Friends of the Children, Seattle, WA
Communications Manager
Friends of the Children, Seattle, WA, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127
JOB TITLE: Communications ManagerDIRECT REPORT:
Marketing and Events CoordinatorREPORTS TO: Chief Development and Communications OfficerFriends of the Children–Seattle (Friends–Seattle)
Seattle, WASince 2000, Friends-Seattle continues to impact generational change by helping youth who are facing the toughest systematic barriers in our community to realize their power through relationships with salaried, professional mentors—for 12+ years, no matter what. Friends of the Children is the only national youth development program that selects youth in kindergarten and commits to them until they graduate high school. We serve around 200 youth annually, providing services to historically marginalized communities across Seattle and South King County.
To learn more, please visit friendsseattle.org.POSITION SUMMARYThe Communications Manager(CM) collaborates with the Chief Development and Communications Officer (CDCO) and the Marketing and Events Coordinator (MEC) to raise public awareness of Friends–Seattle through owned, earned, and paid media channels, and leads communications projects and functions that support our strategic objectives. The CM partners with the CDCO to develop and implement the organization’s communications strategy to ensure it aligns with organizational strategic goals. The CM manages a variety of communication activities, including marketing, publications, web presence, advertising, social and traditional media, public relations, and outreach. The role actively supports fundraising campaigns and events, internal and external awareness building, advocacy communications, and partner relations.The CM is a member of the overall development and communications (DevComm) team and also the DevComm leadership team, which includes the Development Manager (DM), the Corporate Relations and Grants Manager (CRGM), and the CDCO. The DevComm leadership team works collaboratively to provide leadership support to the overall DevComm team to ensure achievement of department goals and cross-department collaboration. This is full-time, exempt position.The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended as a comprehensive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.Essential Functions and ResponsibilitiesCommunications Strategy and Campaigns Management (50%)Partner with CDCO to lead the development and execution of a comprehensive annual communications plan.Collaborate with the CDCO, CRGM, and DM to develop and execute multi-channel campaigns to build support for the organization and achieve fundraising goalsDevelop print and electronic communications to raise visibility of Friends-SeattleCapture photos for the website, social media, and other promotional usesEnsure messaging, content, and data in print and digital outreach materials are up to date and reflect the organization’s mission and values.Oversee regular maintenance of the Friends-Seattle websiteCollaborate with the MEC, CDCO, and program staff to develop and distribute social media content to engage current and new audiences.Utilize digital marketing and content analytics and other data to make recommendations and support the CDCO with regular reporting of metrics and progress to key stakeholders.Manage relationships with designers, photographers, freelance writers, community partners, advocates and activists, media, vendors, etc.Proactively maintain and build relationships with local media outlets; seek out and secure earned media coverage.Coordinate media events such as press conferences and support staff participation in media interviews and other spotlights.Conduct media and messaging training for staff and volunteers who serve as spokespersons for Friends-Seattle.Maintain Friends-Seattle's brand identity and fidelity in all external communications and materials.Cross-Team Collaboration (35%)Supervise the MEC and provide coaching, support, feedback, evaluation, and opportunities for professional developmentConduct regular check-ins with MEC to provide support using a work plan and the organization’s performance management systemPartner with CDCO to develop and execute an annual work plan with measurable deliverablesPartner with Outreach & Engagement (O&E) team to support relationship building that fosters strong partnerships with community organizations and volunteers that reflect Friends-Seattle's values and mission.Lead the communications committee to ensure members reflect our internal and external community, and can support with communications strategic goalsParticipate in intentional learning efforts, including events and opportunities relating to nonprofit fundraising, understanding and dismantling institutional oppression, and building cultural humility.Contribute toward a positive, inclusive work environment, and actively participate in department, cross-department, and all-staff meetings, activities, and events.Ethical Storytelling and Internal Communications (15%)Build relationships with youth and families; ensure all content is accurate, authentic, and respectful.Serve as a thought leader and internal expert on strengths based.storytelling: collect stories to develop new content that demonstrates organizational impactEffectively partner across departments to develop and maintain a collaborative process for story collection.Maintain consistent check-ins with O&E, Program, and Grants teams to ensure partners and supporters are represented authentically on all communications platforms.Supervise and manage communications interns and volunteers (e.g., members of the communications committee).Required Experience and SkillsBachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experienceMinimum of 2 years demonstrated experience with branding, marketing, graphic design, and communications strategiesMinimum of 4 years demonstrated skill in planning andimplementing nonprofit communications and marketing strategiesProficiency in Microsoft SuiteProficiency in Canva and/or Adobe Creative SuiteStrong attention to detail and project management skillsExperience with content management systems, email marketing platforms, and fundraising databases.Able to work well in a team environment, handle multiple assignments and meet deadlines.Knowledge of best practices for writing and publishing on different platformsExcellent written, presentation, oral communications, and interpersonal skillsDemonstrated competency of website platforms, social media and other digital and new media tools.Experience building relationships with various stakeholders and collaborating in a diverse and dynamic team environment, as well as the ability to write compelling messages for diverse audiences and stakeholders.Strong commitment and understanding of Friends-Seattle’s mission and core values.Ability to maintain regular communication with supervisor regarding work plans, and proactively seek guidance regarding priorities and timelines.Ability to maintain confidentiality, use good judgment, and follow procedures Must hold a valid driver's license.Demonstrated commitment to equity and anti-oppression.Availability to work occasional evenings and/or weekends for events.Preferred Experience & Skills:Experience with project management software such as Air Table.Experience with donor management software such as Bloomerang, Greater Giving, etc.Strong knowledge and network from King County area.Experience working with youth development programming.Experience working with youth and families from historically marginalized communities.Deep understanding of cultural humility.Occasional lifting of up to 25lbs may be required. Work hours vary but are generally 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, however flexibility is essential. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required. Friends-Seattle offers a hybrid work environment. Members of the Development and Communications team are required to be in the office Tuesday-Thursday. Employment contingent on successful background check.
Marketing and Events CoordinatorREPORTS TO: Chief Development and Communications OfficerFriends of the Children–Seattle (Friends–Seattle)
Seattle, WASince 2000, Friends-Seattle continues to impact generational change by helping youth who are facing the toughest systematic barriers in our community to realize their power through relationships with salaried, professional mentors—for 12+ years, no matter what. Friends of the Children is the only national youth development program that selects youth in kindergarten and commits to them until they graduate high school. We serve around 200 youth annually, providing services to historically marginalized communities across Seattle and South King County.
To learn more, please visit friendsseattle.org.POSITION SUMMARYThe Communications Manager(CM) collaborates with the Chief Development and Communications Officer (CDCO) and the Marketing and Events Coordinator (MEC) to raise public awareness of Friends–Seattle through owned, earned, and paid media channels, and leads communications projects and functions that support our strategic objectives. The CM partners with the CDCO to develop and implement the organization’s communications strategy to ensure it aligns with organizational strategic goals. The CM manages a variety of communication activities, including marketing, publications, web presence, advertising, social and traditional media, public relations, and outreach. The role actively supports fundraising campaigns and events, internal and external awareness building, advocacy communications, and partner relations.The CM is a member of the overall development and communications (DevComm) team and also the DevComm leadership team, which includes the Development Manager (DM), the Corporate Relations and Grants Manager (CRGM), and the CDCO. The DevComm leadership team works collaboratively to provide leadership support to the overall DevComm team to ensure achievement of department goals and cross-department collaboration. This is full-time, exempt position.The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended as a comprehensive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.Essential Functions and ResponsibilitiesCommunications Strategy and Campaigns Management (50%)Partner with CDCO to lead the development and execution of a comprehensive annual communications plan.Collaborate with the CDCO, CRGM, and DM to develop and execute multi-channel campaigns to build support for the organization and achieve fundraising goalsDevelop print and electronic communications to raise visibility