Communications Manager

The Communications Manager will refine and execute CDI’s communication plan. He or she will serve as a key champion of CDI and ensure that key stakeholders have the ability to deliver stories and messages that illustrate first-hand evidence of the organization’s impact. He or she is responsible for CDI’s internal and external communications including media relations, social and digital media and executive engagement. The Communications Manager reports to the president & CEO, is part of the leadership team, ideally has five to seven years of experience, and works closely with the development and programs teams. This is a full-time, exempt, position with a regular schedule, periodic evening and weekend hours and does not supervise a team. We are looking for a knowledgeable, dynamic, entrepreneurial professional who is collaborative and service oriented. Please take a look at the key responsibilities and qualifications to learn more about this role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Refine and implement annual and long-term communication plans including key metrics that track progress and document impact.
• Oversee all of CDI’s branding and the continued development of the CDI brand.
• Develop targeted media list and write press releases and feature articles for publication.
• Develop a CDI media/marketing kit including written pitches and collateral marketing pieces for various audiences.
• Develop a social media strategy and maintain an ongoing social media presence for CDI.
• Write social media content, newsletters, brochures, event collateral and other documents as necessary.
• Manage all deadlines and ensure all communications work and interactions are tracked.
• Maintain communication with CDI stakeholders, including donors, the Board, Scholars and their families, and prospective supporters.
• Facilitate the relationship between CDI and external communication vendors and consultants.
• Prepare reports for the President and the Board on visibility campaigns and their results.
• Other duties, as necessary.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required in a relevant field and a minimum of five to seven years of experience developing and implementing communications and marketing plans.
• A passion for CDI’s mission and an understanding of the transformative power of higher education.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, Board, donors and Scholars.
• Superior attention to detail
• Extensive writing, copy-editing, and editing experience.
• Excellent oral communication and presentation skills including the ability to analyze and communicate about data.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to meet multiple deadlines, work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Exceptional relationship manager both within and outside of the organization.
• Familiarity with the education trade press and proven results in pitching.
• Experience maintaining websites and blogs and producing newsletters.
• Understanding of Google analytics and proficient in Adobe Suite programs.
• Oversee and maintain social media platforms ensuring fresh content.
• Proficiency in Excel, Word and database software.
• Knowledge of higher education landscape preferred.
• High energy, dynamic, positive personality.