What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Consultant position at Chicago Yacht Club Foundation?
Contract Type: Consultant/freelance; 20 and 40 hours of work per month, with compensation commensurate with experience
Reports To: Executive Director, with oversight by the Foundation’s Board of Directors Marketing Committee
Background: The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation (“CYC Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on bringing the joys and benefits of boating to all, with primary focus on children from underrepresented communities in Chicago. The CYC Foundation is experiencing an exciting growth phase, driven by an ambitious strategic plan that aims to rapidly expand the organization and create a meaningful, positive impact on the lives of thousands of Chicago youth.
This is a terrific opportunity to make a difference while having maximum license for creativity and innovation. Visit www.chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org to learn more.
Role Overview: CYCF seeks an experienced and creative Communications Consultant to develop and execute a strategic communications plan that enhances the Foundation’s visibility, engagement, and donor outreach. This role will focus on content creation, public relations, social media management, and stakeholder communication to strengthen the Foundation’s presence and impact.
1. Social Media Content Creation and Digital Engagement
- Create strategy, develop, and publish content for the Foundation’s existing and/or future social media channels, including but not limited to Facebook and Instagram. Develop storylines to inform, educate, garner support, and grow our audience.
- Coordinate with Foundation staff to maintain a posting calendar using Buffer that reflects Foundation program activity. Collect media from various Foundation programs.
- Produce monthly marketing reports, including social media analytics.
- Maintain the Foundation’s website, utilizing Squarespace and photo galleries in SmugMug.
2. Internal and External Stakeholder Communications
- Design, edit, produce, and distribute the Foundation’s monthly Beacon (articles linked here) newsletter using MailChimp. Solicit, draft, and edit articles for the Beacon and for other Foundation or Club publications.
- Draft and edit press releases to increase awareness of Foundation programs and their impact. Cultivate relationships with marine industry media, non-endemic media, and community partners to generate coverage.
- Manage communication for special events management, including invitations, promotions, and logistics.
- Coordinate content and assist in producing the Foundation’s annual impact report.
- Assist in managing and promoting fundraising campaigns.
3. In-person Photography and Videography for Special Events
- Work with the Foundation’s on-the-water staff and external photographers to remotely collect, edit, and curate media for a content library and materials for testimonials that showcase the Foundation’s impact.
- Occasionally take photos and videos during special Foundation events, including fundraising events on shore or boating programs, which occur on Lake Michigan, on docks, and at yacht clubs near the water.
Applicants should have experience, comfort, or familiarity with water-based sports. Preference may be given to applicants with experience in web and graphic design and proficiency with the following software at a minimum: MailChimp, Squarespace, SmugMug, Buffer, Meta Business Suite, Canva, or other design software.
The Chicago Yacht Club Foundation is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment. Individuals of all genders, individuals from traditionally underrepresented populations, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
To be considered for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter, including your hourly compensation requirements. In your cover letter, please provide references to your work, including websites, newsletters, and social media channels.
Materials should be submitted via e-mail and be addressed to:
Lindsey Duda
Director, Chicago Yacht Club Foundation Board of Directors
400 East Monroe Street
Chicago, Illinois 60603
communications@chicagoyachtclubfoundation.org
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Please apply no later than March 15, 2025 to receive full consideration.