Marketing and Communications Manager

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Reports To: Executive Director

Supervises: None

Status: Regular, Full-Time, Exempt

Working Location: In-Person; Canton, Ohio

WHO IS WORKFORCE INITIATIVE ASSOCIATION (WIA): WIA's mission is to provide workforce development programs that serve area businesses and prepare adults and youth for worthwhile and sustainable employment, especially recognizing those economically disadvantaged individuals and others in special need, through the US Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act federally funded programs. WIA also operates the OhioMeansJobs Centers in Stark and Tuscarawas Counties; a partnership of community organizations providing employment, training, and education resources. The centers are located in Canton and New Philadelphia. WIA staff fulfill roles that directly assist job seeker and business customers with their workforce needs.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR: We are looking to add an individual with experience developing and executing an annual marketing and outreach plan, building relationships, promoting and coordinating events with great organizational skills and a positive attitude to our team.

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Participation in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS).
• Full-Time staff have access to comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits; competitive sick/vacation leave; and company paid life insurance.
• Standard full-time work week of 37.50 hours (1950 hours per year).
• Compensation $53,000 - $74,000 commensurate with experience.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Marketing and Communications Manager is responsible for developing and executing strategic initiatives that enhance public awareness, engagement, and participation in WIA programs and local OhioMeansJobs Center workforce services. This role oversees marketing, branding, community outreach, media relations, and digital communications while fostering partnerships to strengthen the organization’s impact in Stark and Tuscarawas Counties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Perform any other duties or tasks consistent with the nature of this position and the goals of the organization.

Marketing, Public Relations, and Communications Strategy:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive annual marketing, public relations, and communication strategy to promote WIA and OhioMeansJobs programs.
• Oversee branding efforts to ensure consistency across all communications and promotional materials.
• Manage relationships with media outlets, develop press releases, and coordinate media appearances to enhance public visibility.
• Utilize social media, email marketing, and digital advertising to expand reach and engagement.
• Assist senior management in analyzing data and reporting outcome measurements to evaluate and enhance marketing and communications strategy effectiveness.

Community Engagement and Outreach:

• Cultivate relationships with local organizations, employers, educational institutions, and community leaders to expand program awareness.
• Represent the organization at events, job fairs, and community gatherings to strengthen partnerships and increase visibility, primarily during the workday with occasional evening and weekend obligations.
• Act as a liaison between WIA, OhioMeansJobs, and the community, gathering feedback to refine outreach efforts.
• Support the organization in assessing and evaluating outreach strategies to effectively promote service availability across all in-person and virtual access points.

Digital and Traditional Marketing Management:

• Oversee the creation of marketing materials, including brochures, newsletters, and promotional videos.
• Manage website content and social media platforms to align with organizational goals.
• Develop and execute multi-channel marketing campaigns to highlight services, success stories, and community impact.
• Analyze engagement metrics to refine marketing strategies and optimize outreach efforts.

Event Planning and Coordination:

• Plan, coordinate, and execute community events, job fairs, and workshops to promote services.
• Manage event logistics, including scheduling, outreach, and materials preparation.
• Partner with stakeholders to deliver impactful workforce development initiatives.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Public Relations, Communications or related field from an accredited college or university; or three to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency in marketing tools, social media management, digital analytics, and content creation.
• Experience in workforce development or nonprofit sectors, and familiarity with local workforce, education, and community resources is preferred.
• Strong communication, presentation and relationship-building skills and the ability to communicate effectively in all forms.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and effectively collaborate with all levels of the organization and its customers.
• Ability to plan, organize, prioritize, assign work, meet deadlines, and effectively manage multiple projects.
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft applications as well as the ability to navigate electronic software systems and web applications.
• Valid Ohio driver’s license and ability to travel for training or events.