Communications Specialist

United Way of Brevard, Florida (UWB) was established in 1957 by a group of concerned individuals who wanted to help those who were in need. Our work focuses on the building blocks of a good life – Education, Income and Health. Our community wins when kids succeed in school, adults can secure a good job, manage their finances, and provide a healthy environment for their families. Together, the contributions of thousands of individual donors become a force for change in the community. 
POSITION SUMMARY AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Communications Specialist assists in developing and promoting United Way and its work to Brevard.

•    Assists in the planning and execution of a year-round public relations strategy, developing and maintaining media relationships and identifying new opportunities for public relations activities to enhance UWB standing in the community.
•    Assists with development of communications plans.
•    Helps prepares internal and external communications, assuring accuracy and timeliness of communications such as; op-eds, press releases, speaking points, campaign materials, speeches, electronic newsletters, presentations, targeted brochures, flyers and invitations.
•    Works on marketing materials with local advertising agency.
•    Helps with social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram).
•    Monitors and manages budgets.
•    Represents UWB and cultivates relationships with media contacts and sponsors, assuring proper follow up and follow through to assure excellent customer relations.
•    Must meet deadlines.
•    Manages sensitive issues and crisis communications
•    Updates UWB website.
•    Coordinates planning of special events, as appropriate.
•    Responsible for the coordination of the organization’s photography needs and accompanies photographer (when outside contractor is needed) with shot list, direction and retrieves name information.
•    Responsible for video production requests – event videos, campaign video, etc
•    Performs other duties and assumes other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor.
•    Due to the leadership role United Way is called upon to play in the community, particularly during times of crisis, it is the expectation that all United Way staff will be fully engaged in the organization's crisis plan and response efforts.
•    Ensures communication efforts adhere to budget and brand guidelines. 
•    Ensure projects for review, proofreading and approvals meet deadlines.
•    Assists in planning/implementing market research projects, and facilitates use in strategic development.
•    Assists in training staff on United Way’s brand and key messages.
•    Writes and edits copy for various applications (print, presentations, ads, press releases).
•    Assures work is performed within established policies and procedures.
•    Assists with the Annual Report/Community Impact Report
•    Maintains accurate media list, including print, radio, television, and company newsletters.
•    Attends United Way functions some which may be after hours.
Environment, Physical Activity, and Mental Demands
•    The environment is climate controlled (i.e., heated and air-conditioned).  Lighting is adequate through overhead lighting as well as windows and blinds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
•    Physical demands include sitting and/or standing for extended periods of time, bending, lifting approximately 25 pounds, regular use of the telephone, copier, fax and computer.  Demands also involve protracted concentration. The incumbent in this position must be able to read and interpret documents or instruments; possess strong telephone skills; perform highly detailed work; assist or guide problem solving; perform mathematical functions; prepare written communication; perform specialized analytical reasoning; withstand stress; and handle multiple, concurrent tasks and constant interruptions. Will be required to develop skills in the operation of the ANDAR database software.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS 
These specifications are general guidelines based on the minimum experience normally considered essential to the satisfactory performance of this position.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required to perform the position in a satisfactory manner.  Individual abilities may result in some deviation from these guidelines.
Education and Experience
•    Bachelor's Degree or equivalent, including two years’ experience in public relations, advertising, communications, or marketing. 
•    Experience with video and photography. 
•    Experience working with or knowledge of United Way operations desirable. 
•    Superior writing skills. 
•    Proficient in computer skills and digital literacy (minimum of Microsoft and Adobe software programs).
Skills and Abilities 
•    Flexibility is a key attribute for this position.
•    Digital Marketing
•    Creating Brand Experiences for Everyone
•    Drives Engagement
•    Effective and Engaging Communication
•    Visionary
Personal Characteristics and Skills 
•    Dedicated to shared and measurable goals for the common good – creating, resourcing, scaling and leveraging strategies for broad investment and impact.  
•    Able to build trust in United Way and its relevance in the community. 
•    Values the network and strives to leverage United Way’s breadth of community presence, relationships, and strategy.
•    Understand community trends and human service issues. 
•    Ability to build relationships with different types of people, including clients, organization members, and providers.
United Way of Brevard is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a competitive salary, a learning environment, and employee benefits to include health insurance, paid holidays, paid time off, and a retirement plan. This role is in person.  Please apply online or submit your resume and cover letter to hr@uwbrevard.org.

UNITED WAY CORE COMPETENCIES FOR ALL STAFF
•    Mission-Focused: Catalyze others’ commitment to mission to create real social change that leads to better lives and healthier communities.  This drives their performance and professional motivations. 
•    Relationship-Oriented: Understands that people come before process and is astute in cultivating and managing relationships toward a common goal. 
•    Collaborator: understands the roles and contributions of all sectors of the community and can mobilize resources (financial and human) through meaningful engagement.
•    Results-Driven: Dedicated to shared and measurable goals for the common good; creating, resourcing, scaling, and leveraging strategies and innovations for broad investment and impact.
•    Brand Steward: Steward of the brand and understands his/her role in growing and protecting the reputation and results of the greater network.
ABOUT BREVARD COUNTY FLORIDA
Brevard County, Florida, also known as Florida’s Space Coast, is a groundbreaking region along the east coast of the Sunshine State. Home to the world-famous launch pads of Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Brevard County’s rich history is built upon generations of high-tech talent, yet boasts a small-town community feel where members can truly make a difference. With an abundance of amenities for the right work-life balance, Florida’s Space Coast offers a unique lifestyle with tropical weather, cultural activities, educational opportunities, year-round outdoor recreation, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Even the world's most significant vacation playground is just a short ride, which means you can get annual passes for endless access to the thrills and off-season crowds at Orlando theme parks and attractions, all while enjoying the relaxed oceanside community that has sent man to the moon, and continues to launch advances for humankind. You can learn more about the endless lifestyle options found here, at www.LiveBigSpaceCoast.com.