POSITION DESCRIPTION: This full time position is responsible for communications planning and execution for the Episcopal Diocese of Newark and for maintaining and enhancing current and emerging technology tools for the Diocese.

The Director’s work must be guided by, and focus on articulating, the mission, vision, and strategic plan of the Diocese with the goal of communicating the mission and ministry of the Diocese to further build up the Church. 

REPORTS TO: Canon for Mission and Ministry Development

CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

STATUS: Full Time

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:     None

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

Communications

The Director will develop, evaluate, enhance and be responsible for:

• Media relations and effective communications tools/vehicles for the Diocese.

• Strong working relationships with multiple media sources.  Goal is to attract individuals to the various Diocesan portals of information rather than to just disseminate information.

• Public relations strategy, programs and tools for the Bishop, Episcopal House programs, Diocesan committees, affiliated organizations, clergy and congregations that maximizes understanding and visibility of the Diocese’s identity and mission to congregations, the wider church, and religious and secular audiences consistent with Diocesan objectives, mission and vision.

• Communication team and volunteer resources as required to meet agreed-upon communication programs, quality, branding consistency, and inclusion.

• Design, manage content and dissemination of the weekly Diocesan electronic newsletter and edit, layout and design the Voice (Diocesan newspaper- paper and electronic versions.

• New media development and implementation (e.g., blogs, Facebook, webcasts, video/new media etc.) for the Diocese and its commissions and congregations.

Technology

The Director will develop, evaluate, enhance and be responsible for:

• Diocesan website, website scope and use/purpose, including updates, links, content and file maintenance, and web host.

• Diocesan Listserv and Shelby database design, functionality, and usage.

• Network administration and security, local area computer network and WiFi/remote access, e-mail system (Microsoft Outlook), user access, system back-up, system troubleshooting and monitoring, downtime monitoring, etc.

• Hardware and software maintenance, upgrades, equipment replacement cycle, etc.

• Vendor relations and negotiations

• Identifying and implementing best practices in the technology space.

Other

• Develop the annual plan and budget -- and 3-year forecasts -- for the communications and technology areas.

• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

• Proven ability/experience to provide advice, guidance, coordination, and hands-on management in the areas of media relations and selection and use of effective means of communication, including print, electronic, and new and emerging digital media.

• Proven ability to anticipate, identify, and process sensitive and controversial issues and to react to time-sensitive events.

• Excellent verbal, written, and communication skills using American Standard English. Knowledge of Spanish helpful.

• Degree in communications or related discipline and active participation in related professional organizations.

• Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated personal initiative.

• Proven ability to work collegially and coordinate diverse communications activities and media in the context of the diversity that exists within the Diocese.

• Familiarity with the Episcopal Church and its organization/structures would be a plus.

• Proven ability/experience in website design/implementation and new media approaches/strategies/technologies.

• Proven working knowledge of technology hardware, tools and programs and maintenance of computer systems.

• Proven experience with: networking, identifying and troubleshooting PC issues; software and hardware acquisition; vendor solicitation and negotiation; long range planning; computer training; and electronic mail management.

• Hands-on knowledge of Microsoft operating systems and related software programs.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to adjust personal schedule to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings as necessary and to attend meetings at locations throughout the Diocese.

• Must have a valid driver’s license, access to transportation, and insurance to mandated state requirements to fulfill responsibilities and duties.

• Must be able to walk up three flights of steps if necessary. Moderate lifting of documents and hardware (up to 30 lbs.) is required.

• Must be able to ensure appropriate confidentiality with the personal, financial, and personnel matters which are entrusted to this office.

APPLICATIONS:

Submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample/media portfolio along with salary requirements to Communications Director Position, Episcopal Diocese of Newark, 31 Mulberry Street, Newark, NJ 07102,or cdstaff@dioceseofnewark.org. Salary is commensurate with experience and includes a benefits package. The Episcopal Diocese of Newark is an equal opportunity employer.

Applications must be received by Friday, July 3, 2009 to be considered.