Duties
**Due to the high amount of applicants we are not accepting any further resumes at this time for this position. We very much appreciate the interest and are humbled by the response.**
The Communications Manager oversees the Zoo’s public relations functions and is responsible for carrying out a comprehensive public relations plan that supports strategic marketing and promotional initiatives. In addition to being the key point-of-contact with the media, this position strongly assists in creating and writing for Zoo publications. Additionally, this position supports organization-wide marketing and promotion initiatives designed to drive attendance and increase participation in programs and special events. Through execution of these responsibilities, the Communications Manager is responsible for assisting the Marketing & Communications Director in managing the Zoo’s brand to external and internal audiences.
Other Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute public relations strategies and campaigns to promote and increase awareness of the Philadelphia Zoo by:
- Creating and implementing yearly publicity plan;
- Writing press releases on mission-centric, special interest, and attendance driving stories; follow up with media contacts;
- Selecting publicity photos and slides as well as coordinating publicity shots;
- Generating media-related communications.
- Identify key media opportunities, develop story concepts, and market them to appropriate regional and national media outlets.
- Assist journalists, photographers and television crews with interviews, background information, photo materials, guided tours and access to the Zoo.
- Train and prepare the Philadelphia Zoo staff for media appearances.
- Oversee the development and maintenance of media, electronic and tourist business databases.
- Coordinate and execute press conferences and media events to promote Zoo exhibits, seasonal attractions, public events, education programs, conservation projects and other communications projects as required.
- Communicate the Zoo’s comprehensive seasonal calendar listings to media and tourist bureaus.
- Represent the Zoo through professional affiliations and networking that relates to media and public relations.
- Perform additional duties and responsibilities as directed.
Requirements
- Degree in Communications or related field.
- At least five years of related media experience in a business or cultural institution comparable in size and complexity of the Zoo.
- At least five years of crisis communications experience.
- Polished communications and presentation skills; persuasive and articulate writer and presenter; ability to think quickly and anticipate and respond to challenging situations.
- Experience in developing and executing creative media events.
- Established relationships with the regional media.
- Demonstrated planning abilities; flexible and versatile.
- Ability to work with and without direction as a part of a team.
- Able to build and sustain effective relationships and build confidence and rapport with media and business contacts.
- All applicants are subject to a criminal background check, Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance and FBI Fingerprinting.
Availability
Personal flexibility to meet the needs of the media; able to work on weekends, holidays, and evenings as required. On call 24/7.
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All applications received by human resources will receive an acknowledgement.
However, only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted directly.