Communications manager (7859)

Description

Schedule/Hours: M – F 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (40 hours per week)

This position is responsible for: Under the general supervision of the Development Director, the Communication Manager plans, develops, coordinates, maintains, improves and supervises the day-to-day Area Command communication operations with the purpose of improving both internal and public awareness and support for programs and services that advance the Army’s mission. The incumbent provides the capacity to enhance evangelism, strengthen community relations, provide frequent, accurate and improved public information, forge stronger media relations and partnerships, and in general, raise the standards of communications across the Area Command.

In collaboration with the Divisional Communications Director, he/she designs, develops and presents promotional materials using multi-media formats and serves as primary liaison with print and broadcast media with regard to the promotion of Salvation Army events, services, disaster relief, etc. The incumbent develops and maintains an effective communication plan/strategy to manage the Army’s image and address any adverse public relations events; keeps internal and external audiences informed about Salvation Army activity during disaster and/or crises events. He/she oversees and coordinates all donor communications with Area Commander and Development Director including donor newsletters, direct mail and direct marketing; oversees (and supervises support staff when applicable) multi-media communications including all web-based and social media stream. Maintain relationships with the media in support of the Angel Tree and Christmas stocking programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plans, develops, coordinates, evaluates and improves the communication functions for the Area Command with a goal of increasing public awareness of, and support for, the mission of The Salvation Army; develops and manages an annual Communications Plan (working in concert with the Marketing and Public Relations Committee) outlining the strategies, objectives and measureable outcomes of the Area Command communications practices.
• Prepares and disseminates internal and external news and press releases in both written and electronic formats; shares news with the divisional staff as needed ensuring this is accomplished with the goal of integration of a common identity.
• Where possible, has adequate knowledge and practical experience of basic photography and videography. Uses appropriate equipment i.e. smart phones and compact cameras for video and still photography to capture events, disaster response and any other footage that can be used by the Divisional and Territorial Communications Bureau responsible for developing long form video productions; ensures compliance with territorial policies and standards as well as copyright laws related to the distribution of video and still photography.
• Manages all aspects of the Area Command website and Facebook content administration; ensures uniformity to current Salvation Army web branding standards; ensures maintenance of Corps websites and regular posting of news and information, location information updates and accessibility for authorized local users.
• Implements and strengthens awareness and support for the National “Branding” Promise throughout the Area Command and in coordination with the DHQ and THQ Communications Bureau.
• Coordinates with Human Resources to generate awareness via new hire orientation as well as periodic special events to reinforce awareness and support for the Brand at every unit of operation within the division.
• Serves as the Area Command PIO when required. Ensures there are adequate candidates who have taken the PIO course to assist when necessary. Is available to serve at a moment’s notice when disaster strikes the Area Command and/or the Division.
• Writes effective media releases and posts them to the national EDS website in a timely manner.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

Duties are usually performed seated. Sitting may be relieved by brief or occasional periods of standing or walking. Limited amount of physical effort required associated with walking, standing, lifting, and carrying light objects (less than 25 lbs.) 5-10% of work time. Work is performed in a normal office environment where there is little or no physical discomfort associated with changes in weather or discomfort associated with noise, dust, dirt, and the like.

Employee Benefits:

• Paid Time Off
• Retirement Savings Plan Available
• Supplemental Insurance Available
• Voluntary Life Insurance and more!

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Relations, Communications, or a related field is required with a Masters Preferred, AND At least three years of progressively responsible experience administering a variety of internal and external communication functions, OR Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Veterans | Disabled