Description:
Type: Full-Time
Reports to: Chief Growth Officer
Office Location: 1801 W. Warner, Suite 202, Chicago IL; required in-office minimum of 3 days per week (hybrid work policy subject to change)
Background:
Guided by the experiences of those living with mental health conditions and rooted in equity, NAMI Chicago educates to fight stigma and discrimination, fiercely advocates for our community, and shares hope, connection and expertise with people on their mental health journey.
Who We Are Looking For:
NAMI Chicago is searching for a passionate and experienced leader to fill the role of Director of Communications and Engagement. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of communication and marketing principles, particularly within the nonprofit and healthcare sectors. We are looking for someone who is not only an expert in crafting and implementing impactful communication strategies but also has a proven ability to build and maintain relationships with media, community partners, and internal staff.
The right candidate will possess exceptional writing, editing, and public speaking skills, along with a talent for leading and mentoring a diverse team. They should have hands-on experience managing marketing contracts, developing grassroots engagement campaigns, and using data-driven approaches to measure success through key performance indicators (KPIs).
We seek a creative and innovative individual who can adapt to changing circumstances and effectively address emerging issues in the mental health landscape. This person will have a genuine commitment to mental health advocacy, a thorough knowledge of mental health issues, and the ability to communicate NAMI Chicago’s mission with clarity and passion.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
Communication Strategy and Messaging:
- Develop and implement a cohesive communication strategy that aligns with NAMI Chicago’s mission and goals.
- Ensure all organizational messaging is consistent, impactful, and aligned with our brand.
- Oversee the creation of high-quality content for various platforms, including the website, social media, publications, and internal communications.
Marketing and Branding:
- Drive the development and execution of marketing campaigns to enhance NAMI Chicago’s visibility and reputation.
- Ensure consistent application of branding guidelines across all communication channels and materials.
- Oversee the production and distribution of marketing materials, including brochures, newsletters, and digital content.
- Manage marketing contracts and collaborate with external vendors to achieve marketing objectives.
Media Relations:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets and journalists.
- Oversee the development and disseminate press releases, media kits, and pitches to secure media coverage.
- Identify and pitch opportunities to earned media.
Community Engagement:
- Develop and implement strategies to engage with the community, including individuals with lived experience, family members, and mental health advocates.
- Organize and participate in community events, workshops, and outreach activities.
- Foster partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community groups to expand NAMI Chicago’s reach and impact.
- Develop boots-on-the-ground engagement campaigns and measure their success through key performance indicators (KPIs).
Healthcare Provider Engagement:
- Build and maintain relationships with healthcare providers, including mental health professionals, hospitals, and clinics.
- Develop and execute initiatives to engage healthcare providers in NAMI Chicago’s programs and services.
- Collaborate with healthcare partners to promote mental health education and awareness.
Team Supervision and Development:
- Supervise a team of communications and engagement professionals, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities.
- Foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback to team members.
Requirements:
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge:
- Communication Strategies: In-depth understanding of communication principles, strategies, and best practices for nonprofits and healthcare organizations.
- Marketing and Branding: Comprehensive knowledge of marketing principles, brand management, and digital marketing tools.
- Media Relations: Familiarity with media relations techniques, press release writing, and media outreach.
- Community Engagement: Understanding of community engagement strategies, grassroots campaigns, and partnership development.
- Mental Health Issues: Knowledge of mental health issues, advocacy, and the mental health landscape in Chicago.
- Healthcare Systems: Understanding of healthcare systems and the roles of various healthcare providers in mental health.
Skills:
- Strategic Planning: Ability to develop and implement strategic communication plans that align with organizational goals.
- Writing and Editing: Excellent writing and editing skills for crafting clear, compelling messages across various platforms.
- Public Speaking: Strong public speaking and presentation skills for media interactions and public appearances.
- Project Management: Strong project management skills to oversee multiple campaigns and initiatives simultaneously.
- Digital Marketing: Proficiency in digital marketing tools, social media platforms, and content management systems.
- Data Analysis: Ability to analyze data and metrics to measure the effectiveness of communication strategies and campaigns.
Abilities:
- Leadership: Ability to lead, mentor, and develop a team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
- Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with media, community partners, and healthcare providers.
- Creative Thinking: Ability to think creatively and innovate in developing communication and engagement strategies.
- Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and emerging issues, ensuring communication strategies remain relevant and effective.
- Problem Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to address challenges and identify opportunities.
- Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, volunteers, and external partners to achieve organizational goals.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).
- At least 5 years of experience in a senior communications or marketing role, preferably in a nonprofit or healthcare setting.
- Proven experience in developing and implementing successful communication and marketing strategies.
- Experience managing marketing contracts and collaborating with external vendors.
- Experience developing boots-on-the-ground engagement campaigns and measuring their success through KPIs.
- Computer Skills: Proficiency Microsoft Access, Excel, and Word. Proficiency in Internet Explorer, Outlook/Exchange; Windows operating systems; and other software routinely used by NAMI Chicago.
Available Benefits:
- Compensation range begins at $95,000/year and is commensurate with experience
- Medical, Dental and Vision benefits
- Company Sponsored Life and AD&D Insurance
- Unmatched 401k Program
- Company sponsored wellness activities
NAMI Chicago is an inclusive employer, we welcome and encourage BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Veterans, Differently Abled, Returning Citizens and All Who Are Dedicated to Mental Health to Apply.