IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

Communications Manager, Ecosystems

Communications Manager
San Francisco or Washington, D.C.

With world attention focused on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. This leading green group, with programs from Boston to Beijing, has tripled in size over the past decade by focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches. You can be part of a vibrant workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives, talents and contributions, where innovation and a focus on results are a way of life.

EDF’s Ecosystems Program works with diverse partners to meet growing needs for food, water and infrastructure in ways that improve the environment and benefit the economy. The program has four goals: 1) reverse habitat loss on working lands, 2) eliminate fertilizer pollution as a major agricultural problem, 3) revitalize working rivers and their ability to provide resilient water supply, and 4) restore coastal ecosystems to protect communities from the impacts of climate change.

OVERALL FUNCTION

EDF is seeking a Communications Manager to develop and implement communications plans and media outreach strategies that further the goals of the Ecosystems Program, particularly in the area of agricultural sustainability.This position requires an understanding of and keen interest in conservation and agricultural issues. Reporting directly to the program’s Communications Director, the Communications Manager will write, edit and produce a range of communications materials while securing positive media coverage of the program’s work in top-tier, regional and ag trade outlets.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Contacts and Communication:

• Serve as the principal communications liaison with program staff working on agricultural issues, advising them on communications strategies that will influence ag policy and practices and help the program meet its objectives.
• Identify, attend external events (conferences, forums, meetings) that position program staff as thought leaders.
• Develop and maintain on-going, positive work relationships with key journalists, bloggers, editorial writers and columnists who cover agriculture and the environment.

Responsibility and Accountability:

• Develop/execute communications plans that identify key messages, target audiences, strategies and multimedia tactics, working closely with program staff and with light supervision by the Communications Director.
• Manage the program’s digital media assets, including its blog and Twitter account on agriculture and the environment. Daily duties will include managing the story list, creating the publication schedule, working with authors to draft stories, editing posts and developing original content.
• Secure favorable media coverage of the program’s work in top-tier, regional and ag trade outlets.
• Write, proofread and distribute a broad range of media materials under intense deadline pressure.
• Prepare program staff for media opportunities as needed.
• Track campaign metrics and prepare summaries on a regular basis.
• Manage consultants, mentor communications staff and interns.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills, Education, and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, with minimum of eight years media experience, preferably in a political or issue advocacy context.  Environmental media experience a plus.
• Strong knowledge of agricultural issues.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience developing strategic communications plans.
• Track record of producing national and regional media coverage. 
• Proven ability to develop, manage social media content.
• Proven ability to integrate and coordinate communications efforts across multiple internal teams and external organizations.
• A bright, self-starter capable of working independently with light supervision.
• Familiarity with Vocus media contact software desirable.
• Familiarity with AP Stylebook. 
• Estimated 25% travel.

Due to the volume of employment applications and queries received, EDF is unable to respond to each application individually. Applicants will be contacted directly if selected as a candidate.