Communications and Public Relations Manager Job at SOAR365 in Richmond

Communications and Public Relations Manager
Purpose
The Communications and Public Relations Manager is a full‑time position responsible for leading and integrating internal and external communications efforts across SOAR365's channels. Working closely with the Creative Manager and Content Manager, this role develops compelling content, ensures message alignment across platforms, and advances the organization's brand visibility and reputation while also keeping employees of the organization informed and engaged.

This position is also responsible for promoting and protecting SOAR365's public image through strategic public relations, media relations, and social media initiatives. The role reports directly to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

Position Summary
The Communications and Public Relations Manager partners closely with the Vice President of Marketing and Communications to develop, manage, and execute a comprehensive communications strategy that supports both organizational goals and revenue‑generating programs.

This role oversees internal and external communications planning, employee engagement communications, public relations outreach, social media strategy, and cross‑functional messaging initiatives. The ideal candidate is a highly organized, detail‑oriented communications professional with exceptional writing skills, strategic thinking capabilities, and the ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.

Duties / Responsibilities
Strategic Communications

Contribute to the development and execution of SOAR365's integrated marketing and communications strategy with a focus on best‑in‑class messaging and internal and external audience engagement.

Develop and manage multi‑channel communications plans, including editorial calendars and project timelines.

Cultivate strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and effectiveness of messaging.

Internal Communications & Employee Engagement

Lead SOAR365's internal communications strategy and employee engagement initiatives.

Create, enhance, and maintain communication channels and tools that support employee awareness, connectivity, and engagement.

Write, edit, and distribute regular employee communications, updates, and leadership messaging.

Collaborate with internal teams to ensure timely and effective communication of organizational priorities and initiatives.

External Communications & Content Development

Partner with the Content Manager to create and distribute multiple e‑newsletters tailored to diverse audiences, including donors, volunteers, participant families/caregivers, staff, and community partners.

Serve as a communications liaison for Business Solutions to support growth and visibility objectives.

Collaborate with the Creative Manager and Content Manager on major initiatives, including the annual report, collateral materials, campaigns, and brand storytelling efforts.

Plan, produce, and/or coordinate video content to support storytelling, campaigns, employee engagement, and external communications across platforms.

Public Relations & Media Relations

Develop and implement a comprehensive public relations strategy that strengthens SOAR365's reputation and community presence.

Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, op‑eds, and editorial content to secure consistent coverage in local, regional, trade, and mission‑related media outlets.

Build and maintain strong relationships with media contacts and maintain an up‑to‑date media database.

Manage media inquiries, prepare press statements, and coordinate spokesperson support.

Provide annual media training and communications guidance to members of the executive leadership team.

Maintain a repository of press coverage and ensure earned media is leveraged across all appropriate communication channels.

Social Media & Paid Media

Develop and execute a data‑driven social media strategy across all platforms.

Manage the social media intern and oversee content planning, scheduling, and performance.

Oversee paid media campaigns, social advertising, and general advertising needs in alignment with organizational priorities.

Analytics, Brand Management & Operations

Track, analyze, and report audience engagement, campaign performance, and communications effectiveness across platforms.

Monitor and update KPIs for all assigned areas of responsibility.

Ensure all communications and branded materials adhere to SOAR365's brand standards.

Partner with internal teams and external vendors on the development and distribution of branded materials and promotional items.

Effectively engage volunteers and interns to support the communications function while providing meaningful professional experiences.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Reporting Relationships
Reports directly to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

This is a full‑time position based in our Saunders Avenue headquarters; remote/flexible work is possible based on agreement with the Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

Hours & Schedule

Typical schedule: Mon‑Fri, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Limited on‑call time during crises, some event support work that might take place on weekends (very limited)

At least 3 days on site requirement

Total Rewards & Benefits

Merit increases

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

12 paid holidays

Sick and vacation leave

Immediate access to your paycheck through ZayZoon

Short‑ and long‑term disability benefits

Flexible spending accounts (FSA)

403(b) retirement plan with employer match and immediate vesting

Life insurance

Employee development and training programs

Wellness programs

Discounted tuition to South University

Equal Opportunity & Workplace Commitment
SOAR365 is an

EO/AA Employer

and welcomes applicants who are Veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those from other protected categories.

We are a

Drug‑Free Workplace .

Reasonable Accommodations
If you need reasonable accommodation when applying for a position on our website, please contact us at

(804) 358-1874

and ask for Human Resources.

Knowledge / Skills

Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills for both digital and print communications

Strong knowledge of AP Style

Demonstrated expertise in internal communications, public relations, and social media strategy

Proficiency in social media platforms, content development, and scheduling tools

Demonstrated knowledge of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and emerging technologies to enhance content development, media insights, audience targeting, and operational efficiency, with a commitment to ethical, accurate, and brand‑aligned use.

Working knowledge of video production, including planning, scripting, basic filming, and editing for use across digital and social media platforms

Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills

Strong project management and organizational abilities

High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously

Strong relationship‑building and customer service skills across diverse teams and stakeholders

Ability to work both strategically and tactically in a fast‑paced environment

Education / Experience

Bachelor's degree required in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, English, Marketing, Mass Communications, or a related field

Master's degree preferred

Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in communications, public relations, or marketing management roles

A good understanding of nonprofit operations and stakeholder engagement

Demonstrated success developing and implementing comprehensive internal and external communications strategies

Proven experience managing complex, multi‑audience communications projects

Versatile writing experience across features, marketing copy, executive communications, and public relations materials

Proven success in media relations, story pitching, and press relationship management

Experience managing brand standards and ensuring consistency across all channels

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