Communications & Events Manager
17 hours ago
Bryan
Job Description:\n\nCommunications & Events Manager (CEM) Job DescriptionFacility: Brazos Valley Food Bank (BVFB) Position: Full-time (at least 40 hours/week)Position Title: Communication & Event Manager (CEM) Department Name: Development (key functions of fundraising and communications/marketing) Reports To: Executive Director Pay Range: $57,750-$63,000Classification: Exempt Job Summary of the Communication & Event Manager (CEM):The Communication & Event Manager (CEM): Following strategy from the Executive Director and Fundraising & Marketing Committee of the Board of Directors, the CEM leads the planning, implementation and tracking of results for all communication and special events needed to sustain and grow the mission and work of the Brazos Valley Food Bank (BVFB). This includes ensuring the successful planning, execution, and outcomes of BVFB’s Special Events; the coordination of logistics for Third-Party fundraisers; development and/or updating of collateral and content (stories, photos, videos, etc.) for BVFB’s portfolio of marketing tools (website, social media, fliers, emails, media advisories, etc.), as well as oversight of external communication requests (community events, student group projects, speaking engagements, tours, media requests, etc.). BVFB’s has 4 signature events/year, manages relationships with dozens of Third-Party fundraising groups, has a large social media and website reach and is very involved in community education of hunger through speaking engagements, media interviews, etc. The CEM co-supervises the Community Experience Assistant (CEA) with a peer, the Fund Development Manager. The CEM will exhibit integrity, passion and optimism for the work; balance ambition with humility, focusing on truth in advertising and dignified portrayals of people facing hunger; be researched and intentional in action; understand the importance of collaboration across departments, while also being an employee, peer and supervisor who drives results, ensures follow through and remains mission and donor centric. Primary ResponsibilitiesSpecial Event Planning, Execution and TrackingWith the Executive Director, consult the Fundraising & Marketing Committee of the Board on key players, themes, décor, etc. for events Plan and execute agreed upon details for BVFB-led events, including developing and adhering to written timelines, logistics, coordination with venues, vendors, contractors, and volunteers to ensure smooth execution of events.Delegate clerical event tasks to the Community Experience Assistant (CEA) and ensure follow- throughPlan, develop and get approval of all promotional strategies, including invitations, sponsorship packages, videos, social media, press releases, etc. Develop a detailed run-of-show for each event, ensuring all roles are clear and tasks are completed on schedule.Coordinate with the Fund Development Manager who is responsible for securing monetary sponsors for eventsCoordinate with the Accounting & Fundraising Professional on event donation collection processes and needsDocument all event processes in detail; schedule and help facilitate After Action Reviews of each event Third-Party Fundraisers Coordination and TrackingBuild and maintain strong relationships with third-party event organizers, including securing annual commitments before annual budgeting process, handling BVFB responsible logistics, commitments, etc. Attend events, when possible, to take photos and ensure events comply with BVFB branding, messaging, and fundraising guidelinesTrack outcomes and evaluate event effectiveness for future planning.Organizational Communications - GeneralManage all external communications across website, email, social media, and print platforms by producing, reviewing, and publishing accurate, engaging content.Ensure brand consistency by applying approved visual standards, tone, and messaging across all communication channels.Maintain communication style guides, templates, and collateral, updating them regularly to support brand clarity and team-wide usage.Develop high-level messaging, ensuring alignment with leadership guidance and BVFB strategic goals.Storytelling, Photo & Video ContentCollect neighbor, volunteer, donor, and partner stories in a dignified manner that reflect their diversity and lived experiences.Capture high-quality photos representing BVFB programs, events, and community interactions for various platforms (direct mail, website, emails, social media, other promotions, etc.) while adhering to brand and dignity standards.Plan, record, and edit video content that supports fundraising, advocacy, educational and other strategic plan priorities.Ensure all required release forms from interviews and of photos and/or video are collected, securely stored, and tracked for compliance and future use (including those from the Volunteer Center).Ensure that a well-organized digital library of photo, video, and story assets for easy internal access is maintained.Collect stories utilizing ethical and consistent content-collection practices, including privacy and cultural sensitivity.Ensure all storytelling and imagery is diverse, representative, and mission aligned.Website ManagementOversee timely updates, layout adjustments, and content audits to ensure accuracy and strong user experience.Manage donation pages and web-based appeals to ensure clarity and maximize donor engagement.Monitor website analytics to evaluate visitor behavior and recommend data-driven improvements.Email CommunicationsCoordinate monthly e-newsletters and educational email updates by gathering stories, visuals, and organizational information.Ensure accuracy, clarity, and dignity in all email messaging.Maintain segmented email lists for donors, volunteers, partners, and general audiences.Track performance metrics (open rates, clicks, conversions) and use data to refine future communication strategies.Social Media ManagementDevelop social media content by following a strategic content calendar aligned with BVFB priorities.Ensure scheduled posting across all social media accounts for consistency of messaging. Respond to all comments and messages in accordance with communication policies and community engagement guidelines.Analyze platform insights to identify trends, strengthen engagement, and expand reach.Identify, research, and document a plan for opportunities for collaborations, campaigns, and new digital engagement strategies.Annual ReportLead collection of data, photos, key accomplishments, letters, etc. to develop the Annual Report.Manage design and layout to ensure the report is clear, professional, and visually aligned with the BVFB brand.Develop infographics, graphs, and charts to best illustrate the data for the report.Coordinate review and approval processes with leadership and relevant staff.Media RelationsDraft and distribute media advisories and press releases under leadership direction.Serve as the primary media contact, coordinating all interviews and opportunities through the Executive Director.Track all media activities, including inquiries, opportunities, and published mentions.Maintain updated media contact lists across all counties served by BVFB.Staff Support & SupervisionOversee all Event and communication training, goal setting, coaching for the CEA Conduct regularly scheduled, documented one-on-one meetings with the CEAInstill in CEA the importance of the highest customer serviceCheck all work of direct reports before releasing externallyRecommend training and conference opportunities for growth for CEA, when applicable and if funds allowHandle all disciplinary action per policy related to CEA performance/conductConduct regularly scheduled workload management meetings with CEA and Fund Development ManagerConduct required joint performance reviews of the CEAAssist with hiring of new members of the Development Department, when requestedPolicy Development & ImplementationResearch, draft, and get reviewed and approved various procedures, such asCommunication Style GuideCrisis Communication PlanUse of AI in CommunicationsSocial Media comments responseExpense ManagementDevelop annual expenses based on historical spending, as well as potential needs for the Communications/Events cost centerEnsure Communication and Event expenses adhere to budgetReview all bids, quotes & proposals for relevant work per policy and discuss with Executive Director before actingCompliance, Audits/Monitoring Visits, and ReportingRepresent Communications and Events during auditing events (annual independent financial audit, Houston Food Bank Affiliate Food Bank monitoring visit, other)Ensures that BVFB strategies adhere to contractual obligations, when applicable (AFB contract, direct mail contract, etc.)Ensure all required department reports are completed and submitted on timeReview reports to analyze trends, needs, etc. Use of Technology Ensure that technology that is in use and available is best used to enhance efficiency, etc.Use of Volunteers: (where appropriate)With direct reports, identifying and communicating volunteer needs, training, and supervisionDeveloping written job descriptions, including skills and education needed to fulfill the jobOther TasksMaintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for events and communication tasks.Follow all BVFB written Policies & ProceduresGet approval from the Executive Director in advance of any unbudgeted financial expenditureDiscuss all ideas and changes with the Executive Director before acting, during probationary periodAttend and come prepared for all 1:1 session with the Executive DirectorAttend and actively participate in all weekly strategy meetings with the Executive Director and Fund Development ManagerAttend and actively participate in All Staff Quarterly scheduled staff meetingsCommunicate effectively, appropriately and in a timely fashion with the Executive DirectorEngage with and participate in relevant Feeding America (FA) opportunitiesServe as the BVFB representative with Feeding Texas (FT) committees/work groups/trainings representing CommunicationPlanning for and controlling/managing changeKeep empowerment of people facing hunger in mind with all that you doAssist in BVFB disaster related efforts, when neededOther duties as assigned and needed QualificationsEducationalDegree in Communication, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field. ProfessionalMinimum 3 years of paid, relevant experience, which can include a combination of professional, large-scale event planning and implementation, combined with paid, professional communication/marketing work, preferably in a nonprofit settingExperience taking professional photos with samples of real-life professional utilizationExperience with video production for professional applicationExperience with public speaking in a professional settingExperience interviewing (storytelling) and being interviewed (media)Experience with website design and updates in a professional setting Experience developing and sending press releases and media advisoriesComputer/Technical SkillsProficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, google docsExperience using Canva and/or other online design and publishing toolsExperience in websites development/maintenance, including Word Press platformsProficient in Social media pathways; preferably experience integrating allExperience tracking social media analyticsPHOTOGRAPHYProficiency in video editing softwareProficiency using email (Outlook) and web-based toolsExperience using video conferencing tools, such as Teams, Zoom and other Soft SkillsHighly responsive, conscientious, and professional with BVFB staff, Board and existing and potential BVFB constituentsSuperior verbal and written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain concepts in compelling, as well as concrete termsAbility to set priorities, implement activities and meet deadlinesStrong follow-through, including after action reviewsComfortable talking with people of all levels of society, storytelling, making connections, etc. Highly ethical, with firm boundariesDriven and enthusiastic but also mission-grounded and inspiredComfortable in uncertainty and a fast-changing environmentExperience with developing and adhering to a professional budgetProven coaching/managerial experience (3-5 years minimum)Ability to extract and analyze data; create charts and graphicsAbility to juggle multiple projects with diligence and accuracy while adhering to deadlines in a high-energy, fast-paced environmentAble to work independently, yet proven ability to collaborate with other staff/other departments/diverse range of people to complete tasksAbility to work in an evolving environment with the utmost integrity, objectivity, fairness, and transparencyAbility to communicate procedures across the organization in an open and effective wayIntegrity and understanding of confidentiality necessary Must be ethical, exercise good judgement and discretionKnowledge of food bank operations and programs, as well as government safety net programs, a plus Interested in learning more about model practices and industry standards and how to apply themUnderstanding of office procedures/management OtherPassion for the mission of feeding peopleMust be able to give and accept constructive criticismMust be able to pass criminal background checkPossible overnight stays for conferences/trainingsADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS WITH OR WITHOUT REASONABLE ACCOMODATIONAbility to walk, stand, sit, kneel, push, stoop, reach above the shoulder, grasp, pull, bend repeatedly, identify colors, hear with aid, see, write, count, read, speak, analyze, alphabetize, lift and carry up to 50 lbs., perceive depth, operate a motor vehicle, and operate motor equipment.Conditions may include working inside, working outside, working alone, working protracted or irregular hours, and traveling by car, van, bus, and airplane.Equipment (machines, tools, devices) used in performing only the essential functions including computer and related equipment, calculator, copier, fax machine, telephone, and automobile. This job description may not be inclusive of all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described, and may be amended at anytime at the sole discretion of the Brazos Valley Food Bank. The Brazos Valley Food Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Powered by JazzHR nhdA53uve5