SUMMARY: This position emphasizes support and execution of communication initiatives, focusing on project management, creative content development, writing, editing, and social media presence for the conference. Functions as writer and project coordinator conference publications including the Pacific Union Recorder, Conference Connections, and email newsletter. Responsible for general communication to inquiries from social media, email, and phone calls which includes interacting frequently with church leaders, institution administrators, and the public. Assists the department with clerical, as well as other communication projects. This position works closely with the Communications & Media Director and is responsible to facilitate effective and creative communication with pastors, churches, schools, and constituents. The ideal candidate is highly organized, exhibits technical literacy, and thrives in a fast-paced environment with a keen ability to problem-solve. A demonstrated ability to work with culturally and ethnically diverse groups is essential, as is a warm, collaborative spirit and strong people skills. Knowledge in photography, graphic design, web design, and content management is required. This position contains room for scale based on experience and tenure. Some weekend work may be required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Coordinate SECC internal and external communication including preparation of news releases, feature articles, and arrangements for interviews between conference officers and the press.
2. Compose news stories, articles, letters, statements, and other official conference documents as requested by Director.
3. Performs regular proof reading of stories, newsletters, statements, and general correspondence.
4. Assist in writing press releases, website content, social media posts, newsletters, and other communication materials.
5. Select, compose, and copy edit SECC news articles for publication in the Pacific Union Recorder each month and Conference Connections (6x a year, published in the Recorder).
6. Oversee the workflow and assignment of stories with freelance writers to ensure publication deadlines are met.
7. Compile content for publication outlets and follows journalism & research ethics regarding accuracy, attention to detail, and integrity through original work.
8. Build and maintain relationships with journalists, responding to media inquiries, and pitch story ideas to generate positive press coverage.
9. Serve as liaison between conference departments, ministries, churches and schools to assist in event promotion, and storytelling.
10. Assist with taking photos (including conference employee ID photos), event reporting, and photo coverage of conference events as requested by Director.
11. Collaborate with the organization's social media presence, posting content and interacting with users on social media platforms.
12. Create well-designed graphics for stationary, print, and digital content.
13. Maintain strict confidentiality and integrity of Southeastern California Conference public relations, branding guidelines, and speaks with a unified voice with conference leadership.
14. Assists and leads out with research on various projects assigned to the communication department.
15. Must be able to maintain multiple projects, make informed decisions, assume responsibility, and deliver on tight deadlines.
16. Manages the clerical duties in the communication department (filing, mailing, copying, answering phones, etc.).
17. Assists the public in receiving and publishing information such as obituary submissions for the Pacific Union Recorder.
18. Maintains and performs regular updates to the conference website including stories, news, event listings, documents, and various information.
19. Assist in coordination of events, initiatives, press conferences, and other appearances for leadership and the department.
20. Miscellaneous duties as assigned by the Communications & Media Director.
JOB SPECIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.
Education and/or Experience
A college degree (Bachelor's degree) is required with an emphasis in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, Digital Media or a related field and some prior office work desired. Work experience of a minimum of five years in the area of communication or a related field can substitute for degree. Also working knowledge of the conference institution and the working of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is desired.
Language/Communication Skills
Ability to communicate clear, effectively, politely, and professionally is required, this may be through writing, reading, editing, analyzing or interpreting information. Can converse with fellow employees, church members, and the general public with professionalism and courtesy consistent with the values of the conference. Ability to write articles, news stories, newsletters, statements, web material, advertisements, and other official documents.
Mathematical
Basic math skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and percentages are required. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. Basic understanding of budgeting and effective financial management necessary.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. Ability to develop strategies to achieve departmental and organizational goals. Has an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the conference. Is able to analyze the competition and is able to identify external and internal threats and opportunities. Able to adapt strategy to changing conditions.
Missionary License/Credential
Must be eligible for a missionary license or credential. Must have a driver's license and good driving record.
Other Skills & Abilities
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Cost Consciousness - works within approved budget. Develops and implements cost saving measures and conserves organizational resources. Stewards all resources with integrity.
Diversity - shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences. Educates others on the value of diversity. Promotes a harassment-free environment and builds a diverse workforce. Must possess skills in working with culturally and ethnically diverse groups.
Technical Skills - Computer literacy is required in programs such as Microsoft platforms, Adobe Suite, WordPress and other programs. A basic understanding of Content Managements Systems and a willingness to learn and adapt to new web platforms is required. Also needs to be current with Social Media sites and technology.
Interpersonal Skills-Must have personal management skills and self-motivation to work toward goals. Group and interpersonal effectiveness, cooperativeness and teamwork, and ability to negotiate disagreements. Demonstrates an open attitude towards alternate opinions and changing environments. Must be organized and detailed. Listening and Communication skills. Must possess adaptability and creative responses to setbacks and obstacles. Takes initiative in communicating needs with a positive attitude and collaborative spirit. Must have personal management, time management skills, and motivation to work toward goals. Regular in-office attendance is required.
Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed. Must work collaboratively and takes initiative to communicate clearly.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job. This position will need to regularly sit as well as stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance, stoop, kneel or crawl. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle or feel; to reach with arms and be able to talk and hear. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
Work is regularly performed indoors with moderate noise level. Occasionally the work is performed outdoor with exposure to the elements.
* Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. *
