Director of Communications

Exodus World Service seeks a talented communications professional to join our energetic and dedicated team and help move the organization to the next level. The ideal candidate will crave collaboration, take initiative, and thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are alike. If this sounds like you, keep reading!

As Director of Communications, you will drive engagement in our mission of assisting volunteers to welcome and befriend refugees. You’ll conceive of and produce impactful content using a range of mediums, including email, web, social, video, and print. You’ll manage diverse projects, build relationships with colleagues across the organization, and wear many hats. You’ll work with a close-knit team in a supportive environment where you’ll be encouraged to lean into your strengths.

If you are experienced in nonprofit communication and are motivated by a mission that helps refugees as they rebuild their lives, this position is for you!

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Map out the big picture. In collaboration with executive director, develop and implement communications strategies and campaigns that achieve specific program, fundraising, and event goals.

2. Create exciting content. Conceive of and produce impactful content across mediums, including web, email, social, video, and print. Ensure integration across platforms.

3. Collaborate with colleagues. Work closely with mobilization, program, and fund development teams to produce materials

4. Inspire and lead. Supervise communications coordinator, including supporting continued professional growth and development.

5. Be part of the Leadership Team. Report to the Executive Director and provide advice and counsel on strategic, management, and administrative issues of importance.

6. Manage a roadmap for success. Manage communications calendar, ensuring quality content (written and visual) is produced and meets deadlines.

7. Keep an eye on the details. Write, edit, and proofread materials with attention to detail and alignment with brand story and brand standards.

8. Be our brand ambassador. Assist staff in maintaining brand and editorial standards. Ensure consistent look, style, and feel for communications across the organization.

9. Manage projects and talent. Provide creative direction and manage relationships with contractors, including graphic designers, photographers, videographers, printers, etc. Includes understanding print and mail house production needs and scheduling.

10. Stay on top of the trends. Oversee key performance indicator reports and keep up with industry trends to ensure effective marketing communications.

11. Innovate. Generate new and creative ideas to increase engagement and grow target audiences.

12. Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Commitment to Exodus World Service’s Christian mission and values.

2. Proven experience with a variety of communications channels, including email, web, social, video, print, and direct mail.

3. Strong project management skills, including experience managing multiple workflows with numerous details in a fast-paced environment.

4. Ability to write compelling content and to edit others’ content.

5. Strong copyediting and proofreading skills; familiarity with AP Style a plus.

6. Strong interpersonal skills, including a positive attitude and a customer service approach toward working with team members.

7. Ability to work well independently and as part of a highly collaborative team.

8. High level of organization, attention to detail, and time management skills.

9. Experience relating to diverse groups of people. Knowledge of refugee and cross-cultural issues a plus.

10. Experience supervising staff and/or freelance creative individuals.

11. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite a plus.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, English, or related field. At least five to seven years’ experience in marketing communications, copy writing, or other content production. Must have portfolio to demonstrate capabilities.

Job Classification:

Full-time exempt. Work generally conducted Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Occasional evening and weekend availability required.

Benefits:

Eligible for paid time off, health insurance, and retirement benefits.

Location:

Exodus World Service office in Park Ridge, IL; must have access to a car for occasional field work in Cook and DuPage counties. Ability to work remotely on occasion as appropriate.