Regional Communications Manager

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. It does this through services that are consistent with its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The American Red Cross is the foremost volunteer emergency service organization in the United States with more than 590 chapters nationwide.

The American Red Cross of Illinois is seeking a passionate Regional Communications Manager to work in Chicago. This is a full time, salary exempt position and you must be willing to work on-call (at times) 24/7 as needed (potentially during a major disaster). This position will work from home until restrictions are lifted then day time travel through the region may be around 25%. A valid driver's license and good driving record is required.

The Regional Communications Manager will develop, plan and implement communications and marketing efforts to raise the visibility of the Red Cross, help support mission driven business objectives, and educate communities on how to access Red Cross services. As part of a communications and marketing team, implement the strategic plan that is aligned with broader corporate communication and marketing priorities that support service delivery efforts across all lines of service, including revenue generation across all parts of the organization. Provide support, development and/or leadership guidance to all volunteers. Perform all duties and responsibilities in compliance with standard operating procedures and other applicable Federal, State and local regulations.

Responsibilities:

1. Perform Public Affairs activities supporting regional efforts related to fulfilling donor expectations. Provide communications support for fundraising priorities including the top fundraising events in the region.
2. Support regional Public Affairs throughout the entire disaster cycle. As needed, support Public Affairs efforts across the division, and potentially, on the national level. Ensure that duties are delegated to appropriately trained staff or volunteers. May be asked to deploy physically or virtually to support disaster response operations outside their region or may be tasked to help with public affairs volunteer training and development across the division.
3. Perform media responsibilities by preparing and distributing media materials. Support the regional social media strategy that reflects the regional priorities, aligned with the corporate social media strategy. Produce relevant local content for regional web and social platforms. May act as an on-the-record spokesperson, and supports executives and boards of directors as the faces of the Red Cross through media visibility, interview coaching, preparation, etc.
4. Perform marketing responsibilities by developing brand and creative content to support a variety of activities used in external publications and media placements. May work to secure in-kind PSA placements and coordinates resources necessary for the delivery of online and direct mail/direct response programs in collaboration with Field Marketing.
5. Support executive level internal and external communication initiatives.

Scope:

Individual contributor that is fully proficient in applying subject matter knowledge. Knowledge based acquired from several years of experience in particular area.Work independently and may instruct or coach other professionals.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism or related field required.

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years related experience required.

Skills & Abilities:

• Good understanding of role and industry, apply specialized knowledge. 
• Analyze possible solutions using standard procedures. 
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills required, with proven knowledge of AP Style. 
• Demonstrate effective critical thinking and strategic planning. 
• Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills. 
• Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite. 
• Familiarity with Cision/TrendKite or other media monitoring software. 
• Demonstrated experience managing professional social media platforms for an organization is required. 
• Must be comfortable using website content management systems and other marketing tools. 
• Willingness to serve as a media spokesperson required; experience as a spokesperson preferred. 
• Ability to work on a team. 

Travel:

• Travel may be required 10-25%. May vary by region.

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to speak, read and write Spanish fluently. 
• Combination of candidate’s education and general experience satisfies requirements so long as the total years equate to description’s minimum education and general experience years combined (Management experience cannot be substituted).