Visual Communications Manager

Organization Overview
Since 1981 CHRIS 180 has been dedicated to healing and recovery for children, youth, adults and families. Through a trauma informed family of services CHRIS 180 offers: counseling for the community at large; school based mental health counseling; homes for abused, neglected and troubled foster children with emotional and behavioral problems who are in state custody; supportive housing for single and parenting young people, ages 17 – 24 who are homeless or aging out of foster care; in-home services and community programs that strengthen families; outreach, drop-in and community housing for older teens, young adults and young adult families; a community center; an adoption program for children in foster care; and, training for professionals, human service workers, educators, volunteers, individuals who work within the community, other organizations and children, youth and families. The goal for all services is to unlock the potential that resides in each person to help them become self sufficient, contributing adults who have the skills to navigate life’s challenges.

Position Description:

The Visual Communications Manager is responsible for conceptualizing, creating, and implementing design solutions that have a high visual impact, attract new and diverse donor audiences and communicate CHRIS 180 messages effectively. Under the guidance of the Director of Marketing & Communications, this person manages all creative elements related to visual, experiential, web and digital communication; works on a wide range of projects that include but are not limited to: promotions, advertisements, marketing and fundraising collateral, invitations, web graphics, digital communications, signage, way finding and other organizational graphics. This position is also responsible for website updates and working with outside vendors on website. The Visual Communications Manager oversees and sources photography, and develops and maintains photo archives and will serve, as needed as a photographer for the organization. This role will also work with the Director of Marketing & Communications and other team members on implementing and executing daily and weekly social media strategies.

A wide degree of professional skill & creativity is expected. It is critical that this individual is a self-starter, problem-solver, strong writer and creative thinker. This person must be able to work in a fast-paced, complex, multi-faceted environment both independently and in a team environment with consistent feedback from various departments. The ability to multi-task yet still meet critical deadlines is a must.

The Visual Communications Manager primary objective is to increase awareness and understanding of what CHRIS 180 does to several key target audiences: donors, clients we serve and the community in general.

Key areas of responsibility

• Designs, conceptualizes and creates graphic and digital materials, from concept to production; coordinates scheduling, processing and handling of collateral/artwork.
• Works with Development department to manage donor email lists, email calendar and campaigns; design donor emails and other communications as needed.
• Manages workflow of deliverables; assists Director of Marketing & Communications to establish and maintain procedures for project requests
• Aids in developing and maintaining CHRIS 180’s graphics and style guide.
• Develops and maintains relationships with printing vendors, negotiates rates and manages bids and contracts.
• Develops templates and graphic formats; participates in efforts to improve quality of website and other electronic publications; updates, maintains and publishes the website content and graphics; ensures that all design elements, templates and finished solutions work within a variety of browser types.
• Manages all social media platforms along with the Director of Marketing and Communications, with the goal of driving more traffic to our digital assets and increasing awareness, donations, and client referrals.
• Analyze web and social media trends through use of Google Analytics and other software.

QUALIFICATIONS/COMPETENCIES

Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree with emphasis on Graphic Design or Art is required
• Minimum 2-3 years experience in graphic and web design work with project management experience. Nonprofit experience preferred but not mandatory
• Complete understanding of design to print and web process; broad knowledge of art anddesign fundamentals including brand principals and guidelines as expressed across many different media
• Proficient in digital and web design with 1 to 2 years multimedia and interactive content design experience; advanced demonstration of experience in graphic design; website content management experience
• Proficiency in design applications; high level of proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator,Photoshop and InDesign); basic knowledge of web content management systems (Wordpress preferred); additional knowledge of PC; basic knowledge of HTML and CSS
• High level of initiative, problem-solving and project management capabilities; highly organized with meticulous attention to detail
• Excellent verbal, written, presentation and organizational skills
• Superior project management skills and a keen ability to meet project deadlines often requiring multi-tasking
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects and priorities
• Other duties as assigned

TRAVEL

Up to 20% (for events and vendor visits as needed)

SCHEDULE

This position typically works Monday – Friday, 8a – 5p. Some weekends are required for event coverage.

Reports to: Director, Marketing & Communications

Employment Status: Full time, Exempt