Communications Coordinator

The Communications Coordinator actively supports the efforts to improve HGA’s visibility and reach through online and offline channels. In that role, she/he/they will develop website content, manage social media daily, gather stories and photos that document the work of HGA and its community, manage the organization’s email account and coordinate responses with appropriate staff, and create timely e-blasts promoting programs and services. As a result of her/his/their efforts, HGA will see an increase in membership, donations, and participation in our programs. The position supports and reports to the Executive Director.

Office hours are from 9 AM to 5:30 PM ET, Monday-Friday, with occasional evening and weekend hours. Some travel is required (approximately 2-7 days per year). Physical demands include sitting or standing for extended periods and the ability to lift and carry boxes and equipment up to 40 pounds. This is a remote work-from-home position, but preference will be given to candidates who reside in one of the following states: Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, or Wisconsin.

Major Responsibilities & Duties:

• Maintain a consistent brand and voice in all HGA’s communications.
• Prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the development and management of all marketing and communication initiatives.
• Manage the HGA email by responding or disseminating it to appropriate staff and ensuring follow-up.
• Manage and support the creation of all print and electronic materials, including regular program e-blasts and action alerts; report templates, infographics, and other visual representations of HGA’s work; marketing, development, and solicitation materials as needed; and event announcements, invitations, programs, and signage.
• Maintain HGA’s social media presence, including content creation and curation, marketing programs, and resources, and raising awareness of HGA’s mission and programs by creating and sharing interesting, relevant, and engaging content.
• Identify new and innovative ways to enhance and expand HGA’s social media presence and outreach to various stakeholders.
• Manage HGA’s website updates. Write text, create new pages, and solicit updates from staff.
• Working with the Program Coordinators, manage external evaluations of the effectiveness of all programs and engagement activities.
• Identify strategies to engage with national media outlets, reporters, and social media influencers.
• Coordinate media requests and follow up, while serving as a media contact as needed.
• Prep HGA staff for media appearances and interviews.
• Manage inquiries from outside groups that want a representative from HGA to speak at their upcoming event.
• With the Executive Director, develop public relations strategies for HGA events and announcements as needed.
• Write press releases and send them to appropriate press outlets as needed.
• Maintain a press list with accurate contact information.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of communications activities, engagement levels, and progress.
• Help establish and maintain internal communications to keep staff informed of the work of the organization. Ensure cross-departmental collaboration on communications efforts.
• Provide exemplary and proactive customer service to all internal and external clients such as members, teachers, vendors, board members, etc.
• Answer questions and dispense information about programs, policies, and procedures. Manage and respond to complaints.
• Exercise confidentiality and integrity upon handling personal and financial customer information.
• This list of essential duties, tasks, and responsibilities is not all-inclusive; the individual will perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Meticulous attention to detail and excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Self-motivated with superior time management skills and the capacity to work in a fast-paced organization. The ability to juggle and organize multiple tasks is essential.
• Ability to work independently, but also as a member of a team; a self-starter with a high level of motivation, creativity, and proactivity.
• Flexibility to embrace change and unexpected opportunities.
• A strong instinct to think outside the box and experiment with new ideas.
• Experience with outreach and community building.
• Cultural sensitivity and understanding of diversity.
• Experience building social media channels and executing social media strategies for maximum engagement, particularly for mission-driven non-profits or through cause-based marketing.
• Deep working knowledge of current digital marketing best practices.
• Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic skills; strong ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisor, fellow employees, volunteers, and the general public.
• Technology aptitude and experience with an emphasis on managing computer-based information and data.
• Education and experience in the fiber arts is preferred.

Qualifications:

Qualified applicants may possess any combination of education and experience enabling them to successfully perform the responsibilities of the position. Preferred qualifications are: Bachelor's degree (preferably in Communications, Marketing, Graphic Design, or a related field) from a four-year accredited college/university and 2-3 professional years' experience working in a similar or related position, non-profit experience preferred (internships and other educational experience will be considered). An expert with Canva and Microsoft 365. Experience with social media management/monitoring tools; basic HTML and website publishing, specifically WordPress. Familiarity with CRM and project management software is a plus. Strong teamwork skills to collaborate with staff and the community. Passion for the organization’s mission is a must!

This is a work-from-home position. Employees are expected to have a modern computer with an HD webcam, printer, high-speed internet, and a dedicated workspace without distractions. Dual monitors are recommended but not required. HGA will provide all software, which is 100% web-based (in the cloud), envelopes, paper, printer ink, and a VOIP phone (alternatively employee may use the phone system’s app on their computer or cell phone).