Communications Manager

Oceana Inc•Washington, DC

1d•$70,000 - $75,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The communications manager reports to Oceana’s U.S. communications director and is a member of the global marketing and communications department. The communications manager is responsible for leading public relations efforts to advance Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign. In addition to securing quality news coverage about the U.S. plastics campaign, the communications manager assists with all forms of communication and outreach related to targeted audiences (e.g., media, elected officials, supporters, and others), including reports, brochures, and fact sheets. The communications manager also works closely with Oceana’s in-house creative team and outside consultants to create materials for the organization’s target audiences. This position is responsible for providing writing and editing support to the U.S. plastics campaign as needed, including crafting messaging and drafting talking points, opinion pieces, press materials, and other documents. Additionally, the communications manager works with the campaign teams, communications staff, and Oceana’s marketing team to develop social media strategies that expand the visibility of Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign in new and existing social media channels. While the U.S. plastics campaign will be the communications manager’s primary focus, they may be directed to support other campaigns, communications, and organizational work as needed. Candidates must thrive in a fast-paced environment that requires quick decision-making under pressure and strong multi-tasking skills. Limited domestic travel may be required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or related field and 3-5 years of public relations experience, with demonstrated expertise in media relations, including pitching and writing for the media, and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong journalistic writing skills with excellent knowledge and use of the Associated Press Stylebook guidelines
Superb writing, editing, and verbal communication skills adaptable to a variety of audiences
Superior attention to detail and organizational skills
Ability to synthesize complicated scientific jargon quickly and accurately for lay audiences
Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively as a team player to coordinate projects, and work effectively with a variety of personalities
Ability to meet strict deadlines and work under pressure while maintaining good humor and high energy
Ability to approach problems with a sense of ownership, enthusiasm, and innovation
Ability to provide constructive, honest feedback to different stakeholders, including leadership
Comfortable with ambiguity and able to spot opportunities in times of change
Must be a proactive team player and have a positive, customer service attitude
Independent and original thinker, able to provide solutions both within the team environment and on their own
Ability to take initiative in suggesting ways to expand work and responsibilities of position to help Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign achieve its goals
In-depth knowledge and use of social media tools, networks, and online communities

Nice To Haves

Passion for politics is a plus
Spanish language fluency is a plus
Interest in ocean conservation and Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign is a plus

Responsibilities

Serve as a communications lead for Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign
Develop and execute communications strategies for Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign, managing initiatives through research, planning, implementation, and evaluation
Cultivate and manage successful relationships with key journalists, partners, vendors, and other stakeholders
Secure placements for Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign in top local, regional, and national media outlets, including tracking press coverage and meeting specific goals
Orchestrate, manage, and execute successful media tours and strategic events for Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign
Conceptualize, develop, and manage production of high-level strategic materials for Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign, ranging from communications plans and press releases to reports and advertising campaigns
Assist in the development, design, and production of reports and other materials, working closely with the campaign teams, communications staff, and outside vendors
Manage outside vendor agreements for Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign with the legal department
Provide writing and editing support for Oceana’s U.S. plastics campaign as needed
Find opportunities to spread Oceana’s U.S. campaign messages through traditional and online media sources such as letters-to-the-editor, op-eds, and blog posts. Efforts include drafting, editing, and placing opinion pieces
Work with Oceana’s marketing team to develop a stronger voice for the campaigns across social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram
Support Oceana’s field team with communications support for state and local campaign priorities
Secure speaking engagements for Oceana’s campaign experts