Marketing and Communications Manager

Shelter Youth & Family Services•Arlington Heights, IL

19h•$70,000 - $80,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Manager of Marketing & Communications plays a critical leadership role in advancing Shelter's mission by owning the planning, coordination, and execution of integrated marketing and communications efforts that strengthen awareness, engagement, and support. This role exercises independent judgment, sets priorities for day-to-day Marketing & Communications operations, and regularly makes recommendations that influence organizational strategy, fundraising performance, and public positioning. Reporting to the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, the Manager provides direct supervision and leadership to a small Marketing & Communications team (1.5 FTEs), ensuring high-quality execution, consistent messaging, and adherence to brand and trauma-informed standards. The Manager translates enterprise-level strategy into actionable plans, timelines, and workflows that drive measurable results. This position balances strategic oversight with hands-on leadership, guiding campaigns, content development, and storytelling across digital, print, media, and community channels. A highly collaborative partner, the Manager works closely with Development, Programs, HR, and Outreach to support fundraising campaigns, recruitment efforts, and organizational initiatives, helping amplify Shelter's voice and impact across the communities it serves.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or related field
3-5 years proven experience in marketing and communications, with a focus on strategic planning and campaign management
Strong leadership skills, with the ability to direct and motivate a team
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Strategic thinker with the ability to keep the big picture in focus
Must have a valid Illinois driver's license, automobile, and must submit proof of Illinois auto insurance.
Must complete a Medical and T.B. test.
Must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the latest CDC guidelines
Must be fingerprinted by the State of Illinois and must submit to a full background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
Must submit official educational transcripts from the last school in which a degree was awarded.
Ability to lift 40 lbs.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the nonprofit sector, particularly in child welfare or social services, is preferred
Demonstrated commitment to and understanding of Shelter's mission, vision, and values

Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Collaboration Provide day-to-day leadership, supervision, and performance management for marketing and communications staff, setting clear priorities, expectations, and accountability.
Foster a high-performing, collaborative team culture that encourages professional growth, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Partner closely with the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer to translate strategic direction into executable plans and systems.
Marketing & Communications Strategy Execution Support the planning and execution of annual and multi-channel marketing and communications plans that advance Shelter's mission, fundraising goals, including mass grassroots donor acquisition and retention efforts, workforce needs, and public visibility.
Plan and own campaign management across print, digital, media, and community channels, including timelines, workflows, and quality standards.
Regularly analyze data and insights to proactively identify risks, gaps, and opportunities related to messaging, timing, and audience engagement.
Content Creation & Brand Stewardship Partner closely with the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer to oversee Shelter's content strategy, ensuring consistent, high-quality storytelling across all platforms and audiences.
Review and approve key communications to ensure alignment with Shelter's brand, voice, values, and trauma-informed standards.
Maintain and enforce brand standards, serving as a resource and decision-maker for internal teams.
Oversee and contribute to the creation of compelling content, including newsletters, social media, website updates, press releases, and collateral.
Elevate the stories of children, families, and staff with sensitivity and authenticity.
Digital & Media Engagement Oversee Shelter's social media and digital engagement strategy, setting goals for growth, reach, and engagement.
Leverage digital channels to support audience growth, engagement, and donor conversion , in collaboration with Development and the CMCO.
Support optimization of digital pathways (email, social, website) that encourage action, participation, and giving .
Oversee website content strategy and maintenance to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and alignment with organizational priorities.
Community Engagement & Outreach Partner closely with the CMCO to oversee outreach strategy and efforts that support community engagement, events, and external partnerships through strategic communications
Represent Shelter at select events, panels, or initiatives, as appropriate.
Partner with internal teams to highlight opportunities for involvement and recognition of community supporters.
Organizational Participation Develop and maintain systems, templates, and workflows that strengthen sustainability and reduce reliance on individual staff.
Stay informed on sector trends, best practices, and emerging tools, translating insights into practical recommendations.
Model Shelter's mission, values, and commitment to equity, inclusion, and client-centered care.
Stay informed on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in marketing and communications.
Demonstrate commitment to Shelter's mission, values, and client-centered approach.
The ability to motivate, lead and direct staff
Must be professional, organized, creative and efficient, able to work successfully both individually and as a part of a team
Must be able to not only manage a team to do the work, but at times will need to do the work themselves
Supervise staff