The Communications Specialist plays a crucial role within the Philanthropy and Communication Department, reporting to the Philanthropy Manager. This position implements communication strategies and provides project management support for annual philanthropy, major and principal gifts, stewardship, and individual donor relations. This role will contribute to communication efforts, events, appeals, and stewardship projects to foster meaningful, lifelong relationships with JABA donors.

Communications - Social media creation and management, email marketing (newsletter), website creation and content management, writing (print, website, social media, email, radio, TV, public relations), photography, and video for donor communications in collaboration with Philanthropy Manager and Communications Manager.
Execute digital communication, audience segmentation, list management and data-driven messaging using MailChimp and Abila
Create segmented lists for mail and email communication using Abila
Analyze and distribute digital engagement metrics (e.g., open rates, click rates and conversions) to inform strategy and enhance effectiveness
Develop and implement printed and digital communication campaigns to engage donors and inspire giving in collaboration with the philanthropy and communications team
Produce digital communications for annual philanthropy campaigns, multi-generational donor engagement, major gifts, donor relations, and stewardship initiatives
Assist with executing all annual fundraising campaigns and giving days in partnership with the Philanthropy Manager
Maintains the donor CRM database and collaborates on all donor communications
Create and maintain event RSVP forms, invitations and attendance lists, and serve as the Philanthropy Services point of contact for JABA events.
Support the delivery of stewardship messages for annual, major, and principal gifts, ensuring timely and personalized donor communications
Ensure all communications align with JABA’s brand guidelines and messaging standards
Assists in the research, collection of data, and offers support in grant and foundation proposals
Assist with other projects and divisional programs as assigned by the philanthropy manager or chief philanthropy and communications officer
Implement a consistent process for identifying, prioritizing and completing communication projects across the division, including email, mail, website and social media campaigns
Promote and contribute to a positive, dynamic and collaborative team culture, embracing and advancing the values and contributions of culture and inclusive excellence

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree (communications, marketing or a related field preferred)
1-3 years of experience in communication, email marketing, project management, or a related field
Strong attention to detail, accuracy and follow-through
Experience developing data-driven communication strategies and managing segmented audiences
Knowledge of digital marketing best practices and communication technologies
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel), Google Suite and CRM /email marketing platforms

Competencies

Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage diverse audiences
Ability to manipulate and understand data
Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders and maintain positive professional relationships
Internally driven and self-motivated towards excellence and innovation
Project management experience, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently
Enthusiasm for building relationships and fostering connections between JABA and its constituents

Work Environment

The employee works primarily in an office environment and in the communities served by JABA (Albemarle, Charlottesville, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Nelson). The employee will be required to provide transportation to work in varied business environments based on program needs.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms.

This is a largely sedentary role. This would require the ability to lift objects, open filing cabinets and bending or standing on a stool as necessary. Occasionally pick up, lift carry and place items weighting up to 20 pounds in and around JABA Facilities.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position working 37.5 hours, generally Monday – Friday. Evening and weekend hours will be required as scheduled and approved.

Travel

Travel is primarily local within Planning District 10. Successful candidates must have reliable transportation to reach all areas of the city of Charlottesville, and the counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson.

Required Education And Experience

Bachelor’s degree with 1 to 3 years of relevant work experience is required
Fluency in Spanish preferred bonus
Experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds

EEO Statement

JABA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Jefferson Area Board for Aging (JABA)

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Communications Specialist