Communications Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits :

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Job Title : Manager, Communications

FLSA Status : Full Time, Exempt

Reports to : Director of Partnerships and Engagement

Work Location : DC Central Kitchen, 2121 First Street SW, Suite 140, Washington, DC 20024

Compensation Range : $70,000-$74,263

Dreaming Out Loud, Inc.

Dreaming Out Louds mission is to create economic opportunities for the DC metro regions marginalized communities through building a healthy, equitable food system. We are rebuilding urban, community-based food systems through cooperative social enterprise : increasing access to healthy food, improving community health, supporting entrepreneurs and cooperatives from low-income communities, and creating opportunities for at-risk residents to earn sustainable, family-supporting wages and build wealth. We believe that all communities deserve equal access to fresh, healthy food choices, but that achieving this requires moving beyond the access paradigm to a focus on community self-determination and food sovereignty. Utilizing the food system as a catalyst, we are working to create an integrated pipeline to jobs, economic opportunity, and community wealth-building for our most marginalized communities.

Position Summary

The Communications Manager at Dreaming Out Loud Inc. (DOL) drives our mission through compelling storytelling and strategic outreach. They are the architect of DOLs public voice, crafting and disseminating high-quality content that not only engages a diverse audience but also significantly amplifies brand recognition and impact. The Communications Manager is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy across all channels, transforming complex ideas into accessible and inspiring narratives. The Communications Manager leverages their talents to make a tangible difference in our community by attracting vital support and fostering a deeper connection with those we serve.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications & Brand Leadership

Develop and implement a holistic communications strategy that powerfully articulates DOL's mission, values, and vision, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms.

Proactively identify and cultivate compelling storytelling opportunities in collaboration with internal teams, crafting narratives that elevate DOL's standing as a local and national leader in food justice and racial equity.

Champion brand consistency across all external communications, marketing materials, and digital touchpoints to reinforce DOL's identity and credibility.

Manage and optimize a comprehensive communications database, including media contacts, distribution lists, and critical audience engagement metrics to inform strategic decisions.

Maintain and execute a dynamic communications calendar, aligning efforts with DOLs key events, seasonal programming, advocacy campaigns, and major initiatives.

Manage any current communications contracts (web design, social media content, etc.)

Media Relations & Public Affairs

Forge and nurture strong, lasting relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets, proactively seeking opportunities to increase visibility and secure impactful media coverage.

Develop, write, and distribute high-impact press releases, compelling op-eds, comprehensive media kits, and precise talking points that effectively advance DOLs campaigns, policy efforts, and strategic partnerships.

Capture and disseminate powerful human-interest stories from our community (e.g., farmers, elders, families, partners), effectively demonstrating DOLs profound impact and fostering deeper engagement with supporters.

Digital Engagement & Content Creation

Oversee and strategically manage all aspects of content and user experience across DOL's digital platforms, including the website, blog, social media channels, and newsletters, driving engagement and reach.

Ensure the currency and accuracy of all public-facing materials, maintaining a high standard of information integrity and professionalism.

Produce high-quality, engaging written and visual content tailored for a diverse range of audiences, including community members, influential civic leaders, and high-profile donors.

Event Communications & Support

Provide comprehensive communications support for key DOL events, encompassing community gatherings, policy roundtables, and seasonal activations at the farm and future grocery store.

Develop essential communication materials for events, such as talking points for speakers, engaging digital invitations, and impactful post-event recaps to maximize their reach and impact.

The duties and responsibilities contained herein are representative of the essential functions of this position. The dynamic nature of our work requires flexibility, and our collaborative environment necessitates cross-functional support. Employees are expected to adapt to our ever-evolving organizational and community needs and perform other duties as assigned to contribute to Dreaming Out Louds success.

Required Skills and Experience

3+ years of relevant communications and marketing experience, preferably in a non-profit organization

Professional-level familiarity with social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Experience with graphic design and photo editing software

Proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft Office

Proven experience in public speaking

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to cultivate and maintain relationships with all stakeholders

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills including detailed editing and proofreading

Excellent presentation skills

Experience working with people across an organization at all levels

Proven track record of working independently to achieve key results, while keeping colleagues abreast of critical issues

Strong research skills

Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills

Commitment to the advancement of marginalized communities in the DC metropolitan region

Benefits

Generous Paid Time Off

Health and Dental Insurance

Monthly Cell Phone Stipend

Flexible Spending Accounts for Transit, Parking, and Healthcare

Transit Assistance through SmartBenefits

401(k) match up to 5%

100% Employer Paid Life Insurance

100% Employer Paid Short and Long-Term Disability

Equal Employment Opportunity

Dreaming Out Loud Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Dreaming Out Loud complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the organization has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, and transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.