Director of Communications & Outreach

Job Details

Description

Collington, A Kendal Affiliate, located on a beautiful 125-acre campus in Mitchellville, Maryland, is a Life Plan Community enriched in diversity that offers an active lifestyle for independent living and person-centered continuing care for assisted living and memory support. Collington’s vision is to thrive as a community of people living, working, and serving together, bringing alive a spirit of collaboration, generosity, and mutual respect in our relationships and decision-making.

The Director of Communications and Outreach is a full-time onsite position, responsible for developing and implementing strategic communication initiatives and outreach programs that enhance Collington’s visibility and reputation. This role involves managing internal and external communications, fostering community relationships, and ensuring consistent messaging that aligns with Collington’s mission and values. The Director of Communications and Outreach will work closely with the CEO, team members, residents, and community partners to promote engagement and growth.

Communications

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning:

– Develop and execute comprehensive multichannel communication strategies that support Collington’s goals and objectives.
– Conduct regular audits of current communication efforts and assess their effectiveness.
– Collaborate with the CEO and senior leadership team to ensure alignment with the organization’s vision and mission across the organization.
– Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of communication strategies.

2. Content Creation and Management:

– Oversee the creation, editing, and dissemination of high-quality content across various channels, including newsletters, press releases, social media, website, and marketing materials.
– Develop a content calendar to plan and coordinate communication efforts.
– Ensure consistency in tone, style, and branding in all communications.
– Write and edit articles, presentations, and other communication materials for the CEO and senior leadership team members.

3. Internal Communications:

– Develop and implement internal communication strategies to ensure team members and residents are informed and engaged.
– In collaboration with the senior leadership team, manage internal communication platforms and tools, including newsletters, email updates, and intranet content.

4. Media Relations:

– Build and maintain strong relationships with local and national media outlets and state and national associations.
– Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and coordinate responses.
– Prepare and distribute press releases, media kits, and other press materials.
– Pitch story ideas to media outlets and secure media coverage.
– Monitor Collington’s image and address any negative impacts, ensuring consistent and positive messaging and branding.

5. Crisis Communication:

– Develop and maintain a crisis communication plan.
– Act as the lead communication officer during crisis situations, ensuring accurate and timely dissemination of information.
– Train team members on crisis communication plan/protocols and conduct annual trainings.

Outreach

Key Responsibilities:

1. Community Engagement:

– Foster strong relationships with community organizations, local businesses, and other key stakeholders.
– Represent Collington at community events, meetings, and forums to promote awareness and partnerships.
– Develop and implement community outreach programs that align with Collington’s mission and values.
– Track and report on community engagement activities and outcomes.

2. Partnership Development:

– Identify and cultivate partnerships that support Collington’s strategic objectives and enhance service offerings.
– Collaborate with external partners to develop and implement joint initiatives.

3. Outreach Campaigns:

– Develop targeted outreach strategies for different audience segments, including prospective residents, families, and community partners.
– Create collateral and promotional materials to support outreach efforts.

*Some travel may be required to represent Collington at external events and conferences.*

Qualifications/Required Skills:

– Proficiency in digital communication tools and social media platforms.
– Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel).
– Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
– Strong organizational and project management skills.
– Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
– Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.
– Knowledge of the senior living industry is a plus.

Benefits:

– A comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Plans.
– 403(b) Tax Deferred Retirement Savings Plan.
– Vacation, Sick Leave & Holiday Pay.
– Employee Assistance Program.
– Scholarship opportunities.

Salary:

Up to $142,000 based on experience.

Qualifications

Skills:

– Microsoft Word: Intermediate
– Microsoft PowerPoint: Intermediate
– Microsoft Excel: Intermediate

Behaviors:

– Functional Expert: Considered a thought leader on a subject.
– Team Player: Works well as a member of a group.
– Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest.
– Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity.

Motivations:

– Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help.
– Flexibility: Inspired to perform well when granted the ability to set your own schedule and goals.
– Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization.

Education:

– Bachelor’s or better in Communication or related field.
– Bachelor’s or better in Public Relations or related field.
– Master’s or better in Communication or related field (preferred).

Experience:

– 5–7 years of experience in communications, public relations, or a related field, with a proven track record of success.

Physical Demands:

– Must be able to stand and walk short and long distances for extended periods.
– Must be able to sit in front of a computer for several hours a day.
– Must be able to lift and/or carry objects less than 20 pounds.
– This is a full-time position at Collington.
– Occasional evening and weekend work may be required to attend events and meetings.
– Some travel may be required to represent Collington at external events and conferences.

Learn more here