Manager of Public Affairs and Communications

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead our Public Affairs and Internal Communications efforts. This role is pivotal in shaping our organization's narrative, fostering relationships with media outlets, and ensuring cohesive internal communication strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic communication plans to enhance the organization's public image.
• Build and maintain relationships with local and national media outlets.
• Act as the primary point of contact for press inquiries, managing media relations and ensuring accurate representation of the organization.
• Prepare and distribute press releases, media kits, and other public relations materials.
• Monitor and analyze media coverage to identify opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Handle crisis communication, including developing response strategies to protect the organization's reputation.
• Proactively identify and celebrate organizational achievements while managing sensitive stories to align with the organization's goals.
• Lead the internal communications program to ensure employees are informed, engaged, and aligned with the organization's mission and values.
• Supervise and mentor an internal communications team member, fostering their professional growth.
• Develop and implement internal communication strategies that promote transparency and collaboration.
• Create and manage content for internal channels, including newsletters, intranet, and announcements.
• Organize and facilitate employee engagement activities, town halls, and recognition programs.
• Collaborate with leadership and HR to align internal messaging with organizational objectives.

Requirements

Education and Work Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in public affairs, media relations, or internal communications.

Skills and Abilities

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Experience in crisis communication and stakeholder engagement.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and analytics.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships across diverse groups.

Benefits

Competitive pay and medical/dental/vision and other benefits that provide flexibility, choice, and support to our employees when they need it most. We understand that home and family are essential pieces of your life, and our benefits are designed to support you both at work and at home.

Pay

Details about pay are not specified in the job posting.

Schedule

The role is a hybrid position, which may be based in one of our offices in Little Rock, Fort Smith, or Fayetteville, Arkansas.