VP, MARKETING and COMMUNICATIONS

Reports to: Chief Administrative Officer

OVERVIEW:

The VP, Marketing and Communications (VPMC) leads a professional team to plan, implement and advance the corporate messaging and brand management strategy and implementation across the following business units.

• DDP, the core entity responsible for stewarding the Downtown including safety and security strategies in partnership with local law enforcement agencies to support a Downtown that is clean, safe and welcoming. As well, DDP serves as a fiduciary for various organizations and convenes stakeholders to ensure that the voices steering growth and development are balanced and representative of the community.

• Parks and Public Spaces (which manages and programs more than 2,000 events each year in Downtown Detroit parks and public spaces);

• Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone, more commonly known as the BIZ, which manages the Downtown Ambassador workforce, data program, small business engagement, landscaping and holiday lighting within DDP’s service areas as well as other neighborhood CDO’s through partnership agreements.

The VPMC is a sleeves-up hands-on role charged with identifying key messages and implementing a media and public relations plan that effectively positions the organization locally and nationally and drives awareness of the important role we play in the Downtown.

As well, the VPMC develops a strong narrative and maintains a high standard of communication in all formats (online, print, web) on behalf of the organization and looks to continually elevate DDP’s approach to messaging, communications, and outreach. This position determines best practices and works with each business unit to demonstrate success through strong metrics, authentic audience engagement, and increased community and visitor involvement in DDP-led programming. Reporting to this position are the Director of Communication and Director of Marketing. The VPMC also works with third-party marketing and communications contractors in partnership with the communications and marketing team members.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Job descriptions do not typically include every duty or responsibility that a person in the role may be asked to perform. The following is a thoughtful list based on current needs.

1. Strategy development: Create and support the implementation of the DDP corporate marketing/communications plan for DDP. Ensure integration of the marketing, communications, public relations, creative strategy and execution, and brand management functions. Work closely with other DDP directors to track metrics and ROI across all DDP communication efforts and improve on strategies as needed.

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2. DDP media: Create and execute an annual corporate media plan that builds the DDP brand and grows the DDP thought leadership team in their respective communities (geography, industry,

professional, etc.). The media strategy cultivates local, regional, and national media partners to share the DDP story.

3. Strategic communications: Develop key messaging for the DDP team (staff and Board) including talking points, Q&A, FAQ documents. Provide media/interview preparation and coaching.

4. Crisis Communications: Manage and inform DDP’s crisis communication strategy in collaboration with the Chief Safety and Security Officer and Parks team. Responsibility to lead internal and external communications in the event of a corporate crisis or emergency relative to staff, public spaces, or other operations.

5. Content development: Writing, editing and proofreading internal/external corporate communications including CEO and DDP newsletter, press releases, media advisories and video and integrated media.

6. Overall brand and messaging management: Oversee brand positioning and stewardship for the entire organization to ensure brand integrity and build brand awareness. This includes collaboration with third-party communication vendors to support and ensure a consistent brand and voice.

7. Branding and positioning: Create and oversee the strategy for narrative and storytelling efforts of DDP. Support CEO as the spokesperson for DDP. Ensure articulation of DDP’s desired image and position; consistent communication of image and position throughout the organization; and effective communication of image and position to all constituencies, both internal and external.

8. DDP Advocacy: Support relationships to position DDP as a leading organization for business collaboration and advocacy in Downtown Detroit.

9. Thought leadership: Proactively seek, secure and support thought leadership opportunities for the organization.

10. Event strategy: Working with the leadership team, identify content and execute messaging and communications strategy for DDP signature events (including Annual meeting, Detroit Aglow, and Community Forum meetings).

11. Budget management: Support the development and management of the DDP corporate marketing and communications annual budget.

12. Processes and procedures: Develop standard reporting procedures from each business unit to maintain corporate standards for brand management and organizational communications. Manage the overall tracking and evaluation of related metrics. Recommend and utilize technology solutions where applicable.

13. Metrics: Monitor and analyze marketing and communications performance metrics.

14. Strategic Planning / Balanced Scorecard: Participate, as a member of each business unit/team, in the strategic planning and balanced scorecard initiatives throughout the year.

15. Supervision and Team Leadership: Oversee the workflow and work assignments of the marketing and communications team to ensure effective collaboration. Cultivate a high-performing team. Mentor and develop staff using a supportive and collaborative approach on a consistent basis. Conduct performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.

QUALIFICATIONS AND CORE COMPETENCIES:

● 10+ years marketing, communication and corporate event experience (nonprofit experience preferred)

● Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing, advertising, business

administration or a related field and/or master’s degree in related field.

● 5+ years leading and managing a professional staff required as well as collaborating and spearheading effective contractor relationships. Willingness and ability to roll up sleeves and be hands-on without micromanaging staff.

● Willingness to demonstrate commitment to DDP’s mission, vision, and core values.

● Demonstrated success in a management role with budget management responsibilities.

● Ability to effectively communicate with staff, partners, clients, board members, and corporate stakeholders.

● Ability to use tact and professionalism including in times of extreme stress.

● Demonstrated skills, knowledge and experience in the development and management of marketing, communications and public relations plans and activities.

● Knowledge and understanding of Downtown Detroit and its business and community demographics.

● Superior interpersonal and communication skills (written & verbal). Extensive successful writing and editing experience.

● Polished and professional presentation of self, ideas and communications.

● Excellent organizational, time management, multi-tasking and problem-solving skills.

● Detail-oriented with high quality standards.

● Ability to provide strong and clear artistic direction.

● Strong team player who operates well in a dynamic, all hands-on deck environment.

Downtown Detroit Partnership offers a comprehensive list of benefits for eligible employees including paid time off and holidays in addition to:

● Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Coverage, Health Savings Account

● 401k (with employer match of any contribution up to 6 percent of total salary)

● Long Term Disability and Life Insurance

● Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare FSA, Dependent Care, Commuter Transportation)

● Worksite Voluntary Benefits such as: Accident Insurance, Critical Illness, MetLaw and Life Lock, Holiday Savings Account, 529 College Savings Account, My Pet Protection Insurance, Fifth Third Bank Membership Benefit Banking Program, Working Advantage - access to exclusive savings on movie tickets, theme parks, hotels, Broadway, and Vegas shows, and shopping partners.

At Downtown Detroit Partnership, we are intentional about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Downtown Detroit Partnership, an equal opportunity employer, does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, age, disability, height, weight, military status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Downtown Detroit Partnership jobs

Vice President, Marketing and Communications