Communications Manager

Native American Youth And Family Center•Portland, OR

22d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Communications Manager will manage and execute NAYA’s communications strategy and initiatives to uplift the organization’s mission and advance its programs. The Communications Manager will work closely with the Director of Development and Communications to set communications policy and strategy, including crisis communications and media relations, and manage the day-to-day functions of the communications coordinator and/or program staff and other collaborators. The Communications Manager is a capable and creative writer, responsible for writing and managing content across multiple platforms to reach, retain, and engage current and new audiences. The successful candidate will plan and manage a range of outreach materials, social media, public relations, and communication strategies to increase awareness and support of NAYA programs and events, maintaining clear messaging and brand throughout.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in related field, such as journalism, communications or marketing
Understanding of development, fundraising and nonprofit organizations
Knowledge of Native American history, an understanding of the diversity of the local American Indian/Alaskan Native community and issues surrounding the urban Indian experience
Minimum 3 - 4 years related professional experience
Experience working with websites and managing standard social media platforms
Excellent written communication skills and copyediting abilities; nuanced understanding of written and visual messaging
Highly organized; experienced in developing processes and procedures, strategies and campaigns
Ability to take initiative and work creatively, launching new ideas or driving process improvements
Ability to work quickly, independently and creatively under pressure
Protection of confidential information and materials
Ability to work independently as well as a part of a team
Knowledge of AP style
Proficient computer skills including: Wordpress, MailChimp, Microsoft Office Suite and HTML
Valid Oregon or Washington state driver license or must be able to obtain one upon hire (must be eligible to be an insured driver under NAYA Family Center’s liability insurance policy which requires an Oregon or Washington)
Successful completion of a background investigation (including a fingerprint criminal history check)

Nice To Haves

Experience working within diverse populations (specifically with the urban and reservation Native American population, including working within a tribe, board, or other organization) strongly preferred
Graphic design skills and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite preferred

Responsibilities

Develop an annual communications plan in collaboration with the Director of Development and Communications to set annual goals
Develop and maintain organizational voice, key messages, brand strategy, and style guides, and ensure consistent use throughout the organization
In partnership with the Director of Development and Communications, coordinate NAYA’s media strategy and crisis communications response
Collaborate with the leadership team to design and implement organization-wide expectations and procedures for gathering stories, photos, and other content required to support communications efforts
Oversee and participate in the creation of all organizational outreach materials developed for annual and major donors, including solicitation campaigns and letters, brochures and newsletters
Strategically utilize website/blog and social media to increase levels of engagement with the organization, grow its base of supporters, inviting interest and participation in Native American culture
Support the planning and execution of the organization’s annual fundraising events with related messaging, materials, and promotion
Develop media plans, establish relationships with relevant media outlets, and write press releases
Manage other communications and public relations activities as they arise
Consistently produce high-quality deliverables on a timely basis
Other duties as assigned by the Director of Development
Supervise, guide and support Communications Coordinator
Set individual annual performance goals and provide feedback, support, and accountability towards goals
Support staff’s professional development and learning goals to grow in their roles
Understand and adhere to confidentiality
Represent NAYA with the utmost professionalism at community events and other public relations opportunities
Participate actively in cross-departmental team projects as directed by the Director of Development
Contribute to fostering a safe and secure environment for community members and staff