Communications and Public Relations Manager Job in Silver Spring 20603, Maryland Us

 

 Communications and Public Relations Manager

 

Hostelling International USA (HI-USA) is a large, national nonprofit organization headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, whose mission is to promote intercultural understanding and exchange through experiential travel.  Founded in 1934, HI-USA delivers its mission through a network of 60 hostels, educational programming, and engagement with local community members and travelers.

This is a very exciting time for HI-USA as we unify 26 local councils and the national office into a single unified organization.  With unification, HI-USA will have the consolidated resources to implement a far-reaching new plan of organizational growth and development.  The unification process is expected to take about three years, and will require a thoughtful and consistent focus on internal communications.  At the same time, as a growing organization HI-USA seeks to expand its external public relations activity.

Overall Responsibility

The Communications and Public Relations Manager has responsibility for developing and managing effective internal and external communications.   To start, about 60% of position time is expected to support internal communications, with 40% focused on external communications.  As organizational unification wraps up, external communications will be a proportionately larger focus.   The successful candidate will be a key contributor in developing HI-USA brand and message.

Reports to:  Vice President, Advancement (this newly created position will be filled in mid-2012)

Direct Reports:  None.   Works closely with Communications and Public Relations Specialist position (to be filled) in Programs Division.

Responsibilities

General

·         Determine the guiding principles, format, content, and timing of key internal and external announcements; develop materials as needed such as blast emails, FAQ’s or e-newsletters.

·         Provide communications advice and support to other Advancement and externally-facing functions, especially marketing, partnerships, fund development, and initiatives by the CEO.

Internal Communications

·         Execute a communications plan around HI-USA restructuring and general organizational information distribution, with consultant support.

·         Manage internal communications with stakeholders regarding unification progress, working closely with the Vice President of Human Resources and the CEO, and ensuring channels for two-way engagement. 

·         Compile, maintain and manage internal communications lists and calendars using data bases and other software.

·         Establish and publicize stakeholder feedback channels.

·         Use intranet and social media as tools for effective internal communications and engagement.

Public Relations

·         Work with Marketing Director to develop and execute a public relations plan to further HI-USA strategy and engage external audiences.

·         Draft, secure approval for, and finalize press releases and other media materials; designate and support appropriate organizational spokespersons, offering coaching or media training as needed.

·         Compile and maintain national and regional media lists on an ongoing basis using media software and other resources.

·         Pitch HI-USA news, activities and events to print, broadcast and online outlets.

·         Submit copy and information for the organization’s annual report.

·         Respond to media inquiries and requests.

·         Develop a crisis communications plan and assure periodic training and preparedness.

Regional Communication Assistance

·         Provide public relations, media relations and communication support to regional staff.

·         Monitor success of local communications efforts and supply targeted support to those markets that lack strong media presence.

·         Respond to requests for marketing and communications materials.

·         Execute other region-related communications and public relations projects as needed.

Online Communications

·         Brainstorm and write general copy for hiusa.org.

·         Drive traffic to major social media platforms, to increase general organizational visibility and raise funds online:

o        Promote current HI-USA news and events/programs on Facebook and Twitter.

o        Drive traffic to HI-USA’s YouTube channel.

o        Use additional social media platforms to spread HI-USA message to appropriate audiences.

Other

·         Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education Experience

·         4-year bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or a related field required; advanced degree preferred

·         4-7 years relevant business experience in communications.   Previous experience in a non-profit setting preferred.

·         Experience in a multi-unit, geographically diverse organization preferred.

·         Exceptional oral and written communications skills.  Experience with a variety of formats, including newsletters, news releases, scripts, reports and web-based.

·         Working knowledge of relevant office software programs and social networking platforms; experience with media software a plus.

 

Travel Location

 

·         Up to 25% travel required

·         Silver Spring, Maryland; location flexible for qualified internal candidates.

 

Leadership Skills

 

·         Proven track record of results managing multiple priorities with a diverse team.

·         Ability to create, communicate, and achieve HI-USA’s vision and purpose.

·         Demonstrated behavior consistent with HI-USA ethics and values.

·         Solid organizational agility; demonstrated understanding of working successfully in a matrix organization.

 

Application

To apply, please send 1) your resume, 2) a detailed cover letter, and 3) salary history to Careers.cprm@hiusa.org