Director of Media and Communication

The Director of Communication and Media serves as the strategic and creative leader responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies that support the mission, vision, and values of the Metropolitan New York Synod. This role oversees internal and external communications, digital media, branding, and public relations to effectively engage congregations, local communities, and broader audiences.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Communication & Planning

• Develop and execute an annual communication and media plan aligned with the synod’s mission, ministry goals, liturgical and secular calendar.
• Collaborate with synod staff to communicate key messages and initiatives with clarity and theological integrity.
• Serve as a communication advisor to leadership on issues of public relations, crisis management, and reputation stewardship.
• Provides a data analysis report of organic and in-site search, email and social media metrics to measure the effectiveness of communication strategies.

Digital & Print Media Management

• Oversee the development and maintenance of the website, email campaigns, live streams, podcasts and social media channels.
• Coordinate the production of weekly e-newsletters, and annual reports.
• Update and optimize web pages living under the mnys.org, following SEO best practices
• Manage all MNYS Congregational Microsites strategy
• Work collaboratively with event planning
• Assists in managing special projects as part of the MNYS Communications Strategy as needed
• Attend and assist at all MNYS events
• Create compelling visual and written content that reflects Lutheran theology and resonates with diverse audiences.
• Work to ensure updated data systems including the regular cleaning of email lists to ensure higher open rates for online communications.
• Attend staff meetings

Media Production

• Direct the recording and live streaming of synod events.
• Train and manage volunteer teams for audiovisual support, especially during worship and events.
• Manage media equipment, software, and digital archives.

Branding & Identity

• Steward the visual and narrative identity of the church/organization in alignment with its Lutheran heritage.
• Ensure consistent messaging, tone, and design across all platforms.
• Guide the use of logos, fonts, imagery, and language that reflects Lutheran theology and values.

Community & Public Engagement

• Foster community awareness and engagement through storytelling, online content, podcasts, press releases, and community partnerships.
• Serve as primary contact for media inquiries and coordinate official statements when needed.
• Support outreach, evangelism, and stewardship efforts through strategic communication.

Key Qualifications:

• 5-10 years of previous experience directing Media and Communications work.
• Familiarity with Lutheran theology and church life, ELCA
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with an understanding of religious language and audiences.
• Proficiency in social media management, website content management (e.g., WordPress), graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite), and audiovisual platforms.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and lead both staff and volunteers.

This Position Description will be reviewed in February 2026 for any needed adjustments.