Communications Director

The Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) is the first grassroots, nonprofit organization dedicated exclusively to fighting global warming in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Our mission is to build and mobilize a powerful grassroots movement in this unique region that surrounds our nation's capital to call for state, national and international policies that will put us on a path to climate stability.

Position Overview:

CCAN seeks an experienced professional to serve as Communications Director. Communications is woven into every aspect of the organization and the director is responsible for coordinating and executing all public communications. S/he works directly with the Executive Director and campaign staff to effectively communicate CCAN's work to the media, 80,000 supporters, and funders.

S/he is also responsible for developing effective messages and strategies for CCAN's ongoing campaigns. The director manages CCAN's multi-faceted communications tools including the website, blog, email list, videos, live-stream capabilities, podcast, and social networks.

Responsibilities:

• Develop effective communications programs for CCAN's clean-energy campaigns in conjunction with the Executive Director and senior staff.
• Direct and manage campaign staff in writing of email alerts, press releases, action alerts, e-newsletters and other external communications.
• Run weekly communications meeting with campaign staff.
• Oversee website to ensure message is consistent with overall campaign objectives, and manage the organization's online presence.
• Manage the communications budget.
• Execute other writing and research assignments as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Qualifications:

• At least 2 years of professional communications employment; Experience working for a nonprofit advocacy group or political organization is preferred.
• Excellent writing, editing and oral communications skills required with a close attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively, function well under pressure, and meet deadlines.
• Previous management experience is preferred.
• Strong computer skills required (Word, Outlook, Excel); Advanced computer skills including knowledge of Democracy in Action, html code, and Photoshop are strongly preferred.
• Strong personal commitment to curbing climate change.

Compensation: Salary range between $35,000 and $45,000, depending on experience. CCAN offers a competitive benefits package, including health and dental insurance and four weeks of paid vacation.

The Communications Director position is based in Takoma Park, MD, just outside of Washington, DC

To Apply:

We will be accepting applications on a rolling basis with a start date of on or before July 15, 2010. Please email your resume, cover letter and a writing sample (preferably in the form of an e-alert or press release) to Anne Havemann.