Communications Manager

Position: Communications Manager

Department: Administration

Classification: Full-Time, Salaried

DESCRIPTION

Benefiting Your Future!

• Competitive pay / DOE
• Employee Medical, Dental, Vision premium
• $50,000 Basic Life Insurance, Long Term Disability
• Voluntary Flexible Spending Account, Life Insurance, Short Term Disability
• 401(k) and up to 5% Employer Contribution Match
• Paid Leave: Annual, Sick, 13 Paid Holiday Observances, Jury Duty, Bereavement, Closure

Summary

The Communications Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating the Suquamish Tribe’s strategic communications, public relations, and media relations efforts. Working closely with the Executive Director and Tribal Council, this position plays a key role in elevating the Tribe’s voice and reputation regionally, nationally, and within Indian Country. The Communications Manager will oversee all external and internal communication efforts, including public statements, media outreach, publications, and digital engagement. This role is also responsible for managing the communications team, providing strategic guidance on messaging, and ensuring consistency in branding and communication across the Tribe's operations. The Manager fosters relationships with the media, tribal members, government officials, and other stakeholders, while overseeing the Tribe’s publications, social media presence, website, and communications strategies to support the Tribe’s mission and goals.

Your Education / Experience

• BA in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in public relations, media, or communications, with a proven track record of securing media placements and managing communications campaigns.
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience, including managing staff and contractors.
• Experience working with Tribal leadership or within Native American communities is preferred.

Your Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive communications strategies to promote the Tribe’s mission, goals, and objectives. Ensure messaging aligns with organizational priorities and strategic goals.
• Advise tribal leadership on public positions regarding key issues, and draft public statements, editorials, speeches, and presentations for Tribal leaders.
• Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets. Oversee press releases, media queries, and public relations efforts. Coordinate interviews and media coverage for Tribal leadership.
• Oversee the Tribe’s digital presence, including managing the website and social media channels. Collaborate with staff to create content for outreach and community engagement.
• Lead the creation and distribution of the Tribe’s monthly newsletter, weekly digital updates, SUN alerts, and the annual report. Ensure the content accurately reflects Tribal activities, leadership, and events.
• Develop and implement a cohesive branding strategy to ensure consistency across all communications materials and platforms.
• Oversee photography and video production for Tribe events, ensuring media content is captured and archived effectively.
• Develop and execute crisis communication strategies to manage any potential issues or emergencies that may arise.
• Supervise the communications team, including staff and contractors, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Ensure the team works effectively to meet the Tribe’s communications goals.
• Facilitate media and public relations training sessions for Tribal spokespeople and other leadership.
• Work with department directors to align communications strategies with Tribal programs, services, and initiatives. Foster a collaborative work environment that supports the Tribe’s mission.
• Cover Tribal Council meetings and General Council meetings, producing materials and updates to inform the community about decisions and outcomes. Oversee the production of the annual General Council handbook.
• Conduct strategic communications planning to support organizational goals, ensuring messaging is relevant and timely.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with the Tribal community, government agencies, media organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. Foster community-centered collaboration to effectively communicate the Tribe’s activities.
• Develop and manage external communications for various programs, events, and initiatives. Respond to media requests and organize media interviews.
• Coordinate and oversee media events, special events, and press releases to ensure accurate and timely distribution of information.
• Monitor and analyze public perception of the Tribe, ensuring proactive media relations and consistent messaging.
• Respond to information requests from Tribal members, government agencies, advocacy groups, and other entities. Manage the Tribe’s informational signage, publications, and reports.
• Develop and manage the communications department budget, including planning, vendor contracts, and payroll.
• Provide direct supervision and mentorship to the communications staff, including conducting annual evaluations and fostering career development opportunities.
• Engage with other departments and stakeholders to integrate communication efforts across the Tribe’s operations.

Qualifications You’ll Bring

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, impactful messaging for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency with digital publishing tools (WordPress, Adobe Acrobat), social media platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Expertise in social media management, digital marketing, and content creation strategies.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of the political, cultural, and social context in which the Suquamish Tribe operates, and an understanding of Indian Country issues.
• High moral integrity, professionalism, and the ability to handle sensitive and controversial issues.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including Tribal members, leadership, and external organizations.

What to Expect

• Office-based, with physical activities such as sitting, standing, and carrying materials required. The work is largely done during traditional business hours, though evening and weekend work may be required.
• The role may involve emotional stress due to controversial content, high-pressure situations, and sensitive Tribal issues.
• A strong understanding of Tribal values, history, and governance, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with Tribal members and leadership.
• Inspire and lead a communications team, ensuring alignment with the Tribe’s goals.
• Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies that align with the Tribe’s mission and objectives.
• Navigate challenging situations with professionalism and responsiveness.

Requirements

• State and Tribal Background check
• Valid WA State Driver’s License
• Pre-Employment drug testing
• Native American Preference
• Random Drug Testing
• Suquamish Tribe Vaccine Requirements

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Public relations, media, or commuications: 5 years (Required)
• Supervisory: 2 years (Required)
• working with Tribal leadership: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $50,000