Marketing & Communications Manager

Job Description:  Marketing & Communications Manager 

About MPC: 

Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC) is dedicated to shaping a better, bolder, more equitable future for everyone. Our vision is focused on creating a Chicago region where every community is valued, every person has a voice, and every neighborhood thrives. Since 1934, MPC has operated as an independent, nonpartisan organization serving metropolitan Chicago’s communities and residents to change perceptions, reimagine conversations, and defy the status quo. Through thoughtful collaboration with local communities, businesses, and governments, MPC is a bold change-maker, addressing the region’s toughest planning and development challenges. We believe that strong partnerships rooted in respect and trust are critical to creative and effective problem-solving. 

MPC is a values-driven workplace, and we are seeking to expand our team. Successful team members are curious and collaborative with effective communication and project management skills who recognize the connections between our core areas of work and seek to affect meaningful change. Central to living our values is embracing MPC’s organizational commitment to an anti-racist, anti-oppressive workplace, and centering equity in strengthening our internal policies and practices. 

Application Deadline | February 17, 2025, at 8:00 AM 

Position Summary: 

MPC seeks a dynamic and strategic Marketing & Communications Manager to lead the development and execution of high-impact marketing initiatives that engage diverse audiences, amplify MPC’s voice, and advance its mission. This role requires exceptional collaboration, leadership, and content creation skills to support organizational goals and drive brand growth. The Manager will oversee strategic marketing plans, manage content creation, and build relationships with media, while collaborating with internal teams to ensure consistent, compelling messaging across platforms. 

Supervisor: Director, Marketing & Communications 

Core Duties: 

• Strategic Oversight and Leadership 
• Develop and oversee strategic marketing and communications plans that align with organizational goals and target audience needs. 
• Lead cross-functional collaborations with Development and Program teams to set marketing priorities and ensure unified messaging. 
• Content Development and Oversight 
• Direct the creation of high-quality written content, including op-eds, speeches, annual reports, and programmatic deliverables, ensuring alignment with MPC’s mission and branding. 
• Review and approve marketing materials and publications to ensure brand consistency and messaging accuracy. 
• Media and Public Relations 
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets; proactively pitch stories to elevate MPC’s profile. 
• Respond to media inquiries and connect reporters with internal subject matter experts. 
• Event Management and Promotion 
• Lead the strategic planning, promotion, and execution of high-profile events, such as MPC’s Annual Event and other key organizational gatherings. 
• Oversee event marketing strategies to maximize attendance and engagement. 
• Analytics and Reporting 
• Track, measure, and report on the effectiveness of marketing and communications efforts, using insights to refine strategies and improve outcomes. 
• Team Management 
• Provide guidance and mentorship to the Marketing & Communications Associate, fostering skill development and professional growth. 

Qualifications: 

• Must embrace the mission and vision of MPC. 
• 3-5 years of professional experience in marketing, communications, public relations, advertising, or a related field. 
• Successful writing and editing experience across diverse media formats. 
• Proven ability to develop and execute comprehensive marketing strategies. 
• Experience building relationships with media and pitching stories. 
• Graphic design experience (Adobe Suite and/or Canva). 
• Proficiency in WordPress, Microsoft Office, and virtual platforms. 
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. 
• Analytical mindset with the ability to use data to drive decisions. 
• Ability to effectively interact with a variety of audiences, including civic, community, media, philanthropic, corporate, and government officials. 

Nice to Haves: 

• Relationships with local and/or national journalists. 
• Experience supporting political or advocacy campaigns. 
• Experience coaching and mentoring others on marketing trends and efforts. 
• Experience using WordPress or similar CMS.  
• Passion for storytelling. 

Application Deadline | February 17, 2025, at 8:00 AM 

How to apply:  

Please submit the following materials:  

1) A cover letter articulating your specific interest in the role and what you will bring to it 

2) Your résumé; or CV  

Compensation and Benefits:    

Salary Range: $77,250-$80,000 

For the 2025 Benefit year, Metropolitan Planning Council’s robust and competitive compensation package for new full-time employees includes covering approximately 80% of the employee premium for health benefits, 100% of the employee premium for dental benefits, and Disability and Life insurance.  Additionally, MPC provides all full-time employees with a hybrid work environment, parental leave, up to five weeks of accrued vacation, transit benefits, a professional development stipend, and access to an onsite fitness center, among other benefits. 

EEOC/Diversity Statement:  

MPC is an equal opportunity employer and we stay true to our mission by celebrating the differences among us. We are committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion within our workplace and encourage applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and of all ages to apply. We will not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or retaliation of any kind and we promote a climate of mutual respect for our employees.