What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Manager position at American Counseling Association?
Description
The American Counseling Association (ACA) is the world’s largest organization representing professional counselors in various practice settings.
Our vision: We are the preeminent advocate and resource for professional counselors and their clients in a world where everyone has access to mental health services.
Our mission: Advancing mental health and well-being through advocacy, community, inclusion and research.
Our values: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Integrity, Proactive Leadership, Professional Community & Relationships, Scientific Practice & Knowledge, Social Justice & Empowerment.
All American Counseling Association team members are encouraged, supported, and expected to demonstrate The Way We Work Values: Be Flexible, Be Creative, Be Empowered, Be Inquisitive, Be Collaborative and Be Respectful.
Job Purpose
The Communications Manager is an integral part of the Communications & Marketing team, supporting awareness of ACA, counselors and the counseling profession in society. The Communications Manager uses great storytelling, writing, editing and project management skills to garner interest and attention to the role counselors play in delivering mental health services across the U.S. and beyond.
The ideal candidate possesses the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously; excellent writing and editing skills; and the ability to work both collaboratively and independently. This role is also responsible for content creation, media relations, editing, reporting and other related duties as assigned. This position reports to the Chief Communications & Marketing Officer.
Key Responsibilities
Copywriting and Content Development
- Research, draft and finalize a wide range of content — including press releases, articles, profiles, website copy, social media content, newsletters blurbs, templates, speeches and scripts — across ACA platforms.
- Cultivate a deep understanding of new and existing ACA content to inform story ideas and pitches.
- Source experts, report, write and manage content schedule for member profiles and public-facing content.
Media Relations
- Partner with Chief Communications & Marketing Officer and external consultant to monitor news trends, identify and develop media pitches and campaign themes, monitor news inbox.
- Work with subject matter experts on interview preparation and media training.
- Manage build out of media experts list.
Editing & Reporting
- Manage the editing of ACA content including web content, newsletters, articles and other messaging.
- Contribute to and manage ACA style guide. Manage the development of analytics and media reports
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism or related field.
- 5 years of experience in communications, journalism or related field.
- Demonstrated ability to consistently manage and meet personal and team deadlines efficiently and effectively.
- At least five years of copyediting experience.
- Advanced knowledge of Associated Press style.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent listening skills and ability to interact with people effectively.
- Effective judgment and decision-making skills.
- Excellent interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to work successfully in a team-based environment and manage employees[MP1] .
- Service-oriented mindset.
- Proficient in MS Office Suite.
- Knowledge of or interest in the mental health field a plus.
- Supervisory experience a plus.
Location: Hybrid. Candidate must reside within the Washington, D.C.-metro area. Some evenings and weekends may be required.
