Expression of Interest

Touchstone is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from individuals or firms for the provision of **Communications, Marketing, Graphic Design and Engagement Services **(as defined below), over the next three years.

This is a unique opportunity for individuals/firms to provide **valuable insights and contribute strategic expertise to support Touchstone’s communications, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and goals.**

Opportunities are open to qualified individuals/firms and are being advertised as a services undertaking, on a consulting basis**.** Individuals/firms would **not be** considered employees of Touchstone, but rather will be asked to perform work on an as needed basis during the term their Services Agreement. One or more individuals/firms may be selected to enter a Service Agreement with Touchstone.

**Description of Services**

**The individual/firm will support the Communications Lead by**:
**1) Annual Report Development**
- Assisting in the development of Touchstone Institute’s annual report to effectively communicate the organization’s achievements, financials, and strategic goals.
- Collaborating with the Communications Lead to gather relevant data, stories, and visuals that highlight key milestones and successes.
- Providing high-quality content creation and design assistance for print and digital publication.
- Supporting the end-to-end production process, including design and development of web templates.

**2) Stakeholder Analysis**
- Conduct thorough stakeholder identification and analysis to inform communication strategies.
- Develop stakeholder engagement plans tailored to the unique needs of each group.
- Collaborate with the Communications Lead to refine stakeholder mapping and ensure comprehensive coverage.

**3) Crisis Communication Plan**
- Designing and implementing a crisis communication plan that includes protocols, procedures, and key messaging to effectively respond to potential crises.
- Supporting the Communications Lead in establishing and training a crisis response team.
- Conducting crisis simulations and contributing to refining the plan as needed.

**4) Content Creation**
- Supporting the Communications Lead in creating diverse content types, such as press releases, newsletters, social media posts, and internal communications.
- Ensuring content is platform-appropriate and audience-specific for optimal engagement.
- Working collaboratively to align content with Touchstone’s brand and strategic objectives.

**5) Media Relations**
- Assisting in drafting and distributing press releases, organizing press conferences, and handling media inquiries.
- Supporting proactive media outreach strategies.

**6) Training and Workshops**
- Assisting in developing and facilitating training programs for internal teams on effective communication practices.
- Providing specialized workshops as directed by the Communications Lead on topics such as media handling and public speaking.

**7) Measurement and Reporting**
- Working alongside the Communications Lead to develop and implement performance measurement systems for communication strategies.
- Contributing to regular reports and presentations, offering data-driven insights.
- Supporting the collection and analysis of feedback to improve future communication efforts.

**8) Brand Messaging Guidelines**
- Helping maintain and update comprehensive brand messaging guidelines.
- Ensuring the adoption of these guidelines across all communication materials under the guidance of the Communications Lead.

**9) Event Planning and Management**
- Supporting the Communications Lead in organizing and managing both virtual and in-person corporate events.
- Assisting with logistics, event-specific communication plans, and promotional activities.
- Serving as a communication point during events as needed.

**10) Change Management Communication**
- Collaborating with the Communications Lead to develop communication plans supporting organizational changes.
- Assisting in monitoring change communication effectiveness and provide insights for improvements.

**11) Special Projects**
- Providing support for high-impact communication projects, such as strategic plans, under the direction of the Communications Lead.
- Contributing to creating materials that highlight key outcomes for stakeholders and the public.

**12) Web and Social Media**
- Enhancing Touchstone’s digital presence through web and social media strategies as directed by the Communications Lead.
- Supporting content calendar development and SEO/SEM best practices.
- Contributing to analytics and reporting to refine digital engagement strategies.

**13) Graphic and Design Support**
- Designing presentation templates that align with Touchstone’s brand, ensuring professional and visually appealing business presentations.
- Creating packaging designs that reflect the brand’s image and align with communication objectives.
- Developing print and digital advertisement