Communications Manager

Location: In-person, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Department: Marketing and Communications

Reports To: Communications Director

Position Summary:

Ducks Unlimited (DU) is seeking a dynamic and strategic Communications Manager to lead communications efforts, including issues related to agriculture and public policy. This role will work closely with DU’s Communications Director, as well as agriculture and public policy staff, to develop and implement a robust communications strategy that elevates DU’s priorities and supports broader initiatives.

Ducks Unlimited is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing wetland habitat. The position is responsible for educating legislators, DU volunteers, members, and key stakeholders on the impact of conservation practices, including benefits to wildlife and the importance of wetlands to water quality and other ecosystem services across North America.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute comprehensive communications strategies around DU’s agricultural priorities.
• Manage media relations, including drafting press releases, pitching stories, and cultivating relationships with journalists.
• Create compelling content for various platforms, including web, social media, newsletters, and print.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure consistent messaging across agriculture and policy communications.
• Translate complex agricultural and policy issues into clear, concise, and engaging communications.
• Support rapid response efforts and manage communications under tight deadlines.
• Maintain and update web content related to agriculture and policy.
• Assist the Communications Director with public policy communications and strategic messaging.
• Represent DU in communications efforts with state, local, and federal partners.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications, preferably in agriculture, public policy, or political environments.
• Demonstrated expertise in agriculture and strong political acumen.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines under pressure.

Preferred Skills:

• Understanding of agricultural policy and issues.
• Experience in state, local, or federal politics.
• Strong writing and editing skills with an ability to tailor messaging for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in social media strategy and content creation.
• Graphic design experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with wildlife and conservation issues.
• Appreciation for the outdoors and DU’s mission.
• Self-motivated and highly organized.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently.

SALARY AND BENEFITS PACKAGE: Salary commensurate with experience. We work hard to encourage everyone at Ducks Unlimited to bring their authentic selves to work every day. DU offers an exceptional benefit package that includes comprehensive group medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, including spouse and dependent coverage; three weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave and 10 paid holidays; 401(k) plan (including partial employer match); and tuition reimbursement.

 Application Instructions: To apply, please fill out all application materials and submit a cover letter indicating why you are interested in the position and a resume highlighting your qualifications.

DUCKS UNLIMITED, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
It is the policy of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to afford equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, military status, disability, age, or genetic information, except where age or gender is a bona fide occupational qualification as allowed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It is the policy of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to afford equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 or over), disability (physical, mental or visual), genetic information, marital status (including registered domestic partnership status), military and veteran status, immigration status, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.