Overview: The Communications Director will plan, organize, create, and implement effective communications messages and strategies for the St Austin Catholic Parish & School, supporting staff and ministries in advancing their objectives and engaging internal community members as well as the wider community. While the primary audiences are parishioners, school parents and students as well as staff, the Director needs to consider other audiences that would access parish information at the local and national level as well as the Paulist Fathers. The Communications Director reports to the Parish Administrator and School Principal.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in Communications, Public Relations or similar preferred but not required with at least 2-3 years of experience in public and media relations. More direct experience required if no Bachelor degree
• Proficient working knowledge and ability to use various software including but not limited to Google Workspace, Constant Contact, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Microsoft Office, CANVA and website management preferably with eCatholic.
• Strong writing, editorial, and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of Roman Catholic teachings and parish structure.
• Ability to work independently at a fast pace with attention to detail.
• Must be able to pass a background check before being hired as well as become certified in Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) within 60 days of hire.
• May be required to travel to off-site locations.

Duties and Responsibilities

Communications

• Execute all communication and marketing objectives of the parish (church and school), overseen by the Parish Administrator
• Design and production of all parish and school communications, including design, content generation and editing of websites, social media accounts, bulletins, e-newsletters, annual reports, seasonal mailings, advertising, signage, etc.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive social media plan for the parish and the school.
• Maintain good working relationships and effective communications between parish and school staff, ministries, community, and the public as needed.
• Participate in Diocesan and Paulist Fathers meetings regarding communications.
• Coordinate, write, and design all parish and school communications regarding upcoming parish and school events.
• Ensure that all media and messaging are produced and delivered with consistent tone, look, and voice-reflective of the parish and school mission and brand.
• Unify and align communications across the parish and school.
• Work collaboratively with parish and school staff and leadership to execute creative marketing, stewardship and other advancement campaigns.
• Arrange for photography for St. Austin events and activities and manage the digital asset library.

Administration

• Participate in parish staff meetings as directed.
• Work in collaboration with staff, teachers, ministries, and parent leaders
• Maintain confidential communication on parish matters related to parishioner and staff information
• Other duties as assigned by the Pastor, Parish Administrator and School Principal.

Standard Work Hours & Availability:

• 40 hours per week, flexible with occasional weekends, evenings and some holidays as necessary.