Communications Manager - California Legal Services; Fresno

Communications Manager - Central California Legal Services (Fresno)

The Communications Manager develops, manages, and implements CCLS’s communication and outreach strategy in partnership with the Executive Director. The successful candidate will use their creativity and experience in media relations, digital/print design, communications, and nonprofit marketing to elevate CCLS’s presence within and beyond the Central Valley. This role will also collaborate closely with program teams to develop promotional outreach content and materials across various platforms, ensuring alignment with CCLS’s mission, vision and strategic direction.

Central California Legal Services (CCLS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was founded in 1966 for the purpose of providing free civil legal services to low-income individuals. CCLS core counties include Fresno, Kings, Mariposa, Merced, Tulare, and Tuolumne. CCLS’s health work also extends to San Luis Obispo, Monterey, San Benito, and Stanislaus counties. In Madera County, CCLS provides limited services to seniors and on health issues.

CCLS has offices in Fresno, Merced, and Visalia, and satellite offices in Mendota and Los Banos. With nearly one hundred (100) employees, CCLS’s work includes direct services that meet our clients’ immediate needs, education, and advocacy.

Duties

Media Relations & Messaging

• Draft and distribute press releases, coordinate media outreach and pitch stories to local and statewide news journalists.
• Draft op-eds, talking points and messaging for CCLS causes.
• Serve as resource and coach to staff and board in all media interviews.
• Ensure rapid and thoughtful response to emerging news that may affect the organization.
• Build and cultivate relationships with local and statewide journalists