JOB DESCRIPTION

Organization: Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) Title: Director of Communications Date: October 26, 2024

Full-time or Part-time: Full-time Department: Communications

Reports To: President & CEO Employment Category: Exempt

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for all activities related to implementing the organization’s communications, messaging and branding of a rapidly growing non-profit wildlife conservation organization. Specific responsibilities include developing and implementing an overall communications strategy, serving as the main overseer of the MDF brand and message. Oversees the assignment, production and distribution of national, regional and state-specific MDF stories, news releases, e-blasts, public relations, print publications, promotional information, social media, web content, and more. Maintains a close relationship with media at local and national levels.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

· Serve as the chief communications representative of the organization, providing support in the areas of media, messaging and overall communications strategy.

· Develop the annual communications plan, budget, and the strategies, tactics and resources necessary to achieve marketing-specific, as well as organizational goals.

· Serve as part of the organization’s executive team, participating in organizational strategic planning and decision-making, as well as provide support to the CEO.

· Perform the duties of Senior Editor for the MDF magazine or other MDF publications.

· Coordinates efforts with MDF staff and outside contractors to create awareness, build membership and communicate information about the organization’s mission, goals, programs, events and stances on issues through media/PR campaigns, that include tools such as public service announcements, news releases, press kits, social media marketing videos, print publications, website and digital communications. Specific duties include:

o Work with the Chief Revenue Officer to ensure brand evolution strategy is consistent on MDF channels.

o Plan MDF’s web site annual calendar and generate or obtain content for all MDF communication platforms including website and social media.

o Senior Editor for MDF’s member publications, oversee contract managing editor to ensure alignment with MDF’s brand and messaging.

o Coordinate with MDF staff and contracted communications specialists (graphic designers, photographers, etc.) to produce MDF print materials, videos, photography, and other needs.

o Understands the MDF’s mission and promotes the MDF to media, members and the public.

o Develops and implements a social media strategy to grow engagement and viewership of MDF content.

o Monitors, tracks and provides reports of traffic and metrics across all media platforms.

o Assist field staff with various Public Relations efforts.

o Travel to various events and functions throughout the year, including MDF projects and outreach events, Western Hunting and Conservation Expo, and professional conferences and events.

o Work with media to develop story ideas that promote the MDF.

o Must understand the importance of deadlines and working in a timely manner.

o All other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

· Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or related field and 5 or more years of experience in the profession.

· Previous experience in communications, involving all forms of media (publications, television, social media, video, etc.)

· Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.

· Knowledgeable in developing and managing budgets.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office software, including Word and Excel, as well as Adobe Creative Suite.

· Firm knowledge of AP style.

· Attention to detail, and ability to multi-task and consistently meet deadlines required.

· Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

· Ability to understand issues pertaining to wildlife and habitat conservation, hunting, and the impacts of these on society, and relate these concepts to the public.

· Experience in writing about and promoting hunting, conservation, and outdoor issues.

· Have an understanding and respect for well-regulated sport hunting

· Knowledgeable in developing and managing budgets.

· Experience communicating with western audiences.

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS

· Must be able to hang banners, lift MDF promotional items and other packages/boxes weighing up to 25 lbs.

· Time in an outdoor setting will be required in various climates/temperatures and weather conditions.

· Must be able to sit, stand and bend for long periods of time.

LOCATION

· MDF national headquarters in Clearfield, Utah is required.

All job descriptions must be approved by Human Resources. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $110,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Writing skills: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Clearfield, UT 84015 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Clearfield, UT 84015: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person