Summary:

As a member of the Advancement Team, the Communications Specialist reports to the Director of Communications and Development and assumes a key role in building and maintaining the reputation of The Guild for Human Services. The Communications Specialist leads the management and creation of critical portions of a team of professionals responsible for fundraising, stakeholder communications, and media engagement for the organization.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

• Manages and leads content creation and design for The Guild’s website, annual report, monthly newsletter, and social media. Responsible for expanding reach and viewing of all content.
• Partners with internal Guild departments to manage communication and event project needs and ensure they are consistent with Guild branding.
• Manages and creates The Guild’s collateral including merchandise, photos, videos, and other promotional outreach materials.
• Manage vendor relationships in technology, graphic design, merchandising, photography, video, etc.
• Manage and lead awards submissions process.
• Support Guild fundraising events and individual giving campaigns.
• Manage Guild team participation in Flutie 5K for Autism.
• Monitor analytics and create reports detailing the successes and challenges of communications campaigns and strategies, including but not limited to Google Analytics, fundraising targets, and social media trends/mentions of Guild.
• Stay up to date on industry trends and make recommendations for adjustments to communications strategies and practices.
• Initiate and respond to stakeholder communications, including but not limited to photo releases, newsletter story inquiries, and donation acknowledgements.
• Coordinate bulk communications through direct mail, Constant Contact, and other mass communication media.
• Coordinate volunteers, support staff, and vendors to support promotional events, including but not limited to conferences, open houses, award ceremonies, etc.
• Maintain The Guild’s presence on social media sites like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
• Works with CEO on grassroots lobbying efforts and Guild’s Disability Rights activities.
• Support relations with Guild Board of Trustees as needed.
• Inventory and ensure ample stock of promotional photos and videos while adhering to all regulations regarding confidentiality of individuals served.
• Oversee purchasing of branded Guild materials and merchandise.
• Secure and archive annual updates of guardian photo permissions and specific photo/video consents.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Essential Job Functions

• Regular attendance at work is an essential function of the job including some weekends, holidays, and inclement weather situations.
• Organize, inventory, and update communications’ stock, including photos/graphics, print materials, guardian consents, and electronic communications.
• Maintain confidentiality of individuals while promoting Guild mission/programs
• Work on multiple tasks with high level of organization, attention to detail, and quick deadlines.
• Consistently utilize computer programs with integrity to promote The Guild’s brand, including Constant Contact, Microsoft products, graphic design software, fundraising software, and virtual private network.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent experience
• Professional level verbal and written communication in English
• Ability to analyze and interpret information.
• Strong time management and organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with computer processing software within Microsoft Office suite
• Ability to use/learn data systems and graphic design software.
• Ability to use/learn email marketing software, such as Constant Contact.
• Knowledge of web content management systems, such as Drupal, is an asset.
• Reliable transportation to primary worksite in Concord, MA as well as conferences and events as assigned.
• Must meet Massachusetts Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) background check requirements.