Marketing & Communications Specialist (Part-Time)

Department: Development

Reports to: Director of Development

FLSA Status: Not Covered

Communities In Schools of Houston (CIS) exists because students across Greater Houston face a myriad of barriers to success, whether it’s because they face mental health issues or are at-risk of dropping out of school. Our mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

Job Summary:

The Part-Time Marketing & Communications Specialist is responsible for crafting and conveying powerful stories of CIS, along with other strategic communications efforts.

Duties/Responsibilities:

1.       Lead CIS of Houston's Marketing/Communications Efforts

  • Develop and create internal and external digital and printed marketing communications materials, including event-related publications, e-newsletters, Annual Report, blogs and corresponding graphics, print and digital materials to prospective and existing donors, marketing collaterals, social media content, and more.

  • Execute multi-channel annual giving campaigns across direct mail, email, and digital platforms, including social media and CIS website.

  • Create and maintain content and graphics for the CIS website and assist with maintenance.

  • Craft messaging and correspondence on behalf of CIS Leadership for marketing and outreach purposes.

  • Identify and assist in the creation of a wide range of engaging content, including stories from educators, CIS leadership, CIS Student Support Specialists, students and their families, generous donors and other CIS supporters.

  • Coordinate the creation of agency marketing materials in collaboration with external communications partners including graphic design and printing firms engaged by CIS.

  • Identify multimedia opportunities and manage relationship with consultant public relations firm to inform CIS media engagement strategy and presence.

  • Coordinate with the Development Department and CIS Marketing & Communications Board Committee, and collaborate with CIS’ public relations firm to identify, develop and execute internal/external communications strategies, including thought leadership opportunities.

  • Interact with CIS Student Support Specialists, Leadership, Board members, partner agencies, school district officials, and other CIS affiliates regarding communications efforts.

  • Oversee marketing strategy as aligned with organizational Strategic Plan and goals of the Marketing & Communications Board Committee.

  • Manage the creation of annual campus reports, to include biannual supervision of temporary assistant.

2. Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Valid Texas Driver License

  • Exceptional writing and research capabilities

  • Strong interpersonal, donor engagement, and team-collaboration skills

  • Ability to prioritize multiple projects/tasks with minimal supervision, work under deadlines, and adapt to changing communications needs

  • Detail-oriented and well-organized with persistent follow-up

  • Demonstrated capacity to continuously develop and apply the latest knowledge and skills related to marketing & communications, learn new applications, and provide new ideas for improving donor outreach & communications efforts

  • Prior experience/competency using the following platforms (or similar applications) for business: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Google Analytics, Canva, Animoto, Photoshop and Hootsuite

  • Professional appearance and manner at all times while at work

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing/Communications, Business, Social Sciences or other related fields.

  • Minimum three years’ experience coordinating communications / marketing for an organization.

  • This position requires a highly self-motivated, resourceful, creative, and relationship-driven individual with experience and a passion for engaging donors and internal & external audiences on a daily basis, with the ultimate goal of furthering CIS of Houston’s mission to support students.

Work Environment:

  • Hybrid - Remote and In-Office

  • Travel within the Greater Houston area is required

Compensation and Benefits:

Base Pay: $31/hour

Other Pay: Business Mileage Reimbursement

Benefits:    1% CIS 403(b) Retirement Plan Contribution and Up to 5% CIS 403(b) Retirement

Plan Contribution Match