The Community Relations Specialist is responsible for managing the organization's relationships with the community and media, developing programming and events to promote the organization's goals and initiatives, overseeing marketing and communication strategies, and assisting in the day to day operations of the front office. This role operates under the general direction of the Animal Shelter Operations Manager.Community and Media Relations (30%)

• Builds and maintains relationships with members of the community, engaging with community members as well as social, civic, and local organizations.
• Responds to inquiries from community members and other interested parties. As needed, recruits a knowledgeable spokesperson or information source to assist.
• Conducts informational tours of the Shelter for a wide variety of community groups and actively participates in community education/outreach programs.

 
Program and Event Development (30%)

• Plans, develops, implements, and organizes events and fundraisers to advance the mission and goals of the animal shelter.
• Organizes community outreach programs, humane education, and special events that will influence public opinion or promote services or ideas of the animal shelter.
• Develops and implements community-wide programming to support pet retention by providing resources and support to pet owners in need.
• Assists in creating and maintaining a non-profit foundation to support the animal shelter. 
• Coordinates with other shelters and rescues for events and animal transfers, as needed.

Marketing and Design (30%)

• Strategically uses social media platforms to engage the community and manages/creates all digital content to promote the shelter’s initiatives.
• Drafts and distributes/publishes compelling content and media pieces to create positive publicity through various channels.
• Responsible for maintaining & monitoring the Animal Shelter website.

Office Clerk (10%)

• Prepares administrative and technical reports, records and statistics.
• Provides versatile customer service; greets, assists, and informs patrons over the phone and in person.
• All other duties as required to meet the operational and unscheduled needs of the shelter. 

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of program management experience, including fundraising, community-based, and/or socio-economic growth programs.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing successful community outreach initiatives.
• Proven track record of managing events and campaigns to promote organizational goals.
• Experience in grant writing and fundraising techniques.
• A combination of education and experience will be considered.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS
Employee must possess or have the ability to obtain valid Montana driver’s license.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Skilled in preparing and delivering presentations.
• Knowledge of program management concepts.
• Ability to providing work direction to kennel staff and volunteers for events.
• Proficiency in social media management and website maintenance, computer software and design programs.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including community members, donors, and partner organizations.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and reports. 
• Ability to promote and provide quality customer service and respond professionally to complaints and inquiries.
• Possess a passion for animal welfare and commitment to the organization's mission.
• Knowledge of marketing principles and strategies, particularly in the non-profit sector.
• Ability to become knowledgeable about the policies, goals, and procedures of the Animal Shelter.

CORE COMPETENCIES 

• Organizational Skills
• Supervisory/Management Skills
• Professional Communication Skills
• Public Speaking
• High degree of Confidentiality

 
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position does not supervise staff.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed primarily in an office and kennel environment. Use of chemicals and disinfectants and exposure to animal excrement occurs daily. Frequent risk of animal bites or scratches. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, bend, crawl, twist, reach, ride and perform similar body movements. Must have the ability to perform moderate physical work and to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds at a time; the possession of hand/eye coordination sufficient to operate a computer and a motor vehicle; the ability to talkand hear in person or by telephone; and the ability to see and read instructions and reports.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
The work schedule is a 40-hour work week, Sunday through Saturday. This position is a non-exempt and eligible for overtime. Any overtime must be authorized prior to working.
 
TRAVEL
Travel is primarily local during the business day. Occasional travel may be required to attend off-site events, training and educational opportunities.