The Director of Communications is responsible for creating and driving YMCA brand platform messaging by developing, implementing and reporting on both internal and external communications and public relations tactics at both the association and local levels. He/she will work closely with both metro and center staff to support their communication needs.
Areas of Responsibility:
- Develop and implement proactive communications strategy to bring forward the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s work and mission throughout Chicagoland.
- Develop and execute pro-active communications calendar including media pitches, calendar releases, press releases, and national observances.
Write and edit articles, press releases, media advisories, statements, and pitches, talking points, blogs, social media content and other media communications to promote the YMCA’s mission, brand, initiatives, programs, and events. - Manage ad-hoc crisis communication issues including message development, media statements, assigning spokespeople, media handling, stakeholder communication, and post reporting.
- Serve as the point person for all media inquiries.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with media and Y spokespeople to support and strengthen communications.
- Manage projects to ensure content is publication ready and in by the deadline.
- Establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with both metro and center staff to identify opportunities to promote YMCA activities appropriate for internal and external audiences.
- Write and distribute on-going internal YMCA communications linked to brand platform on deadline, including, but not limited to, employee newsletter, media recap, and key stakeholder newsletters.
- Proofread all communications for clarity, grammar, and spelling.
- Use metrics and reporting to measure reach and success of communication efforts.
- Create comprehensive, effective reports to share reach and effectiveness.
Identify media outlets to expand the YMCA’s reach and brand awareness in the communities we serve. - Work with all levels in the organization and be a collaborative/team player.
Educational Background:
Must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, Marketing, Communications, or related discipline.
Skills/Experience:
- 2+ years of experience in public relations and/or communications.
- An understanding of SEO, digital marketing are a plus.
- Excellent written communication.
- Experience with the Adobe Creative Suite, particularly with Photoshop and InDesign.
- Excellent attention to details, and detail oriented.
- Ability to successfully plan, organize, implement, document, monitor projects, meet deadlines, and respond to changing priorities and circumstances.
- Ability to work well with all levels in the organization and be a collaborative/team player.
- Must show initiative and adaptability; be reliable and able to take responsibility and direction well.
- Must be fast and resourceful in collecting content from necessary centers, camps and departments.
- Must be familiar with current web and interactive technology and design trends and methodologies.
Job Function:
Organization Info
Listing Stats
Post Date:
Mar 2 2019
Active Until:
Apr 2 2019
Hiring Organization:
YMCA of the USA
industry:
Nonprofit