Communications Manager

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT Communications Manager The Legal Aid Society - Employment Law Center (LAS-ELC) is a civil rights organization that has for over 40 years represented low wage workers on issues related to their employment. The LAS-ELC offers a special opportunity for an energetic, creative, and results-oriented individual to design and implement communications strategies to increase the reach and impact of its services and the success of its fundraising efforts. Founded in 1916, the LAS-ELC is the oldest nonprofit legal service agency west of the Rockies. Today the organization is a recognized authority on employment issues affecting the working poor, and utilizes direct legal services, education and policy initiatives, technical assistance, and social justice litigation to strengthen the civil and employment rights of disadvantaged workers. LAS-ELC operates on a $4.4 million annual budget with 32 employees, a vibrant law clerk program and more than 100 volunteer attorneys. Major Responsibilities Develop and implement a comprehensive communications plan in cooperation with the President and External Relations team. Devise overall strategy and employ multiple tactics to target varied constituents and communities. Manage all internal and external messaging. Ensure all branding and communications efforts are aligned with specific strategy and meet organizational standards. Write and /or edit, and coordinate the production and distribution of all print and electronic materials of the External Relations department including client stories, program descriptions, newsletters, brochures, annual report, e-mail alerts, and updates to the LAS-ELC public website. With input from legal staff, generate and maintain content for the LAS-ELC website in a timely manner. Ensure that new and consistent information (article links, stories, and events) fits with the communications plan and is posted regularly. Arrange for and monitor translation of content to other languages. Manage assignments to and monitor performance of outside contractors as appropriate. Lead the generation of online content for LAS-ELC social media campaigns (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn). Manage social media to maximize online community engagement with the LAS-ELC. Focus efforts to establish and sustain network of LAS-ELC law clerk alumni. Identify opportunities to promote LAS-ELC’s programs and enhance the organization’s profile in the legal, business, law school, government, general public and philanthropic communities. Write and/or edit articles and op ed pieces that promote the LAS-ELC’s work and highlight its staff. Develop and maintain relationships with media representatives and maintain media contact database. Lead and manage public relations strategies on particular cases or issues. Draft press releases and direct in-house press conferences and follow-up. Manage the Board Communications Committee, leveraging its professional resources on LASELC’s behalf. Attend, report to and participate in meetings of the Board, Executive Committee, External Relations Committee, and Luncheon Committee. Develop and implement strategic communication efforts to grow and strengthen the Annual Fund, Annual Luncheon and other fundraising initiatives. Track and measure the effectiveness of all communications activities, employing site analytics and other tools as appropriate. Job Qualifications and Personal Attributes The LAS-ELC welcomes attorneys, marketing/communications professionals and non-profit leaders as applicants. Candidates with core skills in communications, business development, sales and marketing will be considered as well. A successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following: Leadership, planning and project oversight skills. Ability to develop, cultivate and maintain strong internal and external relationships with key stakeholders. Superior writing in different styles and voices. Ability to draft full pieces on legal topics working from basic points. Experience and/or interest in writing and speaking about legal concepts and events. Success in managing an external communication program to expand brand recognition and public awareness. Effectiveness in media interaction; knowledge of public relations and communications principles. Excellent verbal communication, interpersonal and presentation skills. Highly organized and detail-oriented with a collaborative work style and commitment to do hands on work. Demonstrated skill in use of social media platforms, web content management, SEO and analytic tools. Ability to multitask, handle pressure and meet deadlines. An undergraduate degree is a minimum requirement. A deep belief in the mission and values of the LAS-ELC is essential. Compensation The compensation package includes a competitive salary and generous benefits, including fully paid health insurance for employees and dependents, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions, and generous time off benefits. The LAS-ELC is an equal opportunity employer and places a high value on workforce diversity. To Apply: Email cover letter outlining qualifications and interest, and resume in MS Word or PDF format to Christine Todd, Chief Operating Officer, at ctodd@las-elc.org. Legal Aid Society – Employment Law Center 180 Montgomery Street, Suite 600 San Francisco, CA 94104 415 593-0096 fax