US Chess Seeks Marketing/Communications Manager

Job Title: Marketing and Communications Manager
Reports To: Executive Director
FLSA: Exempt, Full Time
Location: St. Louis, Missouri based; telecommuting possible
Benefits: Full benefits package available

Overview

Responsible for planning, development, and implementation of all US Chess external communications, marketing strategies and communications, public relations activities, and internal communications. Oversees the development and implementation of support materials and services for affiliates and committees in the areas of marketing, communications, and public relations. Consults with the Communications team to coordinate the efforts of US Chess publications and marketing materials to align with mission objectives. There is a heavy emphasis on brand management and leveraging advanced technologies, including AI, to enhance communication strategies. All is done at the strategic direction of the Executive Director.

Primary Relationships

The primary working relationships are with the Executive Director and the Communications team. Outside of US Chess, the position coordinates primarily with the media and technology partners.

Major Areas of Responsibility

Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations

• Responsible for creating, implementing, and measuring the success of:
  • A comprehensive marketing, communications, and public relations program that will enhance the image of US Chess, position within the marketplace and the general public, and facilitate internal and external communications.
  • All US Chess marketing, communications, and public relations activities and materials including publications, media relations, social media, and the integration of advanced technologies, including AI-driven insights.
• Work with the Communications team to manage Social Media.
• Ensure the articulation of US Chess’s desired image and position, assure consistent communication of image and position throughout the organization, and assure communication of image and position to all constituencies, both internal and external.
• Consult with the Communications team to determine the editorial direction, design, production, and distribution of all organization publications.
• Coordinate media interest in US Chess and ensure regular contact with target media and appropriate response to media requests.
• Act as US Chess’s representative with the media.
• Coordinate the appearance of all US Chess print and electronic materials such as letterhead, use of logo, brochures, etc.
• Develop and maintain resource materials to assist US Chess affiliates and committees in the marketing, communications, and positioning of their activities.
• Provide counsel to US Chess affiliates and committees on marketing, communications, and public relations.
• Ensure that US Chess regularly conducts relevant market research, including leveraging advanced technologies for data analysis, and coordinate and oversee this activity while monitoring trends.
• Leads projects as assigned, such as cause-related marketing and special events.
• Develop and implement an integrated strategic communications plan to advance the US Chess brand identity, broaden awareness of its programs and priorities, and increase the visibility of its programs across key stakeholder audiences.
• Prepare quarterly reports for the Executive Director.
• Consult with the Communications and IT team on print communications including the annual report, marketing materials, and electronic communications including uschess.org website and new media.
• Actively engage, cultivate, and manage press relationships to ensure coverage surrounding US Chess nonprofit programs, special events, public announcements, and other projects.
• Write press releases for major US Chess announcements, including for major events and US Chess initiatives.
• Send congratulatory letters to national champions and FIDE titlists.

Planning and Budgeting

• Responsible for the achievement of marketing/communications/public relations mission, goals, and financial objectives. Ensure that evaluation systems are in place related to these goals and objectives and report progress to the Executive Director.
• Develop short- and long-term plans and budgets for the marketing/communications/public relations program and its activities, monitor progress, assure adherence, and evaluate performance.
• Recommend short- and long-term organization goals and objectives to the Executive Director.
• Develop, implement, and monitor systems and procedures necessary to the smooth operation of the marketing/communications/public relations function.
• Keep informed of developments in the fields of marketing, communications, public relations, not-for-profit management and governance, technology advancements, and use this information to help the organization operate with initiative and innovation.

Qualifications

Required:

• Demonstrated skills, knowledge, and experience in the design and execution of marketing, communications, and public relations activities.
• Strong creative, strategic, analytical, organizational, and personal sales skills.
• Experience developing and managing budgets, and hiring, training, developing, supervising, and appraising personnel.
• Demonstrated successful experience writing press releases, making presentations, and interacting with media.
• Experience overseeing the design and production of print materials and publications.
• Computer literacy in word processing, database management, and page layout.
• Commitment to working with shared leadership and in cross-functional teams.
• Strong oral and written communications skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects at a time.
• Out-of-town, overnight travel is sometimes required.
• Basic understanding of the game, culture, and literature of chess.
• Strong knowledge of English grammar.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• Long- and short-range planning skills.
• Ability to work with a wide variety of personalities.
• Maintain a professional appearance.
• Public speaking skills.

Other:

• Experience in marketing, communications, or public relations with demonstrated success, preferably in the nonprofit or association sector.
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, or public relations preferred.
• Familiarity with and interest in advanced technologies, including AI, and their application in marketing and communications is a strong plus.

This role requires a technology-forward thinking individual who can seamlessly integrate traditional marketing strategies with modern technological insights to elevate US Chess's brand and communication efforts.

To apply, submit your cover letter, resume, and the names/contact information for three professional references here.

The application deadline is August 8. 

Job posted on July 18