Communications Director

Association of Village Council Presidents•Bethel, AK

About The Position

SUMMARY: The Communications Director leads all communications and outreach efforts for AVCP, serving clients, member tribes, and the public. This role is responsible for developing and managing strategies that promote AVCP’s mission and services.

Requirements

Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, demonstrating clarity, professionalism, and effectiveness in all interactions.
Proven expertise in public relations, with a strong track record of building trust and fostering positive relationships with stakeholders, media, and the community.
Collaborative leadership skills, enabling effective teamwork within the communications department and across other organizational units.
Demonstrated cultural competency, with deep respect for and understanding of the traditions, values, and needs of Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta tribes preferred.
Strategic thinking and adaptability in developing and executing communications initiatives that advance AVCP’s mission.
Proficiency in digital communications, including managing online platforms and leveraging emerging technologies to enhance engagement.
Commitment to continuous learning and professional development within the communications field.
Associate’s Degree in marketing, advertising, journalism, or a related field from an accredited college or university is preferred.
Alternatively, two years of relevant experience in public relations, communications, or marketing may substitute for formal education.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Microsoft Publisher, Outlook, and desktop publishing tools.
Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities.
Some travel will be required.

Responsibilities

Guide the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with AVCP’s mission and values.
Collaborate with the legal department to implement a public relations plan, with a strong focus on outreach to member tribes and clients.
Lead crisis communications and serve as the primary spokesperson during emergencies or sensitive situations.
Supervise communications staff to ensure timely, accurate publications and responses; support their professional development through coaching and training.
Foster a culture of respect and understanding for the traditions, values, and needs of Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta tribes in all communications.
Follow internal guidelines to manage media relations, including evaluating media requests and preparing official statements in line with corporate policies.
Guide the team to expand AVCP’s presence across digital platforms, ensure timely updates to online channels, and develop creative strategies to boost engagement with the organization’s audiences.
Champion initiatives that elevate AVCP’s visibility by empowering the team to pursue opportunities for feature articles, interviews, presentations, and other activities that strategically raise awareness of the organization and its services.
Provide strategic oversight for the planning, development, and distribution of AVCP’s key organizational communications and publications, ensuring consistency, quality, and alignment with the organization’s mission.
Provide strategic leadership in establishing, upholding, and continuously improving data collection standards within the communications department; oversee the use of score cards and reporting processes to ensure high-quality, actionable data supports AVCP’s progress and organizational excellence.
Build and maintain relationships with media representatives, keeping AVCP visible and relevant.
Conduct one-on-one meetings with direct reports and facilitate team meetings to provide support and promote accountability and transparency of communications operations.
Evaluate the performance of direct reports in accordance with AVCP policy.
Work with Finance to prepare and manage a comprehensive budget for communications strategies.
Develop and maintain organization-wide communications policies and standard operating procedures.
Collaborate with other departments to ensure unified messaging and support organizational goals.
Measure and report on the effectiveness of communications initiatives, using data to inform continuous improvement.
Perform other duties as assigned.