Job Openings >> Manager, Communications & Public Relations
Manager, Communications & Public Relations
Summary
Title:Manager, Communications & Public Relations
ID:1132
Department:External Affairs and Communications
Description

The Manager of Communications & Public Relations will work directly with the Director of Communications and Public Relations to implement daily public relations strategies and tactics that position Shedd Aquarium as the top cultural attraction in Chicago and the country, as well as a leading global conservation organization worldwide. This position supports the organizations mission to spark compassion, curiosity and conservation for the aquatic animal world.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values.
  • Develop and implement earned media strategies and tactics for Shedd Aquarium with a focus on experiences, animal care, and learning and conservation programs.
  • Ability to work within and lead cross-functional teams internally in order to successfully design and implement projects and plans. Liaison with various departments to ensure successful integrated strategies.
  • Work closely with the Director of Communications & Public Relations to implement annual and strategic media relations efforts to support Aquarium's long term strategic plans.
  • Maintain responsibility for the team’s tactical execution, day-to-day expectations and time management (staffing, timelines, and resources) at both a functional and strategic level.
  • Develop multi-faceted media relations and communications strategies and tactics to deliver against annual goals and objectives and strategic imperatives.
  • Manage media relations, spokesperson development, writing (releases, media materials, press conferences etc.), monthly reporting and quality control.
  • Secure impactful media placements and develop content and messages that reinforce the significance and relevancy of Shedd while advancing the aquarium's mission with specific emphasis on conservation science and research, animal care, learning, and animal health and exhibits.
  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with local, national and international media contacts and influencers to maximize current and future exposure.
  • Serve as the quality control center for team assignments and communications, including review and editing of writing, pitches and action plans. Write and distribute news releases, advisories, statements, key messages, photos and videos. Maintain messaging, resources, video and photo assets through departments FTP site and newsroom.
  • Work closely with the Director of Communications to manage and grow the Sheddvocate (Shedd + Advocate) Program, designed to engage influencers and ambassadors to take collective action to support the organizations mission.
  • Participate in strategic planning efforts.
  • Assist with all internal communications including quarterly all-staff Town Halls, Shedd intranet, and other duties as assigned.
  • Develop and manage public relations staff and interns. Train, monitor and evaluate performance and ensure consistent and ongoing professional development. Serve as a mentor and leader. Recruit, interview and provide candidate selection recommendations to the Director.
  • Represent Shedd Aquarium internally and externally as assigned.
  • Assist and support Director and Vice President as assigned.
Qualifications:
Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in communications-related field emphasizing public relations and writing skills.
Experience:
  • Minimum: Minimum 6 to 8 years of competitive experience in public relations field emphasizing media relations, account supervision. PR agency or/and supervisory experience required.
  • Experience with non –profit, museum, and/or conservation related public relations strongly preferred. APR or Masters in Communications preferred.
  • Must be available 24/7 via cell phone (with exception of scheduled vacations.)
  • Must be able to work flexible hours including early mornings, nights and weekends as necessary,

  • Great attitude! Interest in conservation, zoo/aquarium, non-profit, cultural institutions and strong desire to excel in this industry.

This opening is closed and is no longer accepting applications
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