Human Resources Position Description: Communications Coordinator



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Position Title:
.Communications Coordinator
Department:
Programs and Services
Reporting to:
Director of Programs and Services
Category:
Bargaining Unit
Last Updated:
11/03/2011
Hours per week:
37.50
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Summary:
Coordinates and implements internal and external communication activities including advertising, media relations, web site and the development of on-line and print publications. Working with the Director of Programs and Services and the management team, this role will be responsible for media and public relations, drafting media releases, providing proactive media relations, assisting with research, writing and editing of media guides, newsletters, public documents, website and background media material. Specific duties and responsibilities will also include, but are not limited to the following and may be subject to change:


Communications and Media Relations
  1. Develop and manage internal and external communications plans for a variety of projects.  This would include writing advertisements, brochures, conference hand-outs, internal newsletters and message power point presentations, and website copy. Monitors the internal and external environment to identify communications opportunities, challenges and issues.
  2. Provide ongoing communications counsel to the Executive Director, Managers, Staff and Board members. Consults with the management team on appropriate responses to relevant issues in the media.
  3. Develop and disseminate discussion pieces for the media and background documents on emerging issues.
  4. Develop and implement initiatives to increase ACT’s profile within the media, among community groups and the public.
  5. Act as the main media contact for the agency and disseminates media calls to other staff, as appropriate. Write press releases as required, develops media plans and maintains media lists and media relations. Coordinates media events such as press conferences, campaign launches, etc.
  6. Respond to public inquiries about ACT and HIV/AIDS issues.
  7. Develop and maintain information sheets, position papers, and backgrounders on current and emerging agency and HIV/AIDS issues. Gathers and maintains up-to-date statistics on HIV/AIDS.
  8. Provide media training for staff and people living with HIV/AIDS who can act as spokespeople on current and emerging issues.
  9. Coordinates the distribution of ACT print materials through our Community Information Board network.

Print and Online Publications
  1. Ensure proper budgeting, tendering and documentation for the development of agency publications.
  2. Coordinate the print production of all agency-wide communication materials.
  3. Help to establish agency-wide communication standards, a consistent image, as well as graphic standards and communicates these to staff and monitors their application. Explore and develop, as appropriate, new multimedia vehicles for agency communications (video, blogging, etc.)
  4. Write, produce and/or direct the production of materials such as agency brochures, newsletters, annual reports, speeches etc.
  5. Oversee the information flow and design of the ACT website and ensures that information is reviewed and regularly updated.
  6. Coordinate the activities of and, liaises with graphic designer and communications volunteers to ensure the timely production of professional and polished agency publications, digital and print.
  7. Coordinates the agency's presence on social media platforms.

Advertising and Marketing
  1. Develop and implement advertising and marketing strategies that support the delivery of programs and services while enhancing public and community awareness. This will include coordinating advertising in community newspapers, newsletters, special event publications, etc.
  2. Work with vendors such as advertising agencies and marketing firms to support and implement the above activities.

Administrative and General Duties
  1. Participate on teams and external committees to communicate information, resolve problems and achieve the goals of the organization.
  2. In addition to compliance with all organizational policies and procedures, the incumbent is also expected to behave ethically, demonstrate competence in effective communication and team building, demonstrate effectiveness in working in a collaborative environment, and demonstrate confidence in decision-making and in building relationships.
  3. Coordinate and chair the Advocacy and Communications Working Group comprised of staff with expertise in the advocacy, marketing, advertising and communication fields to assist with agency-wide initiatives.