Job Description: Communication Director Reports to: President & CEO
Job Type: Exempt Full-time Position Direct Reports Comm & Membership Coordinator
Position Summary
Responsible for overall direction and coordination of communication to membership, stakeholders, and the media across the association and its foundation. Oversees print, web, and electronic communication, design, editorial content development, and production of member communication, publications and marketing materials including but not limited to weekly e-newsletter, texting service, web sites, email communication, social media, and buyers’ guide. Responsible for maintaining association brand and voice.
Primary Duties
Assumes full responsibility for sourcing, development, and production of electronic newsletters (distributed multiple times per week), CRA Today, Buyer’s Guide, texting service, social media and all other internal and external communication for the organization
Creates and builds monthly surveys, manages data collection, compiles key findings, and oversees graphic design for use with the media, elected officials, and public
Manages and maintains website content, including but not limited to, industry news, government affairs, events, press room; posts new original and sourced content to CRA website regularly
Works with Communication Coordinator to create, edit, and publish written and electronic documents, brochures, and articles as well as oral presentations
Oversees direction of member and chapter electronic communication including surveys, legislative alerts and updates, monthly meeting and event schedules
Enforces compliance with legal requirements in print and web content including monitoring contractual agreements, copyright and reprint, photography and design rights and permissions
Maintains CRA and CRF brands and use of trademarked logo throughout the organization
Assists with advertising sales development efforts for newsletter and website
Works with members and staff to develop communication programs to maximize organizational awareness, educate our target markets on CRA & CRF initiatives, and to report our achievements
Actively explores additional ways to get CRA & CRF messages out to members, the media, elected officials, and public
Additional Responsibilities
Assists the President & CEO and the Foundation President with government affairs communication, overall program communication, media calls and inquiries, press releases, and clippings
Collaborates regularly with external media and public relations consultants
Collaborates regularly with CRA staff to ensure appropriate messaging to members
Ensures aesthetic and navigational efficiency of website; tracks, captures and evaluates website statistics
Coordinates marketing and communication for the annual trade show (Colorado Restaurant & Bar Show) and other events
Contributes to planning efforts to improve communication and marketing program effectiveness
Provides vision and direction by keeping up to date and informed about industry news, trends, and developments that influence editorial content
Assists with board and committee communication initiatives and projects; serves as staff liaison to Communication Committee
Assures that all print, web, and electronic communication conveys the mission and image of the association and complies with association policies and procedures
Supports projects and cross-organizational efforts by providing communication and marketing expertise for initiatives including membership development, events, industry education, training programs and sponsor recognition
Maintains budget and financial controls by planning, preparing and monitoring communication budgets
Contact with Others
Considerable collaboration with department heads within the organization
Considerable interaction with outside service providers (e.g. web developers, printers, graphic designers, and PR/media relations consultants)
Manages Communication & Membership Coordinator
Regular interaction with VP of Strategic Partnerships, Foundation President and President & CEO
Frequent interaction with media community, members and partners
Essential Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Four-year college degree (preferably in journalism, communication, or related field)
5+ years relevant professional experience (preferably with trade association or foundation) including expertise in managing outside PR, media relations, and publishing service providers
Exceptional writing, grammar, editing, and proofreading skills with acute attention to detail and ability to adapt content for different audiences, purposes, and mediums
Demonstrated adeptness in setting priorities, making critical editorial decisions, meeting tight deadlines and managing multiple projects effectively and efficiently
Extensive experience in developing effective member, community, & media focused print and electronic communication
Professional polished presentation and communication skills; ability to effectively address various audiences including members, industry & community leaders, senior executives, media, and outside service providers
Self directed, results-oriented work style with ability to work in close harmony with others and willingness to accept responsibility and personal accountability
Working knowledge of content management systems (CMS) and web content publishing tools; familiarity with graphic design, layout process, and video production concepts
** Applicants should provide resume, cover letter and salary requirement when applying. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. No phone calls.
NOTES:
Additional Salary Information: Benefits include group medical, dental, and vision, short and long term disability, company paid life, paid time off, 401(k) plan, parking, cell phone allowance.
About Colorado Restaurant Association
Founded in 1933, The Colorado Restaurant Association is dedicated to the enhancement and success of Colorado's foodservice industry.
