Communications Manager

Northwest Human Services is a non-profit leader in providing advocacy quality healthcare and social services in Marion and Polk counties since 1970. We are a mission focused organization providing compassionate and professional medical dental psychiatry mental health and wraparound services for those in our community who need it most - uninsured individuals families the homeless and migrant workers. As a Community Health Center we value a culture of belonging diverse perspectives and life experiences. Our organization embraces innovation collaboration and work-life harmony.

COMMUNICATION MANAGER

Northwest Human Services (NWHS) is seeking a strategic and creative Communications Manager to lead and execute organization-wide communications that amplify our mission services and impact. This role is responsible for shaping and delivering clear consistent and compelling messaging that engages patients employees partners media and the broader community.

Job Status: Full-Time Exempt

Location:681 Center St. NE Salem Oregon

Reports to:Chief Operations Officer

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Communications Manager develops and implements a comprehensive communications strategy that supports organizational priorities strengthens brand awareness expands patient access and advances health equity for underserved and resilient populations. Working closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams this position manages marketing media relations digital presence and internal communications to ensure NWHSs story is told with clarity accuracy and purpose.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Communications Strategy

• Partner with the CEO and senior leadership to develop and implement a comprehensive mission-aligned communications strategy.
• Provide strategic counsel on media relations crisis communications reputation management advocacy and policy-related messaging.
• Ensure consistent compelling messaging that reflects NWHSs values services and community impact.

Marketing & Brand Management

• Create and oversee high-quality culturally responsive content across multiple formats (print digital social video).
• Ensure all communications align with NWHS branding voice and accessibility standards.
• Conduct brand audits and maintain communication and brand guidelines.
• Produce key publications such as newsletters annual reports and promotional materials.
• Coordinate branded materials and vendor-produced assets.

Digital & Social Media

• Manage and grow NWHSs digital platforms including website and social media channels.
• Monitor analytics and performance metrics to drive engagement and continuous improvement.
• Respond to online inquiries reviews and interactions in a timely and professional manner.
• Ensure website accuracy usability SEO optimization and content updates.

Media Relations & Public Affairs

• Cultivate relationships with media outlets and journalists; pitch stories and respond to media inquiries.
• Draft press releases op-eds and thought leadership content highlighting NWHS programs and impact.
• Serve as primary crisis communications support within the incident command structure.
• Prepare and train leadership and staff for media engagement as needed.

Community Engagement & Events

• Support community outreach initiatives public appearances and partnership communications.
• Assist with planning and promotion of agency-wide events health fairs fundraisers and awareness campaigns.
• Develop speeches presentations and outreach materials for leadership and staff.
• Capture photography and visual content for communications use.

Internal Communications & Recruitment Support

• Lead internal communications efforts to keep staff informed and engaged.
• Partner with HR to support recruitment and employer branding campaigns.
• Provide training to staff on communications processes brand standards and messaging.

Measurement & Reporting

• Track and report on key performance indicators related to digital engagement media coverage and community reach.
• Analyze campaign effectiveness and return on investment.
• Present regular updates and recommendations to executive leadership and the Board of Directors.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in communications public relations journalism marketing or a related field
• 57 years of progressive experience in communications marketing media relations or public affairs
• Experience managing integrated communications strategies across digital print and media platforms
• Strong writing editing and storytelling skills
• Strong understanding of communications strategies brand positioning and public/media relations.
• Experience in healthcare nonprofit or community-based organizations preferred

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS:Our Agency strives to provide a benefits program that is comprehensive and competitive within our industry.

• Healthcare insurance plans: Medical Dental Vision

• Group Life: Short-Term & Long-Term Disability 100% paid by employer
• 403(b) retirement plan with 2% of employer contribution and up to 3% employer match
• Flex Spending Account
• PTO - 10 hours a month for FT positions 40 hrs./wk. up to 20 hours monthly as your tenure grows
• 7/12 Paid Holidays a year 2 paid floating holidays for full-time positions
• Continuing Education & Training Benefits
• Employee Healthy Living Program Gym Membership & Smoking Cessation

Why Join NWHS

AtNWHSyour work matters! Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of underserved and resilient communities. Be part of a compassionate forward-thinking team that values collaboration inclusion and innovation in delivering exceptional services and community support.

TO APPLY:

To join our team please visit our websiteEmployment ()

For more information contact the HR/Recruiting Department at: 503.588.5828

All candidates who receive a written offer of employment will be required to undergo a criminal records check.

Equal Opportunity Employer We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Required Experience:

Senior Manager