American Bird Conservancy Position Announcement Director of Public Relations
American Bird Conservancy (ABC) is pleased to announce a vacancy for a Director of Public Relations. This will be a full-time position based at ABC's offices in Washington, D.C. The position is designed to expand ABC external communications. The Director of Public Relations will be responsible for developing a media communications strategy that will increase ABC's visibility. This position requires a broad understanding of ABC's mission, programs, and philosophies. Knowledge of current bird conservation issues in the Americas is strongly preferred. The Director of Public Relations will have a great deal of contact with the press, the public, and ABC staff and Board. This position requires excellent oral and written communications skills. Major Duties * Track ABC project development and success and develop specific stories for media use. * Track bird and bird conservation news and develop relevant stories that can be released by ABC. * Craft press releases and distribute to a broad target audience including media professionals, ABC members, conservation professionals, bird enthusiasts, and the general public. * Develop media outreach strategies to enhance ABC's public profile. * Coordinate text production and editing of ABC's newsletter, Bird Calls. * Develop a strong list of personal media contacts through in person meetings and other outreach efforts. * Maintain a database of ABC media and other external contacts for story distribution. * Work with ABC Web and print publications managers to provide stories for use as needed. * Monitor and maintain records of ABC press coverage that are accessible to all staff. * Explore and enhance opportunities for collaborative communications outreach with other organizations, publications, list serves, web sites, and other communication vehicles. * Assist as needed in improving internal communication mechanisms within ABC. * Assist with other tasks as directed by supervisor. Basic Requirements * An undergraduate degree in the biological sciences, English, or journalism, plus a Masters Degree in communications/media relations or at least 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 targeted audience. * Must be an effective communicator, 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. * Energetic, non-confrontational demeanor; well organized, with the ability to coordinate many tasks and responsibilities. Please send cover letter and resume by September 20, 2009 to: Merrie Morrison Vice President of Operations American Bird Conservancy P.O. Box 249 The Plains, VA 20198 [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>
