The Communications Associate is a new position focused on developing and implementing electronic communications strategies that align with organizational goals and objectives, including strengthening the League’s brand. The successful candidate is a passionate digital marketer with solid Web and social media expertise. Other attributes of the successful candidate are strong writer, efficient time and project manager, organized and detail-oriented, creative and forward-thinking, and a team player. This position offers a terrific opportunity for a professional in the early stages of his/her career to assume important responsibilities that play to their existing strengths, while also providing an environment in which new skills development will be encouraged.
This position reports to the Director of Communications and is based in the Izaak Walton League’s national headquarters in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Day-to-day management of IWLA online communications channels (Web site, social media) and electronic communications (e-newsletter and e-mail blasts).
- Work with in-house and external content experts to edit, write, and disseminate content for multiple Web sites, electronic newsletters, and other communications (electronic and print).
- Under the direction of senior managers, facilitate direct communication with chapter and organizational leaders.
- Develop and implement a social media strategy to support organizational mission and goals.
- Analyze Web site, social media, and e-communications analytics and develop recommendations for improving the effectiveness of each communication tool/vehicle.
- Support advocacy efforts by working with League staff to develop Web-based content and disseminate Action
- Alerts (by email and social media channels). Analyze response rates and develop recommendations for improving performance, including response rates. Use advocacy content for other communications vehicles.
- Provide multimedia support at IWLA national convention and other events.
- Support development of videos and other multimedia content.
- Actively engage with League chapter leaders to support community outreach and Web-based communications, including supporting their use of social media, Web sites, and other electronic communications.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIRED SKILLS
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or relevant field of study and 3-5 years nonprofit communications experience.
- Demonstrated experience with content management systems (Sitefinity, Drupal, and/or Word Press).
- Demonstrated experience with social media management (including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube).
- Demonstrated experience with HTML and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Demonstrated experience with Web-based email tools.
- Experience with video editing a plus but not required.
- Basic understanding of conservation and sportsmen’s issues preferred.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with League staff and members/volunteers.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Well organized and detail oriented.
- Ability to initiate project ideas and independently manage them through to completion.
- A positive, professional, and customer service-oriented attitude.
- Ability to travel. Some meetings and events will require overnight stays.
