Vice President, Communications
Silver Spring, MD, United States
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA represents more than 235 facilities in the United States and overseas, which collectively draw more than 200 million visitors every year. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums meet the highest standards in animal care and welfare and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience.
Vice President, Communications, Association of Zoos and Aquariums
The Vice President, Communications, is responsible for the robust communications efforts of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, including publications, website, media relations, social media, and public opinion polling. The VP works with the AZA Senior Vice President, External Affairs, to set the communications direction and focus for the association.
Essential duties include:
Develop and lead AZA’s communications strategy and execute programs to deliver communications objectives throughout the organization
Develop communication strategies for delivery of association priorities and strategic promises
Manage communications team and consultants responsible for or involved in external and internal communications
Manage AZA’s brand and reputation
Research and analyze reporter coverage areas, industry trends and AZA data to develop innovative story ideas and conduct media outreach
Serve as AZA’s spokesperson
Execute earned media strategy to assure public views the organization and its members favorably
Manage media relations and maximize media opportunities
Develop internal publications such as newsletters, releases, email announcements, annual reports, online content, video content, and other materials
Oversee robust public opinion polling
Oversee website content development and website tracking
Act as AZA staff liaison to relevant AZA committees, as appropriate
Work with AZA members on communications needs
Experience Required
10 to 15 years of practical experience in public relations and strategy; agency, Congressional, and non-profit experience highly preferred
Comfortable with public speaking and communicating both verbally and in writing • Demonstrated increasing level of responsibility and management of teams
Demonstrated experience with building, growing, and leading a team
Past experience managing PR teams and clients
Experience with brand and reputation management
Proven track record in managing public relations on cross-functional teams
Able to write clear, impactful media materials and persuasive marketing copy
Attention to detail, deadline-focused and able to prioritize and execute multiple tasks
High degree of computer literacy, proficient in Microsoft Office suite, and other PR management tools
A keen enthusiasm for and demonstrable understanding of Web trends and technologies, and utilizing data analytics in strategic communications planning
Able to interact effectively with various levels of management and other departments
Strong project management skills to oversee the execution of initiatives, either independently or in conjunction with a team
Able to identify and understand association needs and market trends, and analyze data
Demonstrated skills in leadership, management, and collaboration
Must be self-directed and able to work independently
Bachelor’s degree required; major in Communications, Public Relations or Journalism is strongly preferred
Experience leading PR efforts for both public and private companies is a plus
Experience being a company spokesperson with media training is a plus
Experience in or with the zoo and aquarium community is a plus
Perks
Flexible, hybrid work environment; excellent benefits package; opportunity to work in a meaningful role at an organization that represents the gold standard in the zoo and aquarium community.
Salary
Starting at $100,400
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