
- Financial responsibility includes working within a budget, ensuring timely payment of invoices and negotiating and contracting with vendors.
- Manage an account or client relationship, as well as be on point for board outreach, communication and information management.
- Manage projects with several variables, set realistic deadlines, manage a timeline and ensure accountability.
- Serve as primary liaison for media and communications stakeholders.
- Provide oversight for a key function of the team, such as communications and donor outreach efforts.
- Act independently and/or as part of a team to set program communications goals, plan and tactics.
- Provide input through project teams for the development and implementation of new initiatives or the improvement of existing programs.
- Travel and work overtime as needed.
- Work within scope of program’s strategic goals.
- Work environment involves only infrequent exposure to disagreeable elements and minor physical exertion and/or strain.
- Work is diversified and may not always fall under established practices and guidelines.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- 3 years related experience or equivalent combination.
- Experience writing, editing, and proofreading, with an emphasis on attention to detail.
- Experience analyzing and interpreting data.
- Experience working across departments and constituencies.
- Experience with current technology in relevant field.
- Experience, coursework, or other training in principles and practices of relevant field.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Ability to implement complex processes.
- Ability to use existing technology to achieve desired results.
- Demonstrated experience using diplomacy and tact to build strong relationships and motivate staff.
- Experience coordinating projects.
- Basic design experience.
- Experience interpreting guidelines to achieve desired results.
- Experience with database management.
- Knowledge of current trends in the specific field.
- Strong organization skills, accuracy, attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks.
- Successful experience implementing strategic program goals.
- Understanding of basic accounting practices.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.