Communications Associate

DESCRIPTION

ABOUT US

The Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project (MAIP) is a 501(c)(3) organization that works to prevent and correct the convictions of innocent people in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. MAIP has one of the highest success rates in the country for exonerating those who have been wrongfully convicted, helping to secure the release or exoneration of 45 men who spent more than 889 years in prison for crimes they didn’t commit. MAIP has also helped pass 20 laws that would prevent or make it easier to correct wrongful convictions.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project (MAIP) is seeking a talented and dedicated Communications Associate to join our team. This position plays a vital role in creating and delivering impactful communications to support our mission of criminal justice reform and correcting and preventing wrongful convictions in DC, Maryland and Virginia. The Communications Associate will work closely with the Chief Integrated Marketing Officer to develop and execute content strategies that promote the organization's work, engage stakeholders, create and sustain donor funnels and raise awareness of the brand.

Reporting directly to the Chief Integrated Marketing Officer, the Communications Associate is responsible for creating and managing content across a variety of channels, including print, digital, and social media. This role focuses on writing, editing, media outreach, and social media engagement to effectively communicate MAIP's mission, programs, and impact. In close partnership with the Chief Integrated Marketing Officer and exonerees, the Communications Associate will co-design authentic storytelling that elevates lived experiences, shares diverse perspectives, and inspires audiences to deepen their understanding of the realities of innocence work and take meaningful action in support of justice. The Communications Associate will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure consistent messaging, amplify the voices of those directly impacted by wrongful convictions, and increase awareness of the organization's work and its impact.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Exoneree/Impacted Persons Storytelling: Partner with the Chief Integrated Marketing Officer and exonerees/impacted persons to co-design and develop authentic, trauma-informed stories that center lived experiences, elevate diverse perspectives, and inspire outside audiences to deepen their understanding of the realities of wrongful convictions while motivating financial engagement, advocacy, and support for MAIP's mission.
• Content Creation: Develop and write high-quality content for a variety of materials, including press releases, newsletters, news summaries, event announcements, and promotional materials. Ensure all content is aligned with MAIP’s messaging, tone, and goals.
• Editing and Proofreading: Review and edit communication materials for accuracy, clarity, tone, and style, ensuring consistency with organizational standards before distribution.
• Social Media Management: Oversee MAIP’s social media presence, developing engaging content, scheduling posts through Hootsuite, and analyzing performance metrics to enhance audience engagement and awareness of MAIP’s work.
• Email Campaigns: Manage and execute email campaigns by writing compelling email content, managing contact lists, and tracking results to optimize future outreach efforts.
• Media Research: Conduct research on media coverage related to MAIP and monitor trends in criminal justice reform. Identify opportunities for media outreach and assist in building and maintaining relationships with media outlets.
• Communications Planning: Assist in the development of comprehensive communications plans and strategies, working closely with the Chief Integrated Marketing Officer to ensure alignment with MAIP’s fundraising and advocacy goals.
• Content Delivery Across Mediums: Create content that can be adapted and delivered across various formats, including digital platforms, print, video, and email, to ensure it resonates with diverse audiences.
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with internal teams, including development, legal, and advocacy departments, to ensure messaging consistency and effective dissemination of key communications to stakeholders.

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

• Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to create clear, engaging, and persuasive content across different media formats.
• Experience managing social media accounts and campaigns, with an understanding of social media best practices and engagement metrics.
• Familiarity with email marketing platforms such as Constant Contact and the ability to manage email campaigns from creation to analysis.
• Solid research skills, with the ability to track media coverage, analyze trends, and identify new opportunities for outreach.
• Proven ability to assist in the development of communications strategies and implement them effectively.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Demonstrates high emotional intelligence (EQ) by effectively navigating interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds, showing empathy, understanding, and respect for varying perspectives, and adapting communication styles to foster positive relationships and collaborative environments.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• A Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field is required.
• Previous experience in a communications or marketing role, especially involving writing, social media management, and digital communications, is highly desirable.
• Experience with media relations, content creation, and managing email marketing campaigns is a plus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The Communications Associate will primarily work in a hybrid office environment, utilizing digital tools and communication platforms to support MAIP’s objectives. This position requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. Occasional travel may be necessary for events or meetings.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a cause that advocates for the wrongfully convicted and works toward positive change in the criminal justice system. The ideal candidate will bring creativity, strong communication skills, and a passion for justice to their work in a fast-paced, mission-driven organization.

The Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project (MAIP) is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are dedicated to recruiting, hiring, and retaining the most qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Our equal employment policy extends to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, compensation, benefits, training, promotions, transfers, job assignments, and terminations. MAIP strongly encourages applications from women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

This job description is intended to outline the key responsibilities and qualifications for the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all tasks, skills, or duties that may be required.