Communications Lead

Madison, WI

Common Wealth Development is seeking a motivated, dynamic and strategic Communications Lead to join our team. This position will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy that advances the mission of Common Wealth Development. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in communications, a deep understanding of racial justice and equity, and the ability to integrate our diverse program areas into a cohesive organizational message. This is a full-time salaried position with benefits, including a generous paid leave package and health insurance. Annual salary is $65,000.00. Common Wealth offers a $2,000.00 bonus (annually) to employees who are bilingual in Spanish and English. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and regular access to an insured car.

Major Responsibilities

  • Strategic Communications: Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with Common Wealth Development’s mission and goals.
  • Content Creation: Oversee the creation of high-quality content across various platforms, including social media, newsletters, press releases, and the organization’s website.
  • Public Relations: Manage media relations and serve as the primary point of contact for press inquiries. Develop relationships with key media outlets to enhance the organization’s visibility.
  • Event planning & Coordination. 
  • Brand Management: Ensure consistency in messaging and branding across all communication channels. Develop strategies to increase brand awareness and community engagement.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with program managers to integrate communications across all program areas, highlighting the impact of our work in housing, economic development, and workforce development.
  • Fund Development Support: Collaborate with the fundraising team to develop communications that support grant writing and fundraising efforts.
  • Digital Media Management: Oversee the organization’s digital presence, including website management and social media strategies. Utilize digital tools like Canva and Adobe to create compelling visual content.
  • Evaluation: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communications strategies. Use data-driven insights to refine and improve ongoing communications efforts. Assist with the creation of reports and evaluation of program outcomes.

Desired Qualifications

  • Experience: Minimum of 3 years in a communications role, preferably within the non-profit sector. Experience in strategic communications, media relations, and content creation is essential.
  • Skills: Exceptional writing and communication skills with a strong portfolio of work. Proficiency in digital media tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe) and social media management.
  • Knowledge: Deep understanding of racial justice, equity, and community development. Familiarity with 501(c)(3) fundraising strategies is preferred.
  • Bilingual Bonus: Fluency in both Spanish and English is highly desirable. A $2,000.00 bonus is available for bilingual candidates. High level of motivation and ability to prioritize tasks and handle multiple responsibilities at once.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and professionally both verbally and in writing.
  • Proficient in word processing and database programs specifically Microsoft Office and case management software.
  • Bilingual in Spanish. 

Common Wealth Development values diverse life experience in its hiring process and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Bilingual, bicultural, and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply. We value the work of our local schools and educators, and graduates of Madison area high schools are strongly encouraged to apply. Our team is diverse in every sense of the word, but united in our linked fate, shared prosperity, and our commitment to an upstream approach to racial justice, health equity and violence prevention.

To apply, submit all required application materials to hiring@cwd.org.

Application packets must contain each of the following:

1. Letter of Interest in the position

2. Updated resume and/or CV

3. Online application

Deadline for submissions is by 5:00pm Monday, September 30th 2024. No calls, no emails except to verify receipt of application materials.