Communications Director

Summary of Job:

Raise profile in local and national communities; expand the base of contacts within the news media; actively promote programs, fundraising efforts, events and legislative efforts; develop and implement external communication strategies. Duties also include coordination of outreach to media, corporations, elected officials, and other key constituencies.

Essential Functions:

• Manage small communications team and Call Center
• Prepare and submit monthly department reports
• Ability to create and maintain communications budget
• Oversee internal communications efforts
• Assist with government relations
• Creation, execution and measurement of public relations plans that directly impact the organization's strategic plans
• Design and implement marketing plans, including media buying
• Provide broad marketing support across the whole organization including fundraising, programs, and legislation
• Draft, edit and manage the design and production of marketing and collateral materials. This includes writing for internal and external publications; working with writers, photographers, designers, and printers to produce print and electronic publications
• Oversee all aspects of website content and maintenance, working with Blackbaud Net Community
• Produce regular email communications including a monthly newsletter
• Help increase online inquiries, memberships, donations and community building
• Establish and maintain a consistent organizational image and branding throughout all publications and promotional materials
• Manage all aspects of media relations, including, but not limited to: maintaining media list, monitoring and tracking news coverage, pitching stories, creating press material, gaining news coverage, crisis communication
• Schedule and maintain regular weekly media appearances including providing topical information to producers and securing knowledgeable guest speakers related to animal welfare or upcoming events
• Oversee all aspects of crisis communication, including serving as PIO in the event of a hurricane
• Oversee all aspects of social media
• Treat all animals and clients humanely, professionally, properly, and with compassion at all times, regardless of the situation or circumstance
• Maintain a professional and friendly demeanor and provide good customer service
• Works courteously and cooperatively with other staff members and volunteers
• Maintain confidentiality regarding all cases and Louisiana SPCA information
• Report to work in extreme weather conditions such as but not limited to hurricanes, flooding and ice/snow
• Perform other duties as needed and assigned

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing or Communications or related area; i.e. English
• Two to five years professional experience in this field.
• Success creating and managing marketing plans with revenue and audience generation results

Minimum Qualifications (or skills and knowledge):

• Must be able to pass a criminal background check and pre-employment physical and substance screening
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, verbal, and written skills required.
• Knowledge of InDesign, Photoshop, Blackbaud Net Community a plus.
• Ability to meet multiple deadlines and balance multiple projects.
• Must have flexible schedule and be available on weekends, nights, or as needed

Physical Requirements:

• Should not be allergic to animals; must be able to work around all animals
• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds; push and pull heavy objects; bend, twist, reach; perform strenuous physical activities including frequent walking and running, standing, bending and stooping

Working Environment:

• Potentially subject to animal bites and scratches
• Works in an area with a high noise level

To apply: Complete online application.