Vice President, Communications and Branding

The Vice President (VP) of Communications & Brand will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for developing and executing comprehensive communication strategies that elevate the organization’s brand, enhance its reputation, and drive engagement with key stakeholders.

This role requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in brand management, media relations, digital marketing, and crisis communication as well as  a strong understanding of digital marketing, social media strategies, and data analytics. The SVP will work closely with the CEO, CFO, Board of Directors, and other executive and senior leaders to ensure that all communications align with the organization's mission, values, and strategic goals.

Essential Job Functions

Strategic Leadership:

• Formulate and execute an extensive communications and branding strategy that aligns with and promotes the organization's mission and objectives.
• Act as a key strategic advisor to the CEO and the executive team, guiding decisions on communications, brand positioning, and public relations.
• Direct and develop a dynamic communications team, cultivating an environment of creativity, teamwork, and ongoing enhancement with an ability to operate as an effective tactical as well as strategic thinker.

Brand Management

• Oversee the development and maintenance of a consistent and compelling brand identity across all platforms and materials.
• Ensure the organization’s brand is effectively communicated through marketing, digital channels, events, and public relations.
• Lead brand awareness and reputation-building initiatives, ensuring alignment with the organization's values and objectives.

Public Relations & Media Strategy

• Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, journalists, and influencers to enhance the organization’s visibility and reputation.
• Oversee the creation and dissemination of press releases, op-eds, and other media content.
• Act as the primary spokesperson for the organization, handling media inquiries and managing crisis communications when necessary.

Digital & Social Media Strategy

• Develop and execute a comprehensive digital strategy that includes social media, website management, email marketing, and content creation.
• Analyze and report on digital engagement metrics, using data to inform and adjust strategies.
• Ensure the organization’s digital presence is innovative, engaging, and reflective of its mission and values.

Internal Communications

• Oversee the development and implementation of internal communications strategies to ensure alignment and engagement among staff, volunteers, and other key stakeholders.
• Foster a strong organizational culture through effective communication of the non-profit’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

Crisis Communication:

• Develop and maintain a crisis communication plan, ensuring the organization is prepared to respond effectively to any potential crises.
• Lead crisis communication efforts, working closely with the CEO and legal team to manage sensitive issues and protect the organization’s reputation.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, community leaders, and government officials.
• Oversee the creation of communication materials for fundraising campaigns, events, and other stakeholder engagement activities.

Special Skills and Knowledge
In addition to the above-listed skills, the ideal candidate for this position will also have:

• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational abilities, complemented by exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to make decisions in a changing environment and anticipate future needs.
• Sensitivity to cultural and personal differences in age, ethnicity, and lifestyle.
• Ability to speak Spanish or another language a plus.

Education and Certification

This position requires a robust educational background and extensive professional experience that equips them to lead a creative team effectively:

• Bachelor’s Degree; the minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a closely related field is required.
• Professional Experience: At least 10 years of progressive experience in communications, public relations, and/or brand management is essential, preferably within a nonprofit setting. This experience should demonstrate a proven track record of successful campaign management, team leadership, and innovative communication strategies and at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing a communications or branding team, with responsibilities including strategic planning, team development, and high-level decision-making.
• Advanced Degree: While not mandatory An advanced degree such as a Master’s Degree in Communications, Business Administration with a specialization in Marketing, or Public Relations is highly recommended.
• Professional Certifications: Relevant accredited certifications in Public Relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America, or Certified Marketing Management Professional (CMMP) are advantageous. These certifications indicate a continued commitment to professional development and adherence to industry best practices.

Technical Skills

Advanced Digital Communication Tools

• Expertise in utilizing sophisticated email marketing platforms such as Mailchimp or Constant Contact to orchestrate comprehensive outreach and engagement campaigns.
• Proficient in managing multiple social media profiles via platforms such as Hootsuite or Buffer, capable of scheduling posts, analyzing engagement data, and optimizing social media strategies.

Content Creation and Digital Publishing

• Management level understanding of Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop for image editing, InDesign for layout design, and Illustrator for vector graphics, to produce professional-grade branding materials.
• Experienced with Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress or others for streamlined content scheduling, editing, and publishing, ensuring consistent message alignment across digital channels.
• Professional understanding of graphics tools such as Canva for quick creation of visually appealing designs for social media, presentations, and other marketing materials, leveraging its user-friendly interface and extensive template library.

Data Analytics and Insights

• Advanced proficiency in Google Analytics for tracking website traffic, user behavior, and campaign effectiveness to inform data-driven decisions.
• Skilled in the use of CRM platforms such as Salesforce or similar platforms to analyze stakeholder interactions and optimize communication strategies based on comprehensive data insights.

Multimedia Production

• Knowledgeable in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro for producing impactful promotional and informational videos.
• Proficient with audio production tools like Audacity or Adobe Audition, capable of producing and editing high-quality audio content for podcasts or other media.

Microsoft Office Suite and Collaboration Tools

• Expert level proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for creating high-impact presentations, detailed reports, strategic communication materials, data collection and financial modeling.
• Skilled in collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and Outlook for efficient internal communications, meeting coordination, and professional correspondence.

Project and Team Management Software

• Proficient in using project management tools such as Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Project to effectively manage timelines, resources, and team activities, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within scope.

Work Environment & Schedule

This is a hybrid position:

• In-Person Requirements: Must be available for executive meetings, attend GMHC events, and represent the agency at conferences and conventions as needed by specific programs and departmental requirements.
• Remote Work Flexibility: Able to perform duties remotely, with availability for in-office interactions when necessary.
• Mandatory Participation: Participation in the annual AIDS Walk New York event is mandatory for all GMHC staff.

Physical Demands

While carrying out the responsibilities of this role:

• Sitting: The position predominantly involves sitting for extended periods, which is typical for office environments.
• Communication: Regular participation in conversations is necessary. This involves both speaking and actively listening to colleagues, stakeholders, and external partners during meetings, presentations, and one-on-one discussions.
• Note-Taking: The ability to listen attentively and take detailed notes during meetings and other communicative sessions is crucial.

Successful candidates will welcome the opportunity to work in a racially and gender-diverse environment and to contribute to a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Working at GMHC requires a demonstrated awareness of and commitment to the concerns of the breadth of the communities that we serve.

GMHC is committed to fostering an inclusive, racially, and gender-diverse workplace and seeks candidates dedicated to promoting equity and social justice within our community.