Communication Specialist

**TITLE**: Communications Specialist

**LOCATION**: 661 Main Street

**DEPARTMENT**:Administration

**REPORTS TO**:Director of Development

**DIRECT REPORTS**:None

**Salary**: $55,000 to $60,000

***

Under the direction of the Director of Development, the Communications Specialist is responsible for planning and executing Main Street Project’s internal and external communications including digital communications, media relations, brand oversight, and supporting senior leadership with the advancement of the agency’s strategic objectives. The Communications Specialist will build positive relationships with staff and community members with a focus on creating and distributing content that will enable MSP to effectively communicate with all of the organization's stakeholder audiences. This position will lead all social media and traditional communications, productions, publications, photography and graphic design. The Communication Specialist is part of the Development team and plays a key role in fundraising campaign initiatives.

**DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES**
- Compose material for a variety of audiences and purposes including social media, website, marketing materials, media releases and other print and electronic communications.
- Liaise between staff, community, partners and the public with thorough understanding of all aspects of MSP’s programming, how programs work together to convey the impact programming has in our city.
- Coordinate the production, organization and design of all external materials for MSP.
- Design or coordinate the design of engaging graphics and visuals while adhering to the MSP brand and core values.
- Write, edit and proofread written content for accuracy, consistency, clarity and style.
- Coordinate the planning and implementation of social media initiatives.
- Coordinate with staff for website updates, advertising and media content.
- Assist with the organization of special programs, initiatives and events.
- Write and edit media releases, fact sheets, public statements, and letters.
- Develop and support the implementation of an internal communications strategy.
- Collaborate with HR to coordinate staff communications such as newsletters, surveys, staff orientation and training materials.
- Communicate and build relationships with community members, donors, coworkers and volunteers in a positive and responsive way.
- Maintain productivity standards and practices, effective time management and prioritization of work.
- Participate in interdisciplinary meetings, task forces and projects.
- Participate in the development and implementation of appropriate tools and strategies needed for assessments, program planning/development and evaluation including annual work plans, quarterly and annual reporting.
- Demonstrate discretion and tact when dealing with highly confidential materials and matters.
- Participate in relevant meetings, committees and assigned projects.
- Develop and implement an individual plan for professional growth and development including participating in professional organizations and activities, workshops, seminars and staff development.
- Adhere to Main Street Project policies and procedures.
- Represent Main Street Project professionally and competently.

**SKILLS & SPECIFICATIONS**
- Knowledge of communication planning, implementation and evaluation.
- Comfortable building relationships with community, coworkers, donors, volunteers.
- Proficient in the use of current technology required for the performance of duties, including MS Office and database or CRM software.
- Ability to understand, provide feedback and implement necessary revisions to processes and procedures.
- Ability to manage small and large-scale communication projects both as part of a team and independently led.
- Skilled communicator with excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to professionally communicate with diverse individuals.
- Proven ability to manage numerous tasks and projects simultaneously including the ability to coordinate, delegate, and monitor the completion of administrative work.
- Proven ability to independently oversee daily communications operations including working closely with and providing direction to other administrative support staff in a professional and collaborative manner.
- Motivated, self-starting, detail oriented and exceptional organization and time management skills.
- A people-person, team player that willingly and enthusiastically provides support and mentorship as required.
- Ability to handle highly confidential material and matters professionally.
- Ability to work varying hours to accommodate committee meetings, special events, etc.

**EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS**
- Post-Secondary degree or diploma; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
- 3-5 years of communications experience in a complex private, public or non-profit organization.
- Experience managing websites, social media accounts