Communications Specialist

Job Details: Level: Experienced, Job Location: StepForward Main Office - Cleveland, OH, Position Type: Full-Time 52 Weeks, Education Level: 4 Year Degree, Salary Range: $41973.00 - $52466.00Salary/year, Job Shift: Monday - Friday (8:00am - 5:00pm), Job Category: Marketing, Purpose of Classification:

The purpose of this classification is to contribute to the development, execution, and management of strategic marketing and communications initiatives, which helps Step Forward achieve its mission and organizational goals. This role collaborates with internal teams to create impactful campaigns, ensure consistent messaging across platforms, and support the success of Step Forward’s outreach and advocacy efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

Content Creation & Storytelling:

Create and distribute engaging content, including press releases, blog posts, newsletters, fact sheets, and targeted marketing materials that effectively communicate Step Forward’s mission, programs, and impact.
Conduct interviews with employees, clients, and community partners to craft compelling stories showcasing the impact of Step Forward’s programs, especially those benefiting vulnerable populations.
Develop and produce monthly newsletters that highlight program updates, partnerships, and success stories.

Community Outreach & Advocacy:

Gather and organize information for community outreach efforts and program advocacy, particularly focusing on programs that serve vulnerable populations.
Create compelling visual content (photos, videos) to accompany written stories and increase engagement across various communication channels.

Digital Strategy & Social Media:

Develop and execute social media strategies to enhance brand awareness, support program recruitment (e.g., Head Start enrollment), and promote initiatives like personal and professional development and job training.
Manage the organization’s social media presence, ensuring consistent and engaging content.
Track social media analytics and adjust campaigns to achieve engagement and outreach goals.
Oversee website content, ensuring timely and dynamic updates to keep the site fresh, relevant, and reflective of Step Forward’s mission and programs.

Event Coverage & Visual Content Production:

Travel to Step Forward’s Head Start locations, Opportunity Centers, and other relevant venues to cover Step Forward events, grand openings, and program activities.
Capture high-quality photos and videos of events to be used across communication platforms.

Internal Communications:

Support internal communication efforts to ensure employees are informed about key initiatives, organizational news, and updates on programs.

Media Relations & Publicity:

Create and maintain accurate media lists, track media coverage, and collect relevant media clips for reporting purposes.
Develop and pitch story ideas to local media outlets to increase Step Forward's visibility and engagement in the community.

Feedback & Data Analysis:

Design and conduct surveys to gather feedback from customers, stakeholders, and community members, and analyze survey data to generate actionable insights that inform communication strategies and improve services.

Collaboration with External Partners:

Work with external consultants and vendors to complete key initiatives, such as large campaigns or specific program promotions, ensuring that external content aligns with Step Forward's mission.

Additional Functions:

Performs other related duties as required.   

Job Qualifications:

Experience: At least 1-2 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, or a related field, with a proven ability to execute communications strategies and manage projects.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field preferred. Equivalent work experience may be substituted for formal education.
Skills:

Strong written and verbal communication skills with an ability to tailor content to different audiences.
Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines.
Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with senior leadership, teams, and community partners.
Familiarity with digital and social media applications, including content creation, social media management, and analytics platforms.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, HTML, Photoshop/photo editing software, and/or Adobe Premiere/video editing software.
Strong analytical skills, with the ability to gather data and conduct research to inform communications strategies.

Additional Requirements:

Must have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.

Additional Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Successful results of pre and continued employment assessments including fingerprinting, drug testing, medical examinations and background check(s).

Step Forward is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Agency will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. 

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