FPWA, a leading anti-poverty, social policy and advocacy organization fighting for economic equity for all New Yorkers, seeks an experienced and dynamic Director for Communications & Marketing to lead the development and execution of its internal and outward facing communications and to grow its brand identity and visibility.
Since 1922, FPWA has driven groundbreaking policy reforms to better serve those in need. We work to dismantle the systemic barriers that impede economic security and well-being, and strengthen the capacity of human services agencies and faith organizations so New Yorkers with lower incomes can thrive and live with dignity.
FPWA engages in research and analysis-driven policymaking and advocacy; program and practice testing to inform policy change; strengthening capacity to build more effective and responsive organizations; and, raising awareness, educating and mobilizing on the issues and policies that most impede economic security and well-being. In actualizing this work, the work of the Director and communications team are integral to not only continually developing and telling the story of FPWA’s 100-year history and its unique contribution to social and economic justice in New York, but fundamentally powering our work of awareness building, narrative change, and advocating for true systems change.
The Director reports to the Chief Executive Officer and Associate Executive Director. The Director will work closely with policy, program, membership, and development colleagues to increase the visibility of FPWA's work and support the engagement of donors, media, policymakers, influencers, and other key stakeholders important to FPWA’s mission. In support of FPWA’s strategic direction, they’ll work with event execution and all forms of media, including press releases and digital campaigns, print materials, social media, audio and video, etc. to elevate FPWA work and visibility. The Director manages the Communications and Marketing Manager.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Continually develop and execute a strategic communications and marketing plan that promotes FPWA’s brand, advances its mission and program and policy efforts, and creates engagement and heightened visibility among key stakeholders.
- Create both messaging in collaboration with colleagues and tools to cultivate and enhance FPWA’s relationships with target audiences, including the media, donors, policymakers and influencers. Assets under the Director’s responsibility include but are not limited to printed materials; e-communications; video; social media; website and other online assets; talking points, presentations and speeches; press releases and media advisories; op-eds; and other promotional materials.
- Work closely with the Executive Office and Chief Development Officer, to develop and execute a clear brand identity for FPWA. Work with all parts of the organization to ensure that brand guidelines are followed in their work.
- Strengthen FPWA's internal communications so that staff are more effectively educated/informed about various initiatives, programs, etc., which in turn enhances their communication infrastructure and ability to externally communicate with stakeholders.
- Development and production of organizational collateral, including but not limited to: the annual report; newsletters and e-letters; policy and program briefs; opinion pieces; press statements; advocacy materials; and event collateral. Ensure that the communications team is working across departments effectively and collaboratively.
- Cultivate and enhance FPWA's relationships with the media outlets, journalists, and influencers in the media space. Manage and build FPWA’s media contacts.
- Build FPWA’s brand and elevate its mission at the national , state, and local level. Be proactive and educated on policy and advocacy issues related to the organization’s mission
- Manage leadership participation in press conferences and media events, including relevant research, advance work, speech and talking points, and event-related remarks.
- Serve as media liaison and an organization spokesperson in consultation with senior leadership.
- Ensure all branded external communications are accurate and timely, and meet internal, legal and brand/image guidelines.
- Manage consultant relationships, including but not limited to: PR, media relations, and direct response firms; design and printing vendors; website developers.
- Develop systems, policies and processes to ensure efficient operation of an effective communication and marketing effort.
- Direct and manage the work of the Communications and Marketing Manager, communications interns, and any and all other communication staff.
Requirements
- BA/BS required.
- Requires a minimum of eight (8) years in progressively responsible positions in marketing, public relations, communications or a similar discipline. Experience in policy, advocacy and research settings with a particular focus on organizations and institutions engaged in racial and social justice a plus.
- At least three (3) years of experience directly managing staff; experience setting goals and objectives and managing to outcomes with one’s staff. Strong sense of leadership and mentorship. Willingness to guide and develop staff to be their best professional selves.
- A creative thinker, strategist and do-er who has a proven track record of developing creative ideas and campaigns and driving implementation. Ability to develop and move on a multi-year strategy for building a brand and promoting recognition of a body of work.
- Demonstrated success in complex project management and advancing multiple projects with tight timelines; outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Results oriented; meets or exceeds goals regularly and uses a combination of analysis, fact-finding, experience, and judgment to improve and problem solve.
- Excellent writing, editing, and verbal skills. Ability to recognize and tell a story.
- Strong understanding and demonstrated skill in the use of social media/ digital media, and the engagement of audiences through technology.
- Ability to prioritize among competing needs with limited resources. Can navigate complexity, change and ambiguity while continuing to function productively and strategically.
- Initiative to take on new projects and exhibit a positive, proactive attitude towards all tasks and people.
- Willing to take a 'hands on' approach, enjoys working hard and looks for challenges; able to act and react as necessary, even if limited information is available.
- An excellent team player; proven ability to develop effective working relationships.
Benefits
- Salary range: $ 85,000 minimum to $ 115,000 maximum, commensurate with experience.
- Excellent Benefit Package including medical, dental, vision, life, 403(b) with match and more
- Ample Vacation Time: Four weeks of paid vacation accumulated during the year plus 12 company holidays
- Professional Development: Resources committed to bolster professional and personal growth
- Modern & Flexible Work Environment: Our staff work out of a beautifully designed open workspace with flexible and tech-equipped meeting spaces to support different workstyles, promote team building and collaboration
WORK ENVIRONMENT
As part of building a culture where employs can do their best work, FPWA currently employs a hybrid model. Employees are in-office twice per week and senior leadership is in-office three times per week. We observe a company-wide remote day on Fridays.
Work performed by this role is expected to happen in or near New York, NY given FPWA's work policies and practices.
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment.
FPWA requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
TO APPLY: PLEASE SUBMIT A COVER LETTER and RESUME via Workable.
No phone calls or other inquiries please.
Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. We will be interviewing applicants on a rolling basis and will fill the position quickly. Therefore, applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
FPWA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
FPWA is committed to employing people who reflect the diversity of our member agencies and the communities and people they serve. Those with lived experience of justice involvement are strongly encouraged to apply. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged.
