Communications Manager

Randall’s Island Park Alliance, Inc.

Job Opening Notice Posting Dates: 10/02/2024 – Until filled

Title: Communications Manager

Department: Administration

Job Type: Full-Time; Year-Round; 40 hours per week; occasional weekends/evenings; Minimum 4 days per week in-person; Exempt

Salary Range: $70,000-$95,000

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package 60 days following date of hire (health insurance, paid time off, 403(b) plan, free parking on-site, etc.)

Work Location: Randall’s Island Park, New York, NY 10035

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Randall’s Island Park Alliance, Inc. (RIPA) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization that works with the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation and local communities to provide an innovative and exciting destination through a wide range of sports venues, public programs, cultural events, and environmental exploration. As the dedicated steward of Randall’s Island Park, the Alliance sustains, maintains, develops, and programs the Park to support the wellbeing of all. RIPA typically has an annual operating budget of $10M, approximately half of which is raised through fundraising.

RIPA is looking for a strategic Communications Manager who is passionate about the mission and can develop and implement creative avenues to capture the Park and engage with the community and key stakeholders. RIPA is seeking a Communications Manager who can merge a traditional marketing approach with unique and out-of-the-box ideas with the goal of maximizing outreach, promotion, fundraising and relationship building. The Communications Manager will oversee the development and communication of messaging of the organization and will oversee internal and external communication strategies, working with all departments. This role is required to report in-person between three to five days per week, depending on seasonal needs and Managers discretion. The Communications Manager will report to the Chief of Staff.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• With oversight from the Chief of Staff and latitude for independent initiative, work to develop and implement marketing and communications campaigns, plans, and strategies to further the mission of the Randall’s Island Park Alliance (RIPA)
• Monitor and measure the effectiveness of all communication including social media and the website using analytics programs including Google analytics
• Oversee a team of two staff members (or less), depending on season
• Brainstorm and implement ways to creatively capture and promote the park, including programming events, passive park usage, environmental interactions, sporting events, etc.
• Work closely with the Programming department to promote events and initiatives
• Work closely with the Development department to maximize on fundraising efforts
• Partner with the organization’s retained PR firm to maximize external communications efforts
• Collaborate with all departments to create and promote content for Park-wide events and activities
• Maintain a strong presence in the Park, connecting with staff, park patrons and general community
• Collaborate with the Chief Director of Planning and Chief Director of Operations regarding signage for the Park and other ad-hoc projects
• Oversee the creation of marketing and communications collateral that provide a cohesive RIPA brand and message
• Utilize social media platforms to promote events and increase engagement, including outreach to media outlets
• Handle internal and external communications with key stakeholders
• Write, and distribute e-mails to over 18K recipients to increase awareness of park and program news, developments, and initiatives
• Prepare all public facing communications, including e-blasts, press releases, newsletters, etc.
• Manage and update the RIPA website regularly, ensuring information, content and imagery are current and accurate
• Liaison with park partners, elected officials, park patrons, etc.
• Communicate with media outlets
• Oversee the creation and publication of print and promotional materials
• Fulfill administrative tasks such as timekeeping for the Communications department and managing the Communications department budget
• Perform all other general tasks as assigned

This job description is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions that an employee in this position may be asked to perform from time to time.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• B.A in Communications, Marketing, or a related field and 5+ years of experience in a Communications oriented role
• Demonstrated track record of successful engagement
• Excellent writing abilities; experience with corresponding with key stakeholders
• Strong verbal communication, with the ability to articulate and advocate RIPA's mission
• Outgoing, personable approach and ability to collaborate and engage a wide range of stakeholders, including staff members, Trustees and key external partners
• Strong ability to multi-task and handle multiple projects and priorities
• Positive, engaging, and high energy approach
• Minimum of two years of experience leading a team
• Understanding and awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
• Experience coordinating cross-departmentally, regarding communications, marketing, and social media needs
• Ability to collaborate and develop and maintain positive working relationships cross-organizationally
• Ability to pivot and shift priorities and focus, when needed
• Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills and strong attention to detail
• Motivated and punctual, able to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• Interest in parks, environment and green spaces

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Communications, Marketing, or a related field
• Graphic design experience
• Photography and videography abilities
• Fluent in Spanish
• Experience working in a non-profit organization
• Valid Driver License

To apply, please complete an application online at:

http://randallsisland.org/about-us/employment-opportunities

The Randall’s Island Park Alliance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and believes in a diverse and an inclusive workspace and environment.

RIPA maintains confidentiality of all applications and therefore will never contact a present employer without prior consent from the applicant.