Communications Manager

Job overview/purpose

Under the direct supervision of Head of School/CEO, this position exists to support the communications needs and aspirations of the organization by serving a as link to both the Communications contractors and consultants as well as all school leadership. The activities of the Manager, in concert with the contractors will support up to date, and efficient internal and external communications as well as efficient maintenance and successful implementation of the approved communication and strategic plans.

Duties and responsibilities

List the primary job duties and responsibilities using headings and then give examples of the types of activities under each heading. Using headings and giving examples of the types of activities to be done allows you to develop a flexible job description that encourages employee to ‘work outside the box’ and within reason, discourages “that’s not my job”.

• Establishes strategic marketing plans to achieve corporate objectives.
• Develops and executes comprehensive marketing plans and programs, both short and long range, to support objectives of organization.
• Researches, analyzes, and monitors financial, technological, and demographic factors to capitalize on market opportunities and minimize effects of competitive activity.
• Develops and manages marketing operating budget.
• Plans and oversees advertising and promotion activities including print, online, electronic media, and direct mail.
• Evaluates and recommends distribution channel development programs.
• Serves as liaison with outside agencies on ongoing promotional campaigns.
• Oversees development and production of promotional and collateral materials.
• Ensures effective control of marketing results and takes corrective action to guarantee that achievement of marketing objectives falls within designated budgets.
• Oversees and evaluates market research and adjusts marketing strategy to meet changing market and competitive conditions.
• Monitors competitive products and marketing activities.
• Oversees development and maintenance of customer database.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with industry influencers and key community and strategic partners.
• Resolves conflicts and facilitates changes in structure of marketing group to ensure objective fulfillment and swift response to marketing problems and opportunities.
• Conducts marketing surveys on current and new product concepts, and provides feedback for future product development.
• Guides preparation of marketing activity reports and presents to executive management.
• Establishes and maintains a consistent corporate image throughout all product lines, promotional materials, and events
• Plans and directs development and communication of information designed to keep public informed of employer's programs, accomplishments, or point of view.
• Arranges for public relations efforts in order to meet needs, objectives, and policies of individual, special interest group, business concern, nonprofit organization, or governmental agency
• Prepares and distributes fact sheets, news releases, photographs, scripts, motion pictures, or tape recordings to media representatives and other persons who may be interested in learning about or publicizing employer's activities or message.
• Purchases advertising space and time as required.
• Arranges for and conducts public contact programs designed to meet employer's objectives.
• Promotes goodwill through such publicity efforts as speeches, exhibits, films, tours, and question/answer sessions.
• Represents employer during community projects and at public, social, and business gatherings.
• Researches data, creates ideas, writes copy, lays out artwork, contacts media representatives, or represents employer directly before general public.
• Confers with production and support personnel to coordinate production of television advertisements and on-air promotions.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree and a well-balanced combination of experience
• Minimum Experience: 2 Years
• Minimum Field of Expertise: Communication and Education

Qualifications or Knowledge, Experience, Skills, Attitude and Aptitude (KESAA) factors include:

• Strong written/oral communications, research, proofreading
• Experience with technologies and best practices for campaigns across multiple platforms
• Ability to multitask and monitor several projects and accounts daily
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage time effectively
• Ability to take initiative to develop new strategies and outside-the-box ideas for social media.
• Excellent media relations skills
• Ability to work independently or in a team

Working conditions

This position is based in Washington, D.C. and requires infrequent travel within the District and the surrounding counties, attendance to networking events, and evening and weekend hours.