Community Relations Manager

At The Schenectady Foundation, we care deeply about our community, and we’re seeking a community relations manager to maintain and nurture our relationships with stakeholders and donors. The ideal candidate will have excellent organizational, communication, database management and writing skills, as well as an ability to foster positive relationships with individuals and organizations.

Our community relations manager is a dependable, self-starting, customer-oriented individual, responsible for communicating the mission, vision and role of The Schenectady Foundation and its strategic programs. The community relations manager shall plan, and manage activities to help the Foundation achieve its marketing and communication goals and execute events or programs closely aligned with our strategic direction.

Objectives of this role

• Raise community awareness regarding the mission and work of the Foundation.
• Develop and implement a strategy for building the reputation and resources of the Foundation.
• Ensure consistent and effective utilization of the Foundation’s constituent and donor management system (Bloomerang).
• Build and maintain relationships with members of the community, key individuals, and other organizations.
• Be an integral part of our team-approach to financial development and fundraising.

Responsibilities

• Produce communications that promote the Foundation to stakeholders, including donors, potential donors, community members, government officials and social sector leaders.
• Manage website and social media content to enhance the company’s online profile.
• Organize outreach programs that promote the Foundation’s programs and community impact.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute public press conferences.
• Respond to inquiries from community members, donors and other stakeholders.
• Attend relevant events and activities to represent the Foundation and build strong relationships with community members.
• Build and promote cross-functional relationships within the organization.
• Develop proficiency in utilizing our constituent management system, Bloomerang.

Required skills and qualifications

• At least two years of experience in marketing, communications or a related field
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and an ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Knowledgeable regarding use of constituent management systems, databases and spreadsheets
• Experience utilizing social media to reach key audiences
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage sensitive or controversial subjects with tact, kindness, and professionalism

Preferred skills and qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in public relations, communications, marketing, journalism, or related field
• Previous exposure to fundraising, public affairs, public speaking, management or creative or technical writing
• Proficiency with work productivity software or similar writing and presentation software
• Knowledge of, or involvement with, communities and issues in Schenectady County, NY.

Desired Personal Characteristics & Qualities

• Integrity and commitment to high ethical standards
• Ability to interact respectfully and thoughtfully with people of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and cultures
• Ability to work independently – a self-starter – but also a team player
• Versatility and flexibility – able to switch gears as needed
• Attention to detail
• Positive, can-do attitude

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary range of $50K - $60K dependent upon experience.
• Competitive benefits plan includes health insurance coverage, health flex plan, 403(b) retirement savings plan, paid vacation and leave time, volunteer time off, etc.

To apply, send resume and cover letter to info@schenectadyfoundation.org

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person