Context: Responsible for creating and managing all aspects of the Chapter’s internal and external communications strategies that embody the overall vision and goals of the Chapter. Collaborates with Chapter volunteer leaders and staff to promote the conservation action, public education, and other goals of the Sierra Club through the development, coordination, and implementation of messages and strategic communication plans and through outreach to the general public and public officials.
Scope: The Chapter Communications Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and coordinating communication strategies for internal and external audiences, including but not limited to members and supporters, the media, and policy decision makers.
- Develop and oversee execution of a Chapter communications plan, editorial calendar, email calendar, and paid media plan, with input from Chapter Director, staff, and volunteer leaders that incorporates the full range of Chapter conservation action campaigns, including legislative and political programs.
- Ensure project planning incorporates insights from data-driven analyses of membership, supporters, as well as external sources such as polling and state/community demographic data.
- Serve as senior editor for Chapter emails, media advisories, press statements, and press releases. Cultivate relationships with media. Pitch story ideas to reporters. Act as a spokesperson as appropriate.
- Develop and/or refine messaging and issue framing for all Chapter communications, and ensure messaging is in line with National and other local entities.
- Manage crisis communication and rapid response efforts.
- Responsible for the content, functionality, and optimization of the Chapter website and social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
- Responsible for designing and implementing social media strategies around the Chapter’s campaigns and programs.
- Design, coordinate, and produce AddUp campaigns.
- Design, coordinate, and produce content for monthly Chapter e-newsletter to members and supporters.
- Provide communications support to Regional Groups, including but not limited to producing emails, action alerts, press interaction, and messaging.
- Work with Chapter Director and volunteer fundraising committee to produce direct mail, email, and digital fundraising communications.
- Develop the design and content of member-to-member and PAC communications materials as requested by the Chapter political committee.
- With input from Chapter staff and volunteer leaders, manage all other digital strategies, including but not limited to: action alerts, events, surveys/polls, etc.
- Work with the Chapter lobbyist, LACE, and the organizing team to produce fact sheets and other communications for lobbying.
- Develop and provide training to volunteers on campaign messaging and press relations.
- Recruit, train, and supervise media and communications interns.
- Three or more years of experience in communications or closely related field.
- Proven public/media relations skills and ability to communicate well with writers, editors, and publishers.
- Knowledge and demonstrated experience using a variety of social media channels to enhance communication strategies and increase engagement.
- Ability to stay abreast of industry trends for communications and media relations.
- Experience in producing communications for different audiences and organizational needs.
- Strong oral, excellent editing and written communications skills.
- Proficiency in the use of a wide range of digital communication tools - including CRMs, databases, analytics programs, and graphic design software.
- Demonstrated familiarity with conservation and environmental topics, issues, and literature.
- Ability to work as part of a team with staff and volunteers.
- Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure.
The Sierra Club offers competitive salary package commensurate with skills and experience plus excellent benefits that include medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a retirement savings 401(k) plan.