Communications Manager

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

Under limited direction, this position is responsible for the management and coordination of media, public relations, crisis communications, government affairs, community affairs, special event planning and volunteer management in support of the organization’s plan to achieve annual collection goals for assigned area/region. This position may serve as the primary spokesperson for a location or a specific corporate program. The incumbent is also responsible for working in a highly collaborative manner with divisional leadership and the national marketing and communications team and following national direction for processes and execution.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs all assigned duties in compliance with internal SOPs and external regulations. Brings compliance issues to the attention of management. 
• Assures quality customer service to all customers. 
• Oversees the communications for assigned area/region (e.g., special events, public relations and media, and volunteer management). Provides feedback as part of the national communications strategy. Executes national direction on communications and/or marketing initiatives, complemented by local initiatives. 
• Develops, executes and measures effectiveness of strategic public relations, and/or special events plan to support attainment of collection goals. Assists in developing and monitoring of the communications portion of the department budget. 
• Cultivates and develops new and existing relationships with the media to facilitate organization’s media and public relations objectives. 
• Serves as primary spokesperson and coordinates media contact and communications with other spokespersons in the organization, as appropriate. 
• Recruits, develops and utilizes community-based committee(s) and contacts to assist with awareness, networking, outreach and collaboration. 
• Manages the donor and coordinator recognition programs and events, as well as special blood donation events (such as community-wide or mall blood drives). 
• May supervise staff in some instances. 
• Performs all other duties, at the discretion of management, as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge/Education:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required. 
• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations or Marketing preferred.
• Knowledge of the basic principles of marketing and communications required.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Valid in–state driver’s license required.

Experience:

• Four years related experiencerequired. 
• Two years supervisory experiencepreferred.

Skills/Abilities:

• Must possess the skills and abilities to successfully perform all assigned duties and responsibilities. 
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality. 
• Good supervisory skills with the ability to effectively motivate and develop personnel. 
• Effective oral and written communication skills. 
• Able to effectively motivate volunteers and community committee members. 
• Must be self-motivated and a self-starter with good organization skills. 
• Flexible, able to deal with change and unpredictability. 
• Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings. 
• Provide own vehicle for transportation. 
• Proficient personal computer skills.