Communications Director
Job Code: 2026:OTZ-110 Location: Kotzebue, Alaska Program: Public Communication FT/PT Status: Full Time Job Responsibilities:
Maniilaq Association

05/26

Title: Communications Director Range: 19

Program: Public Communications Status: Exempt

Housing Priority: None Covered: Yes

POSITION SUMMARY

The Communications Director (CD) develops, plans, and implements communications initiatives for Maniilaq Association that support a positive public image for the organization across key stakeholders. The CD must be timely, versatile, innovative, and creative in addressing needs. This position requires the ability to work independently and develop communications appropriate for a variety of internal and external audiences. This position reports to the President/CEO.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Works closely with Division Directors and Program Managers to lead efforts to promote Maniilaq and its services among communities, patients, employees, community leaders, partners, news media, and other key stakeholders. This includes message planning, asset development, and implementation.
2. Manages public relations activities, including media relations, community relations, content development, crisis communication, and executive communication to support build and maintain a positive organizational brand, achieve Maniilaq objectives, and advance organizational goals. Does so by maintaining a schedule and supporting leaders in developing the organization's annual report, board meeting summary reports, and newsletters, among others.
3. Oversees all marketing materials and digital tools (e.g., social media, website, etc.) to ensure accuracy of brand and proper reflection of desired messaging.
4. Ensures all upcoming events are well-advertised on the appropriate channels to inform and generate interest.
5. Develops and implements policies and procedures for the Communications Program-ensuring consistent, coordinated use of the organization's brand, including development and production of promotional and collateral materials. Ensures assets, including photography, videography, logos, and templates, are current and applied professionally across the organization.
6. Fosters positive, professional relationships with various members of the media, serving as a first-contact and liaison between outside media and the organization. Arranges media interviews.
7. Manages projects, defines and maintains scopes of work for contracts with outside communication agencies/contractors as needed (e.g., supporting the annual report, website development, special projects). Responsible for ordering of all advertising (i.e. posters, flyers, mailers) for productions.
8. Attends regular meetings of the Maniilaq Board of Directors and shares communications written updates/reports.
9. Supervises Communications staff.
10. Creates and manages the department budget-managing resources effectively and continually evaluates strategies to maximize impact.

Job Qualifications:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, Business or other relevant field preferred. Experience of 5 years directly related to the position can be considered as a substitute for college degree. Strong oral and written communication skills required. Must be able to discern the role of Communications in a variety of situations and audiences. Ability to travel, as needed. Valid Alaska driver's license and a good driving record to facilitate coverage by Maniilaq's insurance.

Other Job Information (if applicable):
DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be considered an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in this job, and the employer reserves the right to revise or change this description. This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the above essential duties and meet physical demands. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to meet those conditions.