Communications Specialist
Listed on April 5, 2024
Job Title/Department: Communications Specialist
Employee Classification: Non-Exempt, Full-Time
Employee Reports To: Director of Marketing and Events
Job Purpose
The Communications Specialist works in collaboration with the marketing, philanthropy, and membership teams to strategize, write and promote content for all marketing and communications platforms with the goal of advancing the philanthropic message and mission of the Cleveland Zoological Society. The Communications Specialist will be a strong storyteller who can develop content for various audiences and create segmented communication workflows for the Zoo Society’s varied donor bases with the goal of increasing engagement and producing revenue. This position works with all departments in the Zoo Society and the Board of Directors and should be able to work independently to make decisions, meet deadlines and deliver the highest quality content.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Write regular blogs and lead content planning and writing for quarterly member magazine and monthly member and donor newsletters
- Research and write content for fundraising proposals on animal care, international conservation, capital projects and education initiatives supported by the Zoo Society
- Lead content planning and writing for annual report and annual impact statements
- Work with marketing and philanthropy departments, write content and strategize segmented outreach on all platforms for fundraising programs including annual giving campaigns, membership campaigns, program-related campaigns and more, with the goal of increasing engagement and revenue
- Interview Zoo staff and Zoo Society donors for content; conduct interviews on video when appropriate
- Develop press releases to promote the Board of Directors and philanthropic gifts; serve as point person for local media
- Assist with the development of presentations for public events and meetings
- Assist the CEO with personal communications including writing, proofreading or executing donor-centric outreach
- Any other related duties as assigned
Qualifications, Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, English, writing, journalism, marketing or related field; similar previous work experience or internships
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; must be detail-oriented, well-organized and able to juggle both short-term assignments and longer project timelines
- Strong experience in social media and web site content management; previous experience in both social media and email marketing strategies
- Ability to work well with both internal colleagues and external stakeholders, calmly, efficiently and independently in a dynamic and collaborative environment while managing multiple projects and deadlines
- Proficiency in computer software programs; Microsoft Office Suite, social media platforms
- High standards of excellence and commitment to honesty and accuracy
- Commitment to the mission, values, goals, and success of the Cleveland Zoological Society
Working Conditions
Work is performed in an office setting located at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. This is a position that requires approximately 40 hours of work per week. Occasional work outside normal business hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends (all overtime hours would need to be approved). Generally, work is performed in an office environment and may require meetings outside the office. There is an opportunity to work from home one (1) day a week.
Physical Requirements
Regularly sits at desk or workstation. Frequently moves around facility to coordinate work. Reasonable accommodations can be made to employees with qualified disabilities who can perform the essential functions of the job, so long as there is no undue hardship created upon the organization or other employees within the organization.
Supervision Received
This position is regularly supervised by the Director of Marketing and Events who will provide ongoing direction and instruction.
Direct Reports
N/A
How to Apply
Please submit all resumes to: HR@clevelandzoosociety.org
Conclusion
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and the general nature and level of work performed within this job. However, this job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, qualifications, or physical demands associated with the position and may be modified from time to time.
The Cleveland Zoological Society provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
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