of Friends-SeattleCapture photos for the website, social media, and other promotional usesEnsure messaging, content, and data in print and digital outreach materials are up to date and reflect the organization’s mission and values.Oversee regular maintenance of the Friends-Seattle websiteCollaborate with the MEC, CDCO, and program staff to develop and distribute social media content to engage current and new audiences.Utilize digital marketing and content analytics and other data to make recommendations and support the CDCO with regular reporting of metrics and progress to key stakeholders.Manage relationships with designers, photographers, freelance writers, community partners, advocates and activists, media, vendors, etc.Proactively maintain and build relationships with local media outlets; seek out and secure earned media coverage.Coordinate media events such as press conferences and support staff participation in media interviews and other spotlights.Conduct media and messaging training for staff and volunteers who serve as spokespersons for Friends-Seattle.Maintain Friends-Seattle's brand identity and fidelity in all external communications and materials.Cross-Team Collaboration (35%)Supervise the MEC and provide coaching, support, feedback, evaluation, and opportunities for professional developmentConduct regular check-ins with MEC to provide support using a work plan and the organization’s performance management systemPartner with CDCO to develop and execute an annual work plan with measurable deliverablesPartner with Outreach & Engagement (O&E) team to support relationship building that fosters strong partnerships with community organizations and volunteers that reflect Friends-Seattle's values and mission.Lead the communications committee to ensure members reflect our internal and external community, and can support with communications strategic goalsParticipate in intentional learning efforts, including events and opportunities relating to nonprofit fundraising, understanding and dismantling institutional oppression, and building cultural humility.Contribute toward a positive, inclusive work environment, and actively participate in department, cross-department, and all-staff meetings, activities, and events.Ethical Storytelling and Internal Communications (15%)Build relationships with youth and families; ensure all content is accurate, authentic, and respectful.Serve as a thought leader and internal expert on strengths based.storytelling: collect stories to develop new content that demonstrates organizational impactEffectively partner across departments to develop and maintain a collaborative process for story collection.Maintain consistent check-ins with O&E, Program, and Grants teams to ensure partners and supporters are represented authentically on all communications platforms.Supervise and manage communications interns and volunteers (e.g., members of the communications committee).Required Experience and SkillsBachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experienceMinimum of 2 years demonstrated experience with branding, marketing, graphic design, and communications strategiesMinimum of 4 years demonstrated skill in planning andimplementing nonprofit communications and marketing strategiesProficiency in Microsoft SuiteProficiency in Canva and/or Adobe Creative SuiteStrong attention to detail and project management skillsExperience with content management systems, email marketing platforms, and fundraising databases.Able to work well in a team environment, handle multiple assignments and meet deadlines.Knowledge of best practices for writing and publishing on different platformsExcellent written, presentation, oral communications, and interpersonal skillsDemonstrated competency of website platforms, social media and other digital and new media tools.Experience building relationships with various stakeholders and collaborating in a diverse and dynamic team environment, as well as the ability to write compelling messages for diverse audiences and stakeholders.Strong commitment and understanding of Friends-Seattle’s mission and core values.Ability to maintain regular communication with supervisor regarding work plans, and proactively seek guidance regarding priorities and timelines.Ability to maintain confidentiality, use good judgment, and follow procedures Must hold a valid driver's license.Demonstrated commitment to equity and anti-oppression.Availability to work occasional evenings and/or weekends for events.Preferred Experience & Skills:Experience with project management software such as Air Table.Experience with donor management software such as Bloomerang, Greater Giving, etc.Strong knowledge and network from King County area.Experience working with youth development programming.Experience working with youth and families from historically marginalized communities.Deep understanding of cultural humility.Occasional lifting of up to 25lbs may be required. Work hours vary but are generally 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, however flexibility is essential. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required. Friends-Seattle offers a hybrid work environment. Members of the Development and Communications team are required to be in the office Tuesday-Thursday. Employment contingent on successful background check.