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External Relations Associate

ThinkTennessee, Nashville, Tennessee, United States, 37247

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Overview Think Tennessee is a nonpartisan, results-oriented think tank based in Nashville, TN. We use research, engagement, and advocacy to help build a state where all Tennesseans are civically engaged and economically secure. At our core, we believe Tennessee thrives when voters have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives and when workers earn enough to support their families.

Think Tennessee’s office is in downtown Nashville. We provide a flexible, hybrid work environment, with at least two days of in-person work per week.

Job Description Think Tennessee seeks an External Relations Associate to provide communications, event, and fundraising support for our dynamic team. The External Relations Associate will report to the Director of Strategy and Development and will strengthen our operations. As part of a growing team, this position will also support organizational administrative needs. An ideal candidate will have professional office experience, bring a keen sense of detail, and have an openness to learn and support the organization’s processes.

Key Responsibilities

Communications: Provide graphic design assistance for reports, presentations, and other materials, working closely with the Communications Manager and external contractors.

Communications: Draft communications as assigned, including email newsletters, press releases, and event invitations.

Communications: Create, edit, and schedule content for Think Tennessee’s social media platforms to grow our online reach and engagement.

Communications: Update website with recent news clips, press releases, and new research products.

Communications: Maintain media contact database for local, regional, and national outlets.

Events

Develop and maintain internal and external calendar of events and a standard events process.

Coordinate event logistics, including venue selection, catering, registration, communication, technology, materials development, and follow-up.

Conduct prospect research on foundation and individual donors.

Maintain data entry for the organization’s CRM, including donations, grants administration, and stakeholder information and communications.

Process donations and prepare acknowledgement letters.

Assist in expense and revenue budget management.

Administration

Manage internal staff meetings and communications, e.g., scheduling team meetings and events.

Provide scheduling and calendar assistance to the President, as needed.

Perform office administration tasks as needed, e.g. mailings and/or other duties as assigned.

Schedule and oversee logistics for board meetings, including event space coordination, agenda dissemination, and A/V needs.

Support the onboarding processes of new staff members.

Monitor the organization’s general email account and direct communications to appropriate staff.

Assist with other duties as needed.

Qualifications Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree is required.

2+ years relevant work experience required.

Experience working with social media and scheduling platforms, e.g., Hootsuite, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, preferred.

Experience with CRM databases preferred.

Proficiency in Canva or other graphic design software preferred.

Proficiency in Excel and/or basic budgeting preferred.

Skills

Extremely strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills.

Ability to ideate and bring graphic design concepts to life.

Ability to organize, maintain, and coordinate project files.

Effective manager of long checklist to execute event coordination.

Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well as part of a team.

Characteristics

Passion for and demonstrated commitment to Think Tennessee’s mission.

Strong commitment to racial equity and a deep understanding of how to communicate effectively about race and equity issues.

Self-motivated with a strong work ethic.

Rigorous attention to detail and the highest standards for excellence in execution.

Ability to manage work streams on various project teams and balance multiple priorities.

Ability to adapt to changing priorities and duties within the organization’s overall mission.

Compensation Competitive salary ($50,000-$60,000) commensurate with experience. We offer comprehensive benefits, including medical/dental/vision insurance, retirement, paid family leave, transportation benefits, and generous paid time off, including sick leave, vacation days, and paid holidays.

Commitment to a Diverse Workplace Think Tennessee is an equal-opportunity employer. As an organization focused on moving Tennessee forward, we understand that diverse teams are stronger, more innovative, and more productive. Interested candidates who do not meet all listed criteria should still apply, as our organizational structure focuses on providing opportunities for professional growth.

How to Apply Applicants should submit their resume and cover letter through our online application form by February 16, 2026. You can find the online application form on our website at thinktennessee.org/jobs-internships

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