Communications Manager

Position Overview

In this role, you will play a vital role in:

• Implementing effective communication strategies.
• Developing a PR strategy and building and maintaining media relations.
• Writing and copyediting original digital and print content.
• Maintaining and enhancing existing content.
• Increasing public awareness of AMS’s work.

Responsibilities:

• Supports the writing, editing, and proofreading of AMS content and publications, including Montessori Life blog, e-newsletters, brochures, social media posts, annual reports, video scripts, conference materials, and misc. marketing materials.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic public relations plan to enhance the organization's image and position within the Montessori and overall educational community.
• Oversee media relations, including building and sustaining relationships with media outlets, journalists, and, in collaboration with marketing colleagues, relevant influencers.
• Collaborate with internal teams, especially fellow Marketing and Communications colleagues, to ensure consistency and alignment of messaging across all communications channels.
• Writing and editing of web content, collaborating closely with teammates in social media and digital marketing, as well as the AMS team(s) responsible for the products, services, or benefits needing explanation and/or promotion.
• Support the executive director with such projects as: the crafting of strategic communications and presentations, quarterly member magazine column, annual reports, special publications, guest invitations, introduction speeches at The Montessori Event, AMS’s annual conference.
• Produce and make use of engagement metrics and reporting to measure the effectiveness of communications and public relations tactics, and make data-driven improvement as needed.
• Craft engaging and informative content that effectively communicates the organization's mission, initiatives, and achievements to diverse audiences.
• Monitor industry trends, news, and developments to identify opportunities for proactive communication and thought leadership opportunities.
• Assist in the development and distribution of educational reports, whitepapers, and other publications that contribute to the organization's publishing goals.
• Utilize, update, and maintain AMS’s writing style guidelines, and help to ensure their cross-departmental implementation.
• Serve as liaison to the Montessori Life magazine Editorial Advisory Board, and future liaison to AMS podcast advisory board (in development).

Requirements

• 3+ years of relevant work experience in copywriting and/or public relations. (Note: this is not a social media position, and applicants must demonstrate that their experience extends beyond social media.)
• Stellar written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to the audience.
• Flawless grammar and proofreading skills, and fully trustworthy be the “last set of eyes” on any piece of written copy.
• Demonstrable experience using communications, PR, and/or social media analytics platforms and the ability to make data-driven improvements.
• Working knowledge of SEO best practices in copywriting.
• Strong storytelling and content creation abilities, organizational skills, attention to detail, and creativity.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven team environment.
• interpersonal skills and ability to handle issues with respect and positivity.
• Passion for nonprofit work and for AMS's mission and commitment to making a difference in the community.
• An interest in or general knowledge of Montessori is a plus.
• Committed to diversity, equity and inclusion.