Communications Specialist: Research & Writing
The Communications Specialist: Research & Writing will pitch, research, write, and revise content for The Jed Foundation (JED) that supports Enterprise Communications in: upholding the organization’s brand, mission, vision, and values; amplifying reputation; positioning our thought leadership; achieving earned media; and meaningfully engaging audiences. They will have a knack for storytelling and an established background in data-led persuasive writing.
Content will primarily consist of blog posts, feature articles, interviews, positioning statements, and newsletter content, but may periodically include digital/social/promotional copy or fundraising/donor cultivation messages in coordination with the Development Department.
Reporting to the Editorial Director, the Communications Specialist: Research & Writing will be immersed in the current mental health landscape and should be comfortable investigating and discussing a variety of sensitive subject matters related to this field. They will demonstrate an effective approach to working across departments and with external partners to gather and vet information while consistently moving projects forward. The Communications Specialist: Research & Writing will be comfortable managing their own time, providing updates on their work, taking projects forward as needed, envisioning how content will be disseminated and consumed, understanding audiences and engagement across channels, and making recommendations based on collected data, best practices, and emerging knowledge.
Key Responsibilities
- Research and write content for Enterprise Communications, including feature articles, blog posts, newsletter content, and positioning statements, as well as occasional op-eds, scripts, social media posts, emails, and as-needed content in support of Development.
- Coordinate with the research and clinical teams to craft in-depth positioning statements or rapid response pieces, with an eye to amplifying thought leadership and boosting earned media.
- Write scripts and talking points as needed, such as for donor calls and the annual gala.
- Pitch ideas for blog posts and articles that elevate org reputation and expertise, with support for why topics and timing are relevant, as well as how it will be shared, intended outcomes, stakeholder dependencies, and more.
- Curate content from, and lead interviews with, internal/external subject matter experts.
- Help identify and fulfill opportunities to amplify JED content/expertise on other platforms (including journalistic outlets, award-granting entities, social media channels, and partner websites) in coordination with PR, Strategic Partnerships, Government Advocacy, Programmatic Marketing, and other teams as necessary.
Skills Knowledge and Expertise
- Bachelor’s degree preferred
- 3+ years of professional experience in researching, crafting, and revising content related to Communications (nonprofit experience preferred)
- Self-driven and detail-oriented, with project management and time management skills
- Excellent research and proofreading skills to generate and bolster persuasive arguments
- Strong interpersonal skills to develop relationships with internal and external stakeholders
- Flexibility to work on various projects and multitask, with the mindset to reprioritize as needed to accommodate rising needs and informational updates
- Ability to effectively name and meet objectives, assess outcomes, pitch ideas, and create quality work targeting stated goals
- Passion for helping others and an interest in youth mental health and suicide prevention
- Familiarity with diversity, inclusion, and equity best practices, especially in relation to producing content that thoughtfully engages nationwide audiences