Director of Communications

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS - Cover Letter REQUIRED with resume submission

Full Time – Exempt

Reports to the Bishop of NEAC of the UMC

In office, 5 days per week M-F Methuen, MA

Some travel required

This position is responsible for developing a comprehensive communication strategy for the New England Annual Conference (NEAC) in conjunction with the bishop to communicate and promote news of the ongoing mission and ministry within NEAC local churches, agencies, members, and leadership.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Work with the Bishop and other Conference leadership to develop, implement, and coordinate a communications strategy that works both internally and externally to build understanding, interest, and excitement about the vibrant mission and ministry taking place within the New England Annual Conference.

Write and distribute content (print articles, graphics, short-form video, and social posts) for the NEAC’s various print and digital communications platforms, including but not limited to the Annual Conference website, social media channels (Facebook and Instagram), weekly e-newsletters, monthly local church newsletters, quarterly team publications, and emerging channels as needed

Serve as the public relations and media relations spokesperson for the conference; externally by fostering relationships with local media and internally, amongst local churches, districts, and office staff; and connectionally, working with others in the United Methodist denomination

Prepare the journal for Annual Conference and Appointment Book Annually

Other duties as needed

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Develops a strategic and comprehensive approach to communications that supports the identified and emerging needs of the New England Conference, its bishop, leadership, and local churches.

Ensures high-quality deliverables that are on brand and message are completed on time and within budget.

Creates regular and timely communications that meet Conference standards and that integrate strategic messages, including but not limited to the New England Conference brand, in cooperation with all departments.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field (journalism), and at least three-years work experience in a similar or related role.

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS

Understanding of Methodism and/or a willingness to develop the deep understanding needed to speak and write authoritatively about the workings of the Church and its people.

Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to build relationships needed to do the work, collaborate and partner effectively with Conference leadership, clergy, and laity.

Ability to work both independently and as a part of a team. Willingness and ability to train, work with, and direct volunteer members of the communications team.

Enterprise (professionally centered) social media management and engagement experience, with an understanding of focused, strategic utilization of various social media platforms; audience and engagement; cross channel communications/marketing; metrics and analytics for Facebook, Instagram, podcasts, and other emerging platforms.

Experience and proficiency with various forms of audio/visual equipment.

Possess an ability to set priorities and manage multiple projects in a complex, fast-paced, deadline driven environment.

Microsoft 365

Project management platforms

Superior writing and copy-editing skills

Strategic research, idea generation, and content strategy

Strong interviewing skills

Photography/basic videography/photo and video editing and production using standard tools, i.e.: Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and other emerging technologies

Graphic design using standard tools, i.e.: Adobe Suite and Canva

Publishing tools, i.e.: Adobe InDesign

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Methuen, MA 01844 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Methuen, MA 01844: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $70,000 - $80,000