Communications Specialist, Illinois Justice Project

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Illinois Justice Project (ILJP) is a continuation of the Justice and Violence Group at Metropolis Strategies and engages in legal justice reform efforts that promote policies that will make our communities safe and reduce recidivism among youth Cand adults. Established in 2014 as a legacy project of Metropolis Strategies, the non-profit ILJP is a supporting organization of the Chicago Community Trust and an affiliate of The Commercial Club of Chicago.

The Communications Specialist works with the Director of Communications to produce compelling, high-quality content that support Illinois Justice Project goals, and aligns with its brand, voice, and mission. This role is responsible for managing content creation and distribution across multiple platforms, including social media, the ILJP website, email newsletters, and partner communications. The Communications Specialist maintains a content calendar, produces and manages the News Summary newsletter, and project-manages communications-related convenings and gatherings. A successful candidate will be a strong storyteller with experience creating narrative-driven content in a variety of formats to engage new audiences, deepen understanding of complex criminal legal system reform issues, and inspire action.

Essential Functions

• Manage and execute content creation efforts that expand ILJP's storytelling opportunities and elevate human-centered narratives that shift public understanding of the policies ILJP advances.
• Support earned media efforts by engaging with Illinois reporters and contributing to contextual, accurate, and nuanced coverage of the criminal legal system.
• Project-manage the development and distribution of written stories, videos, podcasts, and other multimedia content, identifying appropriate platforms and overseeing publication, promotion, and sharing with internal and external stakeholders.
• Lead or support the planning and execution of communications-related convenings, seminars, and gatherings.
• Track, analyze, and report on content performance to inform strategy and improve engagement.
  
  

Principle Responsibilities

• Maintain and manage ILJP social media accounts and the organizational content calendar.
• Evaluate the current News Summary newsletter and propose redesign or content improvements.
• Create, edit, and distribute the News Summary on a regular basis.
• Write, edit, proofread, and ensure quality and consistency across all communications materials.
• Collaborate with the Director of Communications and ILJP staff to brainstorm and develop new content ideas.
• Maintain and refresh photo and video libraries for internal and external use.
• Monitor content analytics and prepare regular performance reports.
• Maintain and update media contact databases for reporters covering the Illinois criminal legal system.
• Take a lead role in executing seminars and convenings related to communications and support all ILJP events as needed.
• Explore use of infographics and other visual assets to support storytelling and campaigns.
  
  

Required Experience

Position Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience in communications, content creation, or a related role; nonprofit or social impact experience preferred.
• Knowledge of, or interest in, criminal legal system reform, public policy, or philanthropy strongly desired.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with keen attention to detail.
• Writes clearly and concisely on deadline
• Strong research skills and the ability to find and distill information fast
• Strong storytelling skills and an appreciation for high-quality, audience-centered content.
• Outstanding project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a highly team-oriented environment and build productive relationships with colleagues, partners, and community stakeholders.
• Comfort representing ILJP with external partners, media, and collaborators.
• Ability to work with data, spreadsheets, and analytics to inform communications strategy.
• Proficiency with content creation and management tools, including Adobe Creative Suite and Canva.
• Experience using Salesforce, email marketing tools, and data to support digital media campaigns preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Outlook, content management systems, and major social media platforms.
• Self-motivated and adaptive, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions, justify recommendations, and communicate transparently with team members.
  
  

Keyword: Communications Specialist, Illinois Justice Project