Communications and Development Manager

About the Position

The Communications & Development Manager develops, manages, and produces IPNO’s communication strategy (internal and external) and plan in concert with the Executive Director, and is responsible for event production and donor stewardship under the direction of the Development Director. The position requires an individual either proficient in or willing to learn events, media relations, digital and print communications, and nonprofit marketing. The position requires an understanding of and passion for IPNO’s work, and excellent interpersonal communication and project management skills.

Communications Responsibilities

• Media Relations: Draft and distribute press releases, pitch stories to targeted reporters, field media inquiries, develop and manage media contacts, draft talking points and messaging for issues/cases, monitor media for media outreach and other opportunities to engage in order to continually gain a wider and more diverse audience for IPNO’s work. Be creative in directing media campaigns that further the mission of IPNO. Coach staff and clients in media interviews (podcasts, local/national/international TV, print, online, radio).
• Digital Communications: Generate regular digital content with a focus on furthering the mission of IPNO and its various programmatic goals. Be willing to innovate and measure reach and impact. Key digital platforms include website, email, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others.
• Print Materials: Conceptualize, develop and draft print materials such as annual report, newsletter, holiday cards, client/case one-pagers, and other materials. Work with IPNO’s contract graphic designer on all print needs.
• Events: Coordinate, attend, and table at community events and be a spokesperson for IPNO’s mission and work.

Development and Events Responsibilities

• Donor Stewardship: Manage thank you letters/postcards/notes, lapsed donor mailings, donor appreciation efforts, donor management software and online giving platforms.
• IPNO Events: Coordinate IPNO’s annual gala, patron party, regional fundraisers, supporter briefings, client release/exoneration related events, and others. Assist with quarterly board meeting logistics. Work with Client Service Division to coordinate client appearances at IPNO events as needed.
• Volunteers: Recruit and manage volunteers for events. Lead and manage IPNO’s Community Advocates (ICA) with the Chair of ICA, which includes scheduling regular meetings, fielding ICA’s input for events and other collaborative efforts, and making available volunteer opportunities on behalf of IPNO.

** IPNO is a small nonprofit legal office where so, in addition to their primary duties, all staff is expected to assist as necessary with other aspects of IPNO’s work. IPNO is a client-focused office where teamwork and collaboration to ensure IPNO’s overall effectiveness and success is imperative.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), email and calendar management, Dropbox, Google Workspace, Zoom, Slack, Canva, and basic office equipment. Also, some experience with event coordination.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive and resourceful approach to identifying and resolving challenges and developing alternative solutions. Ability to exercise good judgment, discretion, and confidentiality in handling sensitive information. Has strong ownership over tasks, including follow-through, and willing to do what it takes to get the job done.
• Interpersonal: Ability to work effectively with racially and culturally diverse groups of people, including staff, clients and their families, students, volunteers, interns, board members, donors, supporters and community members. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships internally and externally. Strong ability to be diplomatic and receptive to diversity of viewpoints, particularly when working with external partners.
• Organizational Skills: Proven ability to effectively manage multiple tasks, prioritize workloads, and meet deadlines. Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records and files. Able to set goals, manage time and prioritize tasks effectively.
• General Communication: Strong written and verbal skills. Able to draft and edit documents, reports, and correspondence.
• Passion for Non-profit Work: Understanding and appreciation of mission and values of the organization.
• Driver’s License

Helpful but Not Required:

• Familiarity with donor and/or case management software (i.e. Bloomerang), databases, or other relevant tools.
•  Proven track record of organizing and managing large-scale and small-scale events.
• Personal vehicle (for which IPNO fully reimburses work-related mileage).
• Interest and/or experience in criminal and social justice work or space.
• Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree