Director of Communications

PLEASE READ JOB DESCRIPTION IN FULL BEFORE APPLYING.

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected]. Please no follow up emails or phone calls. Information received from qualified candidates will be reviewed. The position will remain open until it is filled.

DEPARTMENT: Communications

LOCATION: May work from home from anywhere in North Carolina with occasional need to be

in Morrisville, NC, SONC headquarters office.

REPORTS TO: President/CEO

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Oversee internal and external public education, public relations, marketing, and

communications for the organization.

PRIMARY DUTIES:

• Advise the President and key staff members on marketing, public relations, policies, and procedures to ensure maximum understanding and acceptance of Special Olympics by its various publics.
• Work with the President to craft SONC’s image to ensure relevance in the community and within the field of intellectual disabilities.
• Possess exceptional writing and presentation skills to showcase the impact of the Special Olympics movement.
• Ensure editorial quality and adherence to Special Olympics style and branding standards to ensure accuracy and consistency in all publications and written materials.
• Oversee the productions of all publications and print materials.
• Create social media content as well as oversee organizational social media strategy.
• Recommend and direct the development of and implement short- and long-term public relations plans, programs, and activities, including health and wellness and Unified Champion Schools initiatives.
• Manage volunteer and paid writers, printers, and other consultants recruited to assist SONC.
• Maintain relationships with the media and public relations executives of SONC sponsors and community organizations.
• Assist with the athlete speaker’s bureau program including training and speech writing.
• Manage ceremonies and special events including writing scripts and overall choreography of functions.
• Provide information for annual budget as requested.
• Serve as a liaison to Board and other committees as assigned by the President.
• Other duties in marketing and communications as assigned by the SONC President.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree and three to five years’ experience in communications/public relations field as well as non-profit experience is preferred; three years supervisory/managerial experience; ability to delegate effectively and

communicate openly. Ability to make decisions independently while collaborating with organizational leadership is essential. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to make presentations to groups as well as build one-on-one relationships within the community are desirable.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Required: Excellent editing skills and knowledge of language, grammar, punctuation, and style; Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills; Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines; Demonstrated knowledge of computers and system/software programs utilized by SONC.

Ability to possess/maintain valid NC driver’s license; Ability to travel as needed; Attend work regularly; Represent the Organization in a professional manner; Attend Special Olympics competitions and related functions as assigned; Night and weekend work and travel as required.

Preferred: Experience with volunteers and working with people with disabilities.

SALARY: Starting $50,000

FLSA STATUS: Exempt position

Special Olympics North Carolina, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and the needs of the organization. We are committed to equal employment opportunities for all people without regard to race, ethnicity, color, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, citizenship, national origin, veteran status or any other protected category under NC or federal laws.