Communications Strategist
St. Louis, MO
Missouri Foundation
Date Posted: 2/19/2025
ROLE
Reporting to the Vice President of Strategic Communications, the Communications Strategist is responsible for effectively promoting the Foundation, its brand, people, work, vision for a healthier Missouri, and mission. This role will create and implement communications strategies for the Foundation’s enduring priorities, including Strategic Relationships, Health Policy and Advocacy, and Learning and Research, with the understanding that these focus areas may change.
The strategist will carry out daily communications activities, advise, and engage MFH staff on communications practices. Additionally, the strategist will be able to align program goals and communications practices in order to reach various audiences. The ideal candidate understands the role communications plays in addressing complex health issues and will have experience using communications as a tool to leverage change and promote understanding.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Execute communications work that supports the Foundation’s priorities
Develop content to be disseminated via multiple platforms including the Foundation’s blog, website, social media, and email
Generate content and creative concepts for publications, videos, and communication campaigns
Work collaboratively with Foundation teams to identify consistent communications opportunities for complex health data, press releases, op-eds, and compelling storytelling presented in a clear manner
Identify the best communications needs for a specific audience
Build and maintain relationships with journalists, identifying press opportunities, arranging news conferences, and reporter education and briefings; coordinate media requests with the appropriate Foundation or field expert to respond to reporter inquiries in a timely manner
Pitch and place stories in media outlets
Identify and promote impact and other organizational achievements
Provide training, coaching, and support for Foundation teams in creating quality communications
Review, frame, and edit internal documents, presentations, and materials as needed
Adhere to the Foundation’s core and staff values
REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor’s degree in one of the following areas: communications, journalism, English, public relations, or related field strongly preferred
A cover letter is required for consideration for this role
A minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a communications role with responsibility of producing high-quality communications concepts and deliverables that drive change
Demonstrated ability to understand the relationship of communications to the evolution of public issues
Ability to gather information and write quickly, accurately, and effectively on deadline, while focusing on framing and audience engagement
Excellent presentation, storytelling, verbal, editing, and written communication skills, and the ability to assertively yet effectively work with a diverse group of internal and external people
Strong creative skills and standards
Superior project management and time management skills, with strict attention to quality and detail. Excellent critical thinking skills and the ability to exercise good judgment and solve problems quickly and effectively
Strong knowledge and understanding of current trends in digital and social media
Proven willingness to be accountable for quality of work
Self-starter and an energetic, positive team player who builds successful relationships and values working cross-functionally with teams
Passion for Missouri’s diverse communities and interest in improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities
Professional manner and appearance
Generally proficient with Windows and competent in Microsoft Office
Writing samples must be submitted upon request
OTHER DUTIES
Participates in team activities and completes diverse assignments in support of team goals
Performs general Foundation support activities and carries out special projects as required
Adheres to the Foundation’s core and staff values
SALARY RANGE
The starting salary range for this position is $63,860 to $71,379 per year.
