Communications Specialist

Overview:As the Communications Specialist at Barber National Institute you will play a key role in advancing the organizations mission through storytelling donor engagement media relations and strategic communications. This position supports BNIs Advancement team by developing compelling content that highlights the impact of our programs strengthens relationships with donors and community partners and enhances internal and external awareness of the organizations Communications Specialist will collaborate with staff across the organization to identify and share meaningful stories through a variety of channels including newsletters magazines donor communications press releases social media campaigns podcasts website content and fundraising initiatives. This role is ideal for an energetic relationship-focused communicator who is passionate about mission-driven work and enjoys connecting people to a purpose through authentic is a full-time salaried exempt hybrid position. Erie PA is preferred though candidates in the Pittsburgh or Philadelphia areas will be ideal candidate will have strong writing skills nonprofit or community-based organization experience and a genuine passion for helping others understand the impact of Barber National Institutes programs and servicesWhat Youll Bring: Exceptional writing editing and storytelling skills with the ability to tailor messages for different audiences Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the confidence to interview staff donors families and community members An engaging energetic and collaborative approach to communications and stakeholder engagement Creativity and curiosity in identifying stories that showcase mission impact Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality communications materials Initiative and self-direction with the ability to work independently and proactively identify opportunities Strong communication skills with the ability to build relationships across all levels of the organization Passion for community-based organizations and mission-driven workWhat Youll Have: Bachelors degree in Communications Public Relations Journalism Marketing English or a related field 15 years of professional communications public relations marketing journalism or related experience Experience working for a nonprofit fundraising organization educational institution healthcare organization or other mission-driven organization strongly preferred Experience supporting donor stewardship advancement fundraising or community engagement initiatives preferred Experience writing across multiple formats including newsletters magazine articles donor communications press releases website content and digital communications Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite Familiarity with Canva Adobe InDesign or similar design tools preferred Experience with social media platforms content management systems and email marketing tools preferred Interest in podcast production multimedia storytelling and digital communications preferred Demonstrated ability to interview stakeholders and translate conversations into compelling written contentA Typical Day May Include: Writing and editing press releases newsletters magazine articles donor communications website content annual reports impact reports and internal communications Interviewing staff donors families program participants and community members to gather stories that highlight mission impact Developing compelling content for fundraising campaigns donor stewardship efforts annual giving initiatives and community outreach programs Supporting donor acknowledgement efforts monthly impact updates and stewardship communications Collaborating with advancement leadership to support annual giving endowment and capital campaign communications Coordinating and pitching stories to media outlets while maintaining media contact lists and relationships Assisting with podcast planning content development guest coordination and promotional efforts Supporting social media campaigns and digital storytelling initiatives that elevate awareness of BNIs mission and impact Collaborating with program teams and organizational leaders to identify communications opportunities and gather content Assisting with the development and execution of communication plans for key organizational initiatives and campaigns Producing staff communications recognition stories mission moments and internal engagement content Supporting publications such as newsletters magazines and employee communications that strengthen organizational culture and connectivity Tracking communication performance metrics and assisting with reporting and continuous improvement efforts Supporting public awareness campaigns multimedia projects community events and brand-building initiatives Attending donor events community functions organizational activities and program events to capture stories and content Building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders while serving as a positive ambassador for Barber National Institutes mission