Communications Manager en Catholic Social Services

In partnership with the Chief Communications Officer (CCO), the Communications Manager is responsible for operations oversight of internal and external communication programs, including creation and execution of communication plans, media relations, advocacy and policy work, and news analysis. The Communications Manager will supervise communications staff and be responsible for the development and mentoring of the team. The Communications Manager reports directly to the Chief Communications Officer.

CSS has a culture of philanthropy, and as such, the Communications Manager works closely with the Development Director to ensure consistent messaging is presented to donors, staff, and the community at a large.

CSS is a Catholic human and social services agency and behavioral health care provider that welcomes people of all faiths through its programs and employment. We provide help for our Alaskan neighbors through a variety of supportive service programs, including emergency shelter, food stability, housing, case management, and refugee assistance. CSS empowers individuals and families on their path to permanent stability, creating thriving communities for all. Located in Anchorage, Alaska, CSS is a nationally accredited organization through the Council on Accreditation (COA), which recognizes that CSS provides high quality services that meet best practice standards in the social service field. 

Mission: The mission of Catholic Social Services is to promote the physical, spiritual and mental welfare of persons in need in the community.  This mission is achieved by:

• Offering charitable assistance to those in need, especially persons who are poor
• Developing and conducting programs to strengthen and support families and the dignity of the human person
• Administering the Corporal Works of Mercy and Gospel of Jesus Christ as defined by the magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church and envisioned by the traditional concepts of Catholic Social Teaching and Action through the laity
• And advocating for social justice for the common good of all

The communications team has the great privilege of sharing the stories of our community and engaging our

community partners. Effective communication is critical to client outcomes. It builds trust, clarifies access to

services, and attracts the resources and partnerships necessary for program success.

Through consistent and authentic storytelling, we envision a community where every person served by CSS is

seen, valued, and supported. Our communications will unite staff, volunteers, donors, and partners in a shared

commitment to dignity, justice, and lasting impact, all rooted in Catholic social teaching.

Must be flexible, dependable, and demonstrate attention to detail and organization. Individuals must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and experience in storytelling and public relations. The Communications Manager must have a strong work ethic, positive attitude and the ability to work with internal teams, management, collaborators, and vendors. Must be able to maintain confidentiality and treat all individuals with dignity and respect. Must be able to multitask and prioritize projects.

Knowledge: 

• Knowledge of Communication and Content Campaigns, Plans, and tactics
• Knowledge of Motivational Interviewing.
• Knowledge of Trauma Informed Care.

Skills: 

• Proficient in WordPress, MailChimp, Adobe Suite, Canva, Social Media/Web Platforms, Microsoft Office/Teams
• Team Management
• Conflict-Resolution

Management

• Supervise the communications team of specialists 
• In partnership with CCO and Development team, develop and manage content calendar, ensure successful execution and completion of campaigns within timelines
• Maintain relationship with outside vendors and communications budget (e.g., printing materials, software invoices)
• Manage internal and external communications, including newsletters, E-Appeals, and social media in alignment with CSS’s mission
• Manage communication platforms, including websites, social media and MailChimp

Content Creation

• Collaborate with Program Directors, Managers, and departments to increase external communication and outreach
• Develop compelling stories (still & motion), written journalism to communicate CSS Programs
• Translate data and technical information into infographics
• Coordinate with internally and with web developers on website content

Tracking

• Responsible for all metric and dashboard tracking, including Google Analytics and MailChimp data, reporting to CCO and leadership teams
• All content, including campaigns, awareness campaigns, and social media content via content calendar

Media

• Write and distribute media/press/news releases; proactively identify, and pitch media stories in alignment with communication strategy; assist CCO as backup spokesperson for press events and inquiries
• Support and conduct media training for interviews with internal subject matter experts (SME’s)

Advocacy and Outreach Events

• Support CCO in creation of written materials and resources for education and advocacy efforts, including white papers, talking points, op ed, etc.
• Monitor pertinent legislation as needed on federal, state and local level. 
• In partnership with CCO, support and coordinate outreach events in advocacy of communication and CSS goals

Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or related field. Four (4) years of experience may be substituted for the required education.

Minimum Experience Requirement: Four (4) years in communications, marketing, journalism, or related field with at least one (1) in a supervisory or management capacity. Experience at a non-profit is preferred. 

A relevant combination of education and experience may be considered. 

Work is performed in a standard indoor office environment. Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds. Frequently sitting or standing at a desk for several hours at a time.

Travel outside of Alaska is rare. Frequent travel within the Municipality of Anchorage is required. Occasional travel to the Matanuska-Susitna Borough is required.

Location: 4600 Debarr Road, Anchorage, Alaska