Marketing & Communications Director

Application Deadline: Sunday, September 29, 2024.

JOB SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for developing and implementing marketing and communications strategies and programs for a wide variety DMEA/Elevate's programs and projects; developing the annual marketing and communications plan; and coordinating market research for well-informed communication efforts and benchmarking purposes.

The position builds and maintains a positive image for members/customers, local governments, other utilities, and the general public; and works to increase member participation in programs and initiatives. This position represents DMEA/Elevate at public, community, business, and governmental meetings and events, and requires maintaining an appropriate professional appearance.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Develops and implements coordinated and systematic annual marketing and communications plan(s) to meet the strategic objectives of DMEA/Elevate and recommends resources to achieve departmental objectives through the annual budgeting processes. Recommends annual operating and capital budgets for approval.
2. Trains subordinates to attainable levels; reviews and determines performance of subordinates; recommends wage and salary adjustments in accordance with company policies and in support of company values and objectives. Responsible for planning and implementing necessary employee training within the Communications and Marketing Department.
3. Research best practices and applies them to the marketing plan. Once approved, monitors progress and takes corrective action if required.
4. Responsible for coordinating outreach/public relations and cultivating good working relationships with, including but not limited to, local governments, Chambers of Commerce, media, and schools. Represents DMEA/Elevate by serving on various community boards or committees as needed or assigned.
5. Coordinates and/or conducts member surveys and other necessary market research and prepares and presents results. Uses results to:
   1. Make recommendations regarding targeted messaging
   2. Make recommendations regarding programs currently offered and programs that would desirable/value to members
   3. Develop effective marketing and communication plans
6. Acts as the member relations and communications liaison between DMEA/Elevate and key stakeholders on matters associated with communications and marketing. Serves as the media liaison between DMEA and all media sources as requested.
7. Provides insight into community issues that are pertinent to DMEA/Elevate's members, and the status of projects and/or situations in the department.
8. Responsible for DMEA/Elevate's formal communications, member education, advertising, public and community relations, and public event efforts.
9. Oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of the annual election process and Annual Meeting.
10. Works with the Communications and Marketing Department personnel to:
    1. Ensure that DMEA/Elevate's publications and communications efforts are consistent with strategic plans and the marketing and communication plans and goals.
    2. Manage, plan, market, and attend special events such as the annual meeting, member appreciation events, member forums, and other informational meetings for members and employees.
11. Responsible for the overall management of all Elevate communications, branding, and marketing programs and efforts.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed in this job. The description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for personnel in this position.

This position has the authority to take whatever action is deemed advisable or necessary and may initiate and carry out the action; but is required to advise superiors of the action taken when deemed necessary. Must inform superiors of non-routine situations.

Employee is responsible for the technical accuracy of work; maintaining good communications and working relationships; coordinating work with others; meeting deadlines; and adhering to company guidelines, policies, practices, and procedures.

Supervision over this position is general in nature, relying heavily upon the competency and accountability of the employee. Employee is expected to work independently on assignments. Employee is expected to keep supervisor informed of progress and potential problems, apply guidelines, and obtain approval for deviation from guidelines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Requires an in-depth knowledge of the principles and practices of communications, public relations, and marketing. To perform effectively in this position, the employee must have superior verbal and written communication, marketing, and public relations skills, in addition to speaking, writing, and social interaction at a level normally acquired through successful job experience and the completion of a college degree in marketing, communications, or a related field. Must communicate and promote technical subjects to a lay audience through various marketing avenues. Must work and relate well with DMEA/Elevate Members, employees, and the general public in a tactful and courteous demeanor. Must create and maintain a clear and positive image that reflects well on the Cooperative.

Must have strong organizational skills, the ability to handle multiple priorities, the ability to develop plans, procedures, and goals for the department, and the ability to work under stress to complete projects with accuracy and within reasonable deadlines.

This position requires skill and proficiency in using different software packages on a variety of keyboard configurations.

Understands and applies the concept of providing quality services to DMEA customers and employees and agrees to maintain a continuing commitment to superior service.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, and use of keyboard/computer; and occasional bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Requires finger dexterity, good vision and hearing, and the ability to speak. Office equipment used occasionally includes personal computers, related software, copy machines, fax machines, etc.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Regular, predictable attendance is required. This position requires employee to work a flexible schedule including some evening and weekend work. Up to 70% of the work performed is done indoors in an office setting; the remaining time may be spend attending meetings and working events either indoors or outside. Must travel within DMEA/Elevate's service territory and attend functions relevant to position. Overnight travel may be required when attending functions outside of DMEA/Elevate's service territory. Travel by company vehicle is required. Occasional travel by commercial means may be required.