Position Summary
The Director of Strategic Communications will develop and implement communication and marketing strategies for the media, allied organizations, supporters, legislators, policymakers and the general public in order to broaden awareness and visibility of BCAC, its issues, priorities and public policy agenda . The Director of Strategic Communications will support the Executive Director in cultivating meaningful relationships with targeted, high-level external audiences, including the media, key policymakers, legislators, relevant constituents and BCAC donors.
The position requires experience in formulating messages and implementing media strategies and tactics that reach and inform diverse constituents. The Director of Strategic Communications will work collaboratively with senior staff to develop and implement all communication materials and messages. The Director of Strategic Communications reports directly to the Executive Director.

Specific Responsibilities

a. Oversee production of all BCAC communications including fact sheets, annual report, The State of the Child in Bridgeport, newsletters, issue specific reports and related collateral materials.

b. Develop marketing and dissemination strategies for BCAC reports, social media outlets, major events and initiatives.

c. Create audience specific newsletters/updates for key political leaders, donors, and other stakeholders.

d. Develop fundraising materials including case statements, direct mail appeals, fundraising campaigns, major donor packets, and donor recognition correspondence.

e. Develop overall strategy for community education, community engagement, mobilization, and family advocacy.

f. Develop community education campaign messages and talking points, legislative testimony and supporting materials as needed for the Executive Director, senior staff and Board members.

g. Actively cultivate, and manage press relationships to ensure coverage of BCAC’s issues including writing op-eds and letters, gathering stories from constituents, organizing news conferences and media briefings.

h. Organize public education and advocacy events such as community forums, public hearings and other special events including the Annual Breakfast.

i. Develop content and strategic plan for the BCAC website and other social media outlets.

j. Maintain a system for tracking and reporting media placements and coverage.

k. Provide writing and editorial support to senior staff for all written communication.

l. Create and make presentations to key political leaders, donors, foundations and other key stakeholders as determined by the Executive Director.

m. Prepare grant applications, required grant reports and serve as the primary contact for grant deliverables as determined by the Executive Director.

n. Supervise volunteers, interns and/or consultants.

o. Design, staff and/or lead special projects as assigned by the Executive Director

Qualifications

a. Experience in journalism, public relations, communication, and/or marketing. Masters degree preferred.

b. Experience working on broad range of public policy and human service issues, such as education, health care and economic self-sufficiency is preferred.

c. Ability to gather, synthesize and present information in a professional, practical and compelling manner.

d. Excellent and persuasive interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.

e. Demonstrated ability to write, present visuals and speak to a variety of audiences, including parents, potential donors, current donors, foundations, legislators, the public and professional peer organizations.

f. Ability to work independently and in partnership with other staff in a collaborative, team environment.

g. Excellent organizational skills, proven ability to multi task, prioritize, problem solve and meet deadlines.

h. Working knowledge of multiple computer software programs including Word, Excel, Access, Publisher, and PowerPoint.

i. Ability to work flexible hours including weekend days and weekday evenings.

To Apply:
All applications are held in strict confidence. No phone calls, please.
To be considered, applications must be submitted by September 16, 2011.
Credentials and a letter of interest should be submitted to:
Bridgeport Child Advocacy Coalition
Attention: Search Committee
2470 Fairfield Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06605
Or via email: mphealy@bcacct.org

Compensation:
Applicants are requested to submit their salary requirements

The Bridgeport Child Advocacy Coalition is an Equal Opportunity Employer.