New Job: Maternity Cover for PR & Communications Executive

We are currently seeking Maternity Cover for our PR & Communications Executive. For more on this post and how to apply, please see information below:

Title of post:               PR & Communications Executive

Organisation:             Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA)

Reporting to:              Chief Executive

Contract:                    Fixed Term Maternity Contract (minimum 10 months)

Location

This is an office based role. However, due to Covid-19 the team is working remotely. Once restrictions are lifted this role will revert to being an office based position (with some flexibility).

The office is based in Unit 3, Ground Floor, Marshalsea Court, 22/23 Merchants Quay, D08 N8VC.

ROLE OVERVIEW

To manage and deliver on the IMNDA’s public relations and communications strategy across both fundraising and services, as well as develop and maintain strong relationships with multiple internal and external stakeholders. This will include providing support to various audiences to ensure consistency of messaging, design and brand.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Champion the vision and values of the Association, ensuring continuous brand awareness across all key media including digital, print and broadcast media.
• Work closely with the CEO, National Development Manager, staff and Board to promote the IMNDA in a positive and impactful manner both internally and externally.
• Work closely with the National Development Manager, the Services Manager and the Information Support Officer to generate and produce all literature to support the work of both the fundraising department and the services department.
• Support the National Development Manager in the development and delivery of both national and regional fundraising plans and activities and the roll-out of communications for same.
• Work with the fundraising team to compile timely e-zines and campaign updates.
• Manage and execute digital fundraising & communications campaigns and optimisation projects from beginning to end.
• Develop strategies for email, search, display, paid social and other digital marketing channels.
• Identify potential new and innovative digital activities to recruit new supporters and revenue streams.
• Participate in the continual development, monitoring, review, and evaluation of fundraising communications, advertisement campaigns, PR events and activities.
• Research and pitch stories to local and national media outlets.
• Liaise with clients, families and the IMNDA nursing team in order to highlight the impact of the Association and services it provides.
• Research and identify new PR and marketing opportunities – both traditional and digital to enhance IMNDA’s national reach.

• Ensure all website content is accurate, appropriate and up to date and liaise with all third party digital suppliers regarding same.
• Maintain and monitor all social media platforms and ensure all content is in line with the IMNDA’s digital strategy.
• Manage the annual PR & Communications budget and liaise with the Financial Accountant on a regular basis.
• Compile and produce the Association’s Annual Report and bi-annual newsletter.
• Create and deliver a communications plan to increase awareness of the services the Association provides amongst clients, carers, families and healthcare professionals.
• Advocate on behalf of the MND community and establish and develop relationships with key decision makers and policy makers both nationally and internally.
• Monitor breakthroughs in MND and look for opportunities to join the conversation externally.
• Handle all media queries relating to the Association and prepare response statements for review by the CEO.
• Prepare all media releases and editorial on MND issues for internal and external communications.
• Plan and manage time in a cost effective manner, ensuring that all efforts are focused on activities which maximize the potential for building brand awareness and increasing funds.
• Ensure that accurate and up to date media records are maintained and accessible.
• Undertake any relevant work as may be required by the CEO.

General

• Be fully conversant with all PR, communications and fundraising regulations as they relate to IMNDA activities and ensure that the IMNDA complies with all relevant legislation.
• Up to date knowledge of GDPR regulations.
• Keep up-to-date with the current issues and developments in the PR, Communications and Fundraising arena. Establish memberships and liaise with local bodies, agencies and other associations to ensure industry best practice. Undertake training as necessary.
• Provide occasional support in the event that another team member in the department has an urgent need.
• This job description is not exhaustive. It merely acts as a guide and may be amended to meet the changing requirements of the Association at any time after discussion with the post holder.

Essential Experience:

• Third Level qualification in PR, Communications, Media or Marketing
• Minimum of 3 years’ post qualification experience
• Experience of setting and working to budgets, deadlines, targets and plans
• Advanced IT and digital skills
• Proven project management experience

Desirable

• Proven experience of event planning and management
• Previous experience working in a not for profit environment
• Experience of CRM systems

Person Specification:

• Excellent communication and presentation skills – both written and verbal
• Strong empathy and compassion
• Self-starter with initiative and drive and an ability to work independently, think creatively, and identify opportunities
• Experience and strong interest in new media
• Diplomatic and tactful with the ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of people
• A team player with an open and flexible attitude
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects and demands
• Flexibility to work evening and weekend hours on occasion in a fast paced, dynamic environment

Contract

This is a fixed term maternity contract (minimum 10 months)

Benefits include: 25 days’ annual leave (pro rata), 37 hr working week.

If you would like to be considered for this position, please forward a cover letter stating your suitability, along with your CV to Maeve Leahy at mleahy@imnda.ie

Closing date for applications Monday 22nd March 2021. Only those selected for interview will be contacted.

Salary negotiable depending on experience