Public and Community Relations Manager

The Salvation Army Eastern Territory•Portland, ME

About The Position

The Public and Community Relations Manager serves as a key leader in advancing the mission, visibility, and brand of The Salvation Army throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Reporting to the Divisional Director of Advancement, this role provides strategic oversight and hands-on execution of public relations, marketing, digital communications, social media, and special event initiatives that strengthen the organization’s presence, enhance its reputation, and engage donors, corporate partners, sponsors, media partners, and the broader community. This position leads integrated communication efforts that combine media relations, storytelling, digital platforms, sponsorship development, and signature events to effectively communicate The Salvation Army’s impact throughout Northern New England. A key component of this role includes leadership of the Division’s flagship Maine statewide seasonal media campaigns—News Center Maine’s “Coats and Toys for Kids” and WGME Channel 13’s “Joy of Sharing.” These high-profile Thanksgiving and Christmas initiatives require close coordination with media partners, Salvation Army officers, Community Relations and Development staff, Service Units, sponsors, and community stakeholders to ensure brand alignment, statewide and divisional participation, distribution, secured sponsorships, and measurable impact. Working in close collaboration with the Divisional Multimedia Manager, the Public and Community Relations Manager ensures consistent messaging, strategic visibility, professional execution across all communication channels, and sponsorship fulfillment, while serving as a trusted ambassador for The Salvation Army throughout Northern New England.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in event management, public relations, communications, marketing, project management, or a related field.
5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in event coordination, fundraising, public and community relations, or a related role.
Proven ability to plan and execute large-scale events, including project management of logistics, budgets, and volunteer teams and staff.
Comfortable and knowledgeable in media relations and press release writing.
Strong written and verbal communication skills including public speaking.
Comfortable and knowledgeable in engaging with diverse stakeholders, including donors, sponsors, media, service organizations and associations, and volunteers.
Works effectively in team environments and builds positive relationships with colleagues and external partners.
Able to collaborate effectively with Divisional Multimedia Manager and Salvation Army officers/staff to execute campaigns and events.
Comfortable and knowledgeable in using social media platforms and digital content creation tools.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with Adobe Creative Suite.
Creative approach to planning and promoting events, with the ability to proactively address challenges and find solutions.
Mission-Driven: Passion for advancing The Salvation Army’s mission and serving the community.
Adaptable: Flexible in responding to changing priorities and event requirements.
Professionalism: Represents the organization with integrity, excellence, and enthusiasm in all settings.
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for events.
Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout the Division.
Comfortable and knowledgeable regarding The Salvation Army’s mission, values, and programs.