Marketing/Communications Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Marketing & Communications Specialist is responsible for the successful execution of the organization’s marketing and communications strategies.

Scope of responsibility includes working in multiple platforms, including, but not limited to website, social media, email marketing, print, and large format design. In addition, this individual will support brand management, vendor relationships, and participate in association-wide leadership projects.

OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become part of the Y family. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Strategy Development & Leadership

• Work with Executive Director of Advancement to develop appropriate strategies to meet association goals across all programs including membership, aquatics, health & wellbeing, childcare, youth sports, and philanthropy.
• Support the organization’s efforts in diversity and inclusion.
• Maintain current knowledge of new technology and trends in the area of marketing and communication.

Internal Communications

• Maintain strong relationships and communication channels with operations staff in order to understand communications needs across all programs.
• Content creation and distribution of regular member communications including electronic newsletters.
• Graphic design of in-branch communications including electronic reader boards, flyers, and banners.
• Large format design for in-branch décor.
• Formatting and distribution of pre-scheduled emails for new members and other specific groups.
• Train and support program staff to support content creation

Advertising & Community Relations

• Graphic design, illustration, and production of campaign creative elements for print and online marketing campaigns.
• Copy writing and editing for diverse channels and audiences.
• Nurture relationships with vendors, media outlets and community partners.

• Procure promotional merchandise.
• Monitor and report campaign metrics across various platforms.

Social Media

• Manage all association social media platforms.
• Create social media content that effectively communicates our brand.
• Respond to comments and inquiries.
• Work with vendors to manage paid social media advertising strategies.
• Post emergency communications and updates as needed.
• Train staff and volunteers in effective social media advocacy techniques and strategies.
• Monitor and report user data and metrics.

Website

• Work with operations team to ensure website content is up to date and accurate.
• Work with website vendor to develop new pages and features as necessary.
• Monitor and report SEO and user data.
• Recommend updates and improvements focused on user experience.

Brand Management

• Maintains appropriate documentation for use of logo by community partners and vendors.
• Ensures all printed and online materials meet national brand specifications.
• Utilize Y-USA collateral and resources to messaging consistent with national promotions, initiatives, and campaigns.
• Ensures all program photography and videography is up to date and manages asset storage.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

• Critical Thinking & Decision Making
• Inclusion
• Engaging community

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s or Associates Degree in marketing, communications or related field or equivalent experience.
• Expertise in creating innovative and compelling print and electronic collateral
• Expertise in cross cultural communications
• Experience in online digital marketing and social media
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and Canva
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong editing and proofreading skills
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the capacity to work in a fast-paced environment
• A passion for growth and excellence
• A spirit of service and enthusiasm for the mission of the South Sound YMCA and our community
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a team environment
• South Sound YMCA’s - New Employee Orientation must be obtained within 45-days of hire.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to lift supplies / boxes as heavy as 30-40 lbs on occasion.
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.