Position Summary

The incoming Communications Manager serve as a key partner throughout Washington Jesuit Academy (WJA). The Communications Manager will use a strategic, collaborative, and inclusive approach to create and implement an integrated multimedia communication and marketing plan to support and elevate the Academy. This plan will include a clearly articulated approach to a multimillion-dollar annual fundraising cycle, as well as communication initiatives with all constituencies that contribute to WJA’s success – donors, alumni, parents, and community members. The Communications Manager will report to the Chief Advancement Officer and work closely with the senior administrative and advancement teams to promote the mission of the Academy, raise WJA’s visibility, and strengthen the Academy’s communication channels.

Primary Responsibilities

Strategy and Vision:

• Develop and implement an integrated, mission-centered, multimedia communication and marketing strategy for WJA, formulating both short-term and long-term plans that authentically share the Academy’s unique story, core values, mission, and opportunities with stakeholders.

• In collaboration with WJA’s advancement team, design, develop, and disseminate print and web materials that raise awareness and drive increased philanthropic support.

• Support the advancement team with a comprehensive communications strategy for donor recognition and stewardship, including researching and writing donor impact stories for reports, publications, website, videos, etc. and creating content for correspondence with major and annual donors, alumni, and friends of the Academy.

• Effectively manage all communications projects from conception to evaluation, ensuring consistency in messaging and production value.

• Develop and manage the budget for marketing and communications initiatives and projects.

• Oversee media relations, including any crisis communications, in collaboration with the President and senior administrative team. Collaborate and supervise with Academy community to determine appropriate opportunities for outreach.

Day-to-day:

• Ensure the consistent development and execution of WJA’s branding, marketing, and communication plan of work. • Communicate and publicize WJA through printed materials, media outlets, and digital platforms.

• Create, maintain, and publish content for WJA’s website and social media outreach.

• Coordinate the sharing of school information and execute WJA’s communications, public calendar, news articles, Annual Report, and photo gallery.

• Support departments including admissions and graduate support, as well as various school constituencies in developing and distributing promotional materials, advertisements, and other brand related communications.

• Support and promote WJA signature events, programs, and activities throughout the academic year. • Design, produce, and edit communications and publications across the Academy.

• Provide communications support and counsel for the President, the administrative team, and the Board of Directors, and represent the School’s communications and marketing agenda to Academy constituents.

Experience/ Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in communications, marketing, public relations, or English.

• Three to five years of experience in marketing, public relations, and/or communications, preferably in an independent school or education setting.

• Understanding of advancement best practices concerning communications, engagement, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.

• Ability to consult and collaboratively work with leadership across the Academy to synthesize concepts and articulate those to a broader audience while maintaining the authenticity of WJA’s core values.

• Demonstrated knowledge of social media platforms.

• Strong photography, design, writing, and editing skills. Knowledge of Microsoft Office essential and specialty programs for design and video production preferred.

• Strong team orientation and ability to work collaboratively with all members of the Academy’s community.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, public speaking and presentation skills, and interpersonal and interview skills.

• Strong organization skills.

• Ability to prioritize and manage time sensitive projects, deadlines, and budgets.

• Readiness and willingness to engage in all aspects of WJA life, including participation in special events, media events, and faculty and student activities.

• Sound judgment relating to confidential projects; student, donor, and/or prospect matters; including effective communication regarding such matters to the appropriate individuals. 

Interested candidates should submit cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to Lisa Paro, Chief Advancement Officer: lparo@wjacademy.org

Visit our website to learn more about Washington Jesuit Academy: www.wjacademy.org