TITLE OF POSITION: Media Relations and Storytelling Manager
DEPARTMENT: Communications
REPORTS TO: Director of Communications
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
LOCATION: Boulder, CO; Anchorage, AK; Washington, D.C. (hybrid position, must be located within commutable distance of the selected office)
The Native American Rights Fund (NARF) is a non-profit national Indian law firm representing Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals in Indian law matters of major significance. NARF’s main office is in Boulder, Colorado, with additional offices in Washington, D.C., and Anchorage, Alaska. NARF is an Equal Opportunity Employer. American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians are encouraged to apply.
SUMMARY: The Media Relations and Storytelling Manager is responsible for bringing the Native American Rights Fund’s (NARF’s) mission and work to life through bold, accessible, and culturally relevant message development and storytelling that makes issues feel personal and resonant for NARF’s audiences. This position is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with journalists and media outlets, while crafting compelling narratives that align with the organization’s mission, values, and goals. This role blends strategic communication, crisis management, and creative storytelling to shape public perception and drive engagement
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Media Relations. Manage and triage incoming media requests and coordinate with reporters and organizational spokespeople for interviews. Press Materials. Prepare all press materials, including press releases, pitches, media advisories, and written statements. Storytelling. Write compelling case updates and summaries for the website and other NARF-owned media that help readers understand why they are so necessary and important. Content Guidance. Advise on how to frame NARF’s written materials to make them compelling and accessible. Media Monitoring. Monitor for misinformation and disinformation, as well as negative press coverage, and execute crisis communications strategies to protect NARF’s reputation. Data Analytics. Track and report press coverage and refine media strategies accordingly and in alignment with NARF’s organizational goals. Media Training and Prep. Ensure consistency in messaging and prepare staff and clients to communicate about NARF’s work based on interview best practices. Prepare talking points. Departmental Liaison. Act as a departmental liaison and Communications champion for assigned Legal/ Development teams and projects. Attend team meetings and identify communications opportunities. Professional Growth and Development. Engage in professional development to ensure current, expert knowledge of media relations and effective nonprofit storytelling. Report back to the Communications Department on current best practices and trends. Team Responsibilities. Primary responsibilities will focus on the above, but other responsibilities may be assigned, as needed and in line with the Communication team’s responsibilities, such as: 1) Create compelling content for online and print publications, 2) Take and maintain photos of NARF staff, Board of Directors, clients and events, 3) Manage and create video content, 4) Update and maintain NARF’s stable of websites in HTML and WordPress, and 5) Collaborate on projects across the communications spectrum as needed, which could include copywriting, website design, media relations, crisis communications, donor relations, etc. Other duties as assigned by the Director of Communications SUPERVISORY DUTIES: None.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field, preferred. 5 years of experience in marketing, communications, or public relations, preferably at a nonprofit, legal, and/or Tribal organization. Experience with media management and outreach. SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
Ability to write clearly, concisely, and logically. Expertise in AP style and legal writing, preferred. Proven track record of consistent and compelling writing on legal, advocacy, justice, Native American, and/or similar topics. Efficient work habits such as meeting deadlines and honoring schedules. Must exercise strong judgment, sensitivity, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Work with a high degree of autonomy and independence. Excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to work cooperatively, effectively, and diplomatically with a wide range of constituencies including co-workers, attorneys, donors, vendors, NARF board of directors, and Tribal leaders. Highly organized self-starter who is comfortable in a fast-moving organization. An understanding of Indian Law and Tribal-U.S. relations, preferred. Familiarity with Native American culture and/or experience working with Tribal Nations or Indigenous Peoples, preferred. The work environment is a fast-paced, high-pressure, professional office environment. Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed. Some travel, locally and nationally, is required. Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, which include extended periods of sitting, use of computer and peripheral equipment, occasional stooping, standing or carrying, occasional lifting up to 50lbs., with assistance. The above is intended to describe the representative content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
The salary range is $105,700 to $127,300 annually. This salary range is based on five (5) to fifteen plus (15 ) years of experience in the Denver Metro market. Actual salary will depend on years of experience. Generous benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, and paid time off including vacation leave, sick leave, family leave, and medical/disability leave. Additionally, there is an employer contribution to employee 401K plan, employer paid group life insurance, accident insurance, and short-term and long-term disability insurance.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Upload the following documents 1) a cover letter, 2) complete resume, and 3) the names, contact information, and job titles of three professional references.
Examples of writing and/or communications strategic planning may be required after initial review of applications.
