External Relations Manager (Communications)

OVERVIEW OF MEALS ON WHEELS AMERICAMeals on Wheels America is the leadership organization supporting the more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country that are dedicated to addressing senior hunger and isolation. Powered by a dedicated volunteer workforce, this network delivers a comprehensive solution that begins with a meal and is proven to enable independence and well-being through the additional benefits of tailored nutrition, social connection, safety and much more. By providing funding, programming, education, research and advocacy, Meals on Wheels America empowers its local member programs to strengthen their communities, one senior at a time. For more information, or to find a Meals on Wheels provider near you, visit www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org.POSITION SUMMARYReporting to the Director, Communications, the External Relations Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to help position Meals on Wheels America as a thought leader by managing relationships with external stakeholders, including press, policymakers, coalition partners, academia, and other key opinion leaders in the healthy aging space. The role involves leveraging external relation strategies to support the organization's mission and goals. We’re looking for a strategic thinker to help elevate the organization’s public profile so we can better support the vision of an America in which all seniors live nourished lives with independence and dignity.This is an Arlington, VA based, hybrid working role.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES· Develop and execute comprehensive external relations strategies to enhance the organization’s visibility and status as a thought leader in the health and aging fields.· Build and nurture our external audiences across the aging network, academia, policymakers, health care and other key opinion leaders.· Working with our PR agency, support and manage the creation and dissemination of press releases, statements, op-eds, paid media, etc.· Alongside the Web Manager, leverage both our public website and online Member portal to elevate our strategic initiatives and research products.· Identify and manage thought leadership opportunities for designated spokespeople, such as media appearances, speaking engagements, LinkedIn strategies, etc.· Support the Advocacy team's goals to generate/amplify grassroots efforts through sustained and strategic communications efforts and the creation of supporting materials.· Support the Meals on Wheels Health team to establish Meals on Wheels as an integral partner in the health care space.· Collaborate across the organization to align external relations initiatives with organizational activities and goals.· Other duties as assigned.QUALIFICATIONS OR SKILLS REQUIRED· 4+ years relevant experience or a combination of relevant degree(s) and 2+ years of relevant experience· Strong writing and editing skills with a passion for translating research, legislative matters and other complex concepts into simple, digestible information tailored for unique audiences and desired outcomes· Self-starter with the ability to take initiative and drive projects to completion with minimal supervision· Strong problem-solving skills with the capacity to handle unexpected challenges and identify innovative solutions· Ability to juggle multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize workload and maintain strong communication with team and internal/external partners· Ability to synthesize and summarize large amounts of technical information and to focus quickly on the essence of an issue· Experience with email marketing and website content management systems· Experience evaluating and reporting on communications outcomes and impacts· Ability to work professionally and collegially within a creative, fast-paced culture that demands excellence and emphasizes teamwork· Knowledge of MS Office Suite· Strong enthusiasm for Meals on Wheel America’s mission. Models the organization’s cultural values of collaboration, accountability, respect, empowerment and service, augmented by a strong commitment to Race Equity, Diversity, and InclusionCandidates meeting 75% or more of the above qualifications should apply.Meals on Wheels America is an Inclusive Workforce/Employer and encourages applications from qualified persons of every race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and disability.