Senior Communications Specialist

The Senior Communication Specialist will lead and executes strategic communication initiatives for Gateway Foundation.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to promote Gateway Foundation's mission, programs, and achievements.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with media outlets, influencers, and key stakeholders to secure positive coverage and build brand awareness.
• Create compelling and targeted content for press releases, website, social media, newsletters, internal communications and other platforms.
• Manage and safeguard Gateway Foundation’s image and reputation by implementing initiatives to address public perception, mitigate negative sentiment, and enhance positive brand representation.
• Oversee the planning and execution of events, conferences, and other public relations activities.Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with organizational goals.
• Monitor media trends and industry news to identify opportunities and risks, providing timely insights to leadership.
• Develop, manage, and maintain targeted local and national media lists, contacts, and influencers to enhance the organization's media presence and ensure swift, accurate outreach during crisis communications and urgent response scenarios.
• Measure and analyze the effectiveness of communication strategies and adjust plans accordingly.
• Stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends in public relations and communications.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• 5+ years’ experience in communications and public relations, preferably in the nonprofit or healthcare sector.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with an ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated success in securing positive media coverage and managing media relationships.
• Proficiency in using various communication tools, social media platforms, and content creation software.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to align communication efforts with organizational goals.
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across departments.
• High ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the organization's image.

Benefits at Gateway Foundation:

Health and Wellness:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
• Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums
• Employee assistance programs focused on mental health 

Financial wellbeing:

• 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match 
• Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Gateway
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) 

Flexibility and time off:

• 18 paid time off days per year – accrual rates increase with years of service
• 9 paid company holidays
• Work-life-balance 

Personal Development:

• Training & Development Programs
• Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year
• eLearning access to online courses that provide CEU’s and job-related training
• Clinical Supervision: Formal and informal guidance