Please circulate. Thanks. American Bird Conservancy Position Description Director of Communications
The Director of Communications is a full-time position with American Bird Conservancy (ABC) at their offices in Washington, D.C., overseeing media relations, publications, web and electronic communications, internal communications, and IT. The Director of Communications is responsible for managing up to four other staff members, setting priorities and direction for ABC communications, and achieving long-term communications goals. This position requires significant abilities and experience in communications, preferably within the NGO community, a broad understanding of ABC's mission and philosophies, and a clear vision for ABC's future place in the public consciousness and compelling ideas on how to achieve it. Knowledge of current bird conservation issues in the Americas is strongly preferred. Major Duties 1. Coordinate and increase ABC outreach to US and international media outlets. This includes developing strategies to achieve the greatest earned media potential, generating and distributing press releases, and cultivating media contacts. 2. Create new methods and further develop existing strategies for expanding ABC communications to its members, other constituents, and the general public to maximize the organization's public profile and recognition of its conservation achievements. 3. Oversee the timely production of ABC's major publications, including scheduling, content, design, and distribution. 4. Oversee the management and development of ABC websites, and coordinate integrated electronic communications to ABC constituents in tandem with ongoing conservation campaigns and fundraising activities. 5. Explore and enhance opportunities for collaborative communications outreach with other organizations. 6. Oversee and enhance internal communication mechanisms within ABC. 7. Supervise the organization's computer systems and networking to ensure that staff are able to function consistently in the most efficient way possible. 8. Assist the Director of Membership in developing innovative ways of expanding ABC's membership roster, and work with the Director of the Bird Conservation Alliance to assist in expanding BCA membership and effectiveness. Basic Requirements . An undergraduate degree in the biological sciences, English, or journalism, plus a Masters degree in communications/media relations or four years relevant communications experience. . Proven experience and ability in communicating with the press. . Proven experience and ability in coordinating media campaigns, including writing press releases. . An understanding of electronic communications systems and how they can be used most effectively to reach a broad, targeted audience. . Must be an effective communicator, both written and oral, able to synthesize copious, complex, and diverse material into information that ABC constituents will find understandable, engaging, and compelling. . Ability to identify and act on useful outreach opportunities. . Experience managing publications to regular deadlines. . Energetic, non-confrontational demeanor, proven managerial experience, and well organized, with the ability to coordinate many tasks and responsibilities. Please send cover letter and resume to: Merrie Morrison Vice President of Operations American Bird Conservancy P.O. Box 249 The Plains, VA 20198 [EMAIL PROTECTED]
