Communications Manager

Communications Manager
The Communications Manager leads public relations, media relations, and internal communications initiatives for the Oakland Zoo. This role serves as a key organizational storyteller, crafting compelling narratives about animal care, conservation efforts, and community impact. The Communications Manager builds media relationships, develops press materials, manages crisis communications, and creates content that engages diverse audiences while advancing the Oakland Zoo's mission and reputation.

Media Relations & Public Relations

Cultivate and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media contacts; write and distribute press releases, media alerts, and pitch stories to appropriate outlets

Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews with Oakland Zoo staff and leadership, and organize media events, press conferences, and behind-the-scenes tours

Monitor media coverage and maintain media relations database and clip files

Support development of PR strategies to enhance the Oakland Zoo's reputation and visibility in the community, which includes: identifying and pitching story opportunities showcasing animal welfare, conservation, education, and research, building relationships with community organizations, influencers, and partner institutions and coordinating speaking engagements and community appearances for Oakland Zoo leadership and animal care staff

Work with Director of Marketing and Communications to develop and execute PR and communications plans for special events, exhibit openings, and seasonal programs. This includes coordinating event press coverage and media attendance and creating event talking points, signage copy, and host scripts

Manage relationships with influencers, content creators, and media partners

General Communications

Manage the team’s communications calendar, which includes internal and external communications, advertising dates, partnerships, sponsorships, and events

Attend meetings with animal care and other departments and report back to the team to ensure they gain insights into zoo activities.

Crisis Communications

Support Director in developing and implementing crisis communication plans and protocols.

Content Development

Create and edit compelling content across blogs, newsletters, website copy, and scripts by developing storytelling frameworks, translating expert insights into accessible narratives, and ensuring consistency and quality across all communications produced by other departments.

Develop signage copy with Lead Graphic Designer.

Internal Communications

Develop and distribute internal communications (including employee newsletters, intranet content, and leadership messaging) to keep staff informed and engaged

Support organizational change initiatives with strategic communication planning.

Develop a comprehensive folder of talking points for staff and volunteers to access throughout the year. Additionally, formulate specific talking points tailored for staff and volunteers.

Manage digital screen content and work with Marketing and Communications team to create and implement new content

Stakeholder Communications

Support communications to key stakeholder groups including donors, members, volunteers, board members, and community partners, and manage annual report development from content gathering through publication

Perform other related duties as required and assigned.

Experience Required
Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, which must include a minimum of 3 years of communications, public relations, or journalism experience. A Bachelor’s may be considered equivalent to 3 years of relevant experience, and an Associate’s may be considered equivalent to 2 years of relevant experience.

Demonstrated experience with media relations and securing press coverage; Experience working with data collection and publishing through programs like Cision or Meltwater; Experience in writing press releases or similar forms of communications; Must be able to work a flexible schedule; occasional early morning, evening, and weekend work for events and media opportunities.

Bonus if you have: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, English, or related field; Previous journalism or newsroom experience; Crisis communications training or experience; Nonprofit, cultural institution, or conservation organization experience; Knowledge of AP Style and content management systems; Photography or video production skills; Passion for wildlife conservation and environmental education.

Benefits

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Flexible spending account

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Employee Assistance Program

Zoo Membership options

Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package including the above options.

Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd
Oakland, CA 94605
Phone: 510-632-9525

#J-18808-Ljbffr