Communications Manager

About Custom Collaborative

Custom Collaborative (CC) is a US-based social enterprise non-profit that trains, mentors, and advocates for and with no/low-income and immigrant women to build the skills necessary to achieve economic success in the sustainable fashion industry and broader society. We enrich women and their communities by preparing those facing high barriers to employment with skills to own, operate, and contribute to fashion and design businesses at a high economic, social, and environmental standard. Custom Collaborative envisions a global apparel industry in which garment makers are fairly compensated for their labor and consumers have access to well-made, sustainably sourced clothes that fit and affirm all bodies.

Job Summary:

The Communication Manager is a key team member responsible for developing and executing communication strategies. This position requires a strong aptitude for written communication, social media expertise, and effective data analysis. A deep understanding of marketing and branding concepts and the ability to translate ideas into actionable plans is essential. Additionally, the Communications Manager will produce well-crafted press materials, including articles and op-eds, featuring the founder of Custom Collaborative, Ngozi Okaro, for publication. This includes facilitating interviews, panel discussions, and media outlets.

Content Areas Include:

Gender Equity, Entrepreneurship, Human Rights, Cooperative Business, Low/Zero waste protocols, Environment, Social Justice, Policy & Advocacy

Functions and Responsibilities:

Strategic:

• Set and manage an omni channel communication strategy.
• Develop and implement communication plans that translate conceptual ideas into actionable, results-oriented strategies.
• Promote thought leadership and elevate the organization's profile as an industry authority.
• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with media outlets, journalists, and influencers, and coordinate media engagement, including interviews and panel discussions.
• Leverage social media expertise to develop and execute strategies, cultivating an engaged online community.
• Utilize data analysis to continually measure and evaluate the effectiveness of communication initiatives, making necessary data-driven adjustments for optimal results.

Content Creation:

• Determine the infrastructure and platforms required to provide an integrated approach to content and messaging delivery.
• Maintain a high standard of written communication, ensuring that all written materials, including press releases, articles, and social media content are clear, concise and compelling.
• Produce well-crafted press materials, including articles, op-eds, and interviews that showcase the organization’s leadership and expertise.
• Possess a deep understanding of marketing and branding concepts to consistently support the organization’s image and message.

Leadership:

• Manage a team of part-time communication staff, providing direction, guidance, and support to achieve strategic objectives.
• Manage rebranding teams to ensure the consistent representation of the organization's brand in all communications.
• Manage public relations efforts that elevate the organization's profile, positioning it as an industry thought leader.
• Manage the communication budget efficiently to ensure the allocation of resources for maximum impact.
• Stay current with industry trends and innovative communication methods to keep the organization at the forefront of effective communication strategies.

Qualifications:

• Exceptional written and verbal communications skills (English)
• Strong copy-editing skills; ability to communicate clearly and effectively to various audiences for different objectives
• Intellectually curious
• Wisdom and confidence to ask questions
• Three years of experience working as a creative communications professional
• Use of social media dashboards/management tools and social/web analytics software (Google Analytics) and experience translating data into useable strategy
• Experience with Canva and/or Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop); presentation design and visual communications collateral creation a plus
• Time and task management skills; attention to detail
• Ability to perform tasks to a high standard
• Demonstrated ability to engage a diverse range of people with interest and respect
• Excellent organization and time management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and respond professionally to new events and priorities
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and comfortable working in a small, collaborative team environment
• Confident, dependable & diligent

Desired Characteristics:

• Fluency in language other than English
• Experience in one or more of CC’s business-related areas (eg: fashion, vocational education, entrepreneurship, sustainability)
• Enthusiasm for CC’s mission
• Strong communications skills, ability to prioritize

Terms and Compensation

The Communications Manager is a full -time position reporting to the Director of Development and Communications. Pay range is $65,000 to $75,000.

Benefits include generous and flexible paid time off; paid family and medical leave; healthcare plan for employees, dependent children, partners and spouses; supplementary funds to support staff wellness and ongoing professional development.

Work Model: Hybrid (3 days in-office, two days remote)

We understand the value of work-life balance, and we support it by providing two remote work days each week. This flexibility allows you to choose a work setting that suits your personal and professional needs. You may be required to work more than three days in the office in a given week, depending on events, visits, and meetings.

We are looking for candidates who thrive in a hybrid environment, demonstrating both the ability to collaborate effectively in person and the self-motivation required to excel when working remotely.

How to Apply

Please submit a cover letter and resume to apply@customcollaborative.org. Candidates will be evaluated based on their writing abilities through a required writing project in the selection process.

Custom Collaborative is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, HIV status, socio-economic status, marital status, veteran status, or any other category protected by local, state, or federal laws.