Context: Develops and implements communications strategies to ensure organizational priorities reach an internal audience of both national and chapter staff, as well as volunteers, in order to build a shared internal culture and increase transparency and engagement across the organization.
Scope: The Internal Communications Manager is responsible for implementing and coordinating internal constituency communications strategies, and participating in the development, planning, and coordination of communications work while managing Communications staff. Cultivates national and regional contacts within the organization --including key chapter staff, group leaders and other volunteers -- building a network that helps channel information far and wide. Works to ensure organizational priorities and values are understood at every level of the organization and that Sierra Club resources reach the many audiences that can take advantage of them, Works with full range of Communications Department capacities, including creative design and video production, to create compelling vehicles to convey priorities and gather feedback.
Works closely with the Director of Communications, Deputy Communications Director, Chief of Staff, other senior staff and volunteer leaders as appropriate on implementing internal communications plans, and identifying priorities.
- Provides strategic communications planning for short and long-term internal communications efforts. Identifies opportunities and implements communications plans, rapid response as needed, and strategies to communicate and reinforce organizational values and priorities. Ensure that all internal communications efforts reinforce the employer brand, culture, and values.
- Provides both technical and messaging guidance to staff in the delivery of their internal communications needs. Plan the frequency and channels of communication and coordinate relevant content from stakeholders across the organization. Partners with senior leadership and Board of Directors and serves as a communications adviser and strategist to senior leaders.
- Collaborates with Director of Communications, Deputy Communications Director, Digital Strategies, and the Chief of Staff on carrying out timely and coordinated internal response to convey organizational values, established or emerging priorities, as well as external events that may affect Club staff.
- Supervises, directs, develops, and provides general, strategic and technical guidance to staff. Includes the following supervisory responsibilities:
- assigns work and establishes standards and work priorities;
- ensures staff training and development of employee skills;
- provides ongoing performance feedback, prepares, and conducts formal performance planning and evaluation;
- recommends salary, hiring, and promotion decisions.
- oversees program budget.
- Measure and analyze communications efforts and feedback to gauge effectiveness against stated goals and modify communications based on analysis.
- Assures preparation of timely and effective communications materials, working with writer/editor and necessary staff.
- Performs research and analysis using a variety of resources -- including gathering feedback from entities across the organization -- to craft appropriate messages and materials, including newsletters, presentations, videos, and other materials as required.
- Performs miscellaneous duties as required.
Seasonal Workload
- Heavier seasonal workloads may occur as a result of project deadlines, staff absences and vacancies, and during peak activity periods.
- Some domestic travel for meetings with volunteer leaders required. Frequent weekend and/or evening work required.
- 6 years of experience in media relations, public relations, corporate/internal communications or marketing.
- 1 to 2 years of management experience, or leadership experience within a communications environment
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Knowledge and experience working in the rapidly changing world of communications, including new media platforms and technologies, with focus on the needs of constituents.
- Ability to work well under pressure, juggle competing demands and maintain good working relations with staff, volunteers and media.
- Able to work effectively as a team player.
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.