Summary of Position

The Director of Communications leads the communication process, ensuring a consistent message and improving St. Joseph’s Indian School’s reputation among target audiences.  This position develops, implements and monitors a comprehensive communication strategy that strengthens the organization’s brand reputation and aligns with St. Joseph’s Indian School’s mission, vision and core values. This is an exempt position.

Accountability

Reports to the President

Core Responsibilities

• Directs Communications efforts
• Monitors communications across and outside the organization
• Supports Public Relations planning

Responsibilities

1. As part of Corporate Services, works across Child Services, Development and Corporate Services to develop and execute strategies from the strategic communications plan, in order to advance brand identity and increase visibility across key audiences.   

2. In partnership with the President, manages relationships with partners and contracted staff working on public and media relations.

3. Monitors, researches and proactively responds to the interest level and concerns of the public received through various media channels. Evaluates performance by analyzing and interpreting data and metrics.

4. Oversees communication, coordination and alignment of organizational priorities and strategies related to media relations including, maintenance of a press kit and crisis management plan, development of talking points, distribution of media releases and generation of positive media coverage. Works to minimize potential negative impacts by maximizing preparedness through resiliency training and crisis templates. 

5. Monitors various mediums (websites, press releases, podcasts, videos and more), seeking out compelling stories in Child Services, Development, Outreach and the Province Offices to inspire, engage and inform key stakeholder audiences and create understanding of programs.

6. Advances brand identity through the brand voice and values document, style guide and organizational style document. Develops and maintains logo guidelines and ensures compliance.

7. Assists in staff trainings on issues related to communications and effective messaging.

8. Cultivates strong historical knowledge of the Organization in order to develop properly targeted messaging and positioning.

9. Oversees special project needs with various constituents outside of St. Joseph’s, including tribal and government entities, promoting publicity and awareness, in the proper measure. 

10. Supports the President of St. Joseph’s Indian School in the role of the organization’s spokesperson.

11. Supports Human Resources in the effort to engage and retain employees through the use of communications, surveys and other tools. 

12. Develops, manages and monitors project timelines and budgets for responsibilities outlined above.

13. Performs other responsibilities as required by the President of St. Joseph’s Indian School.

Qualifications

• BA in Journalism, Communication, English, or related field required
• MA in Public Relations or Corporate Communication preferred
• Experience in media coverage and strategy
• Professional, published writing and other communication skills are required
• Exceptional communication skills

Physical Demands

• Uses both hands and wrists repetitively for prolonged periods
• Driving is required
• May require standing or sitting for prolonged periods

Expectations of Hours Worked

40 hours or more per week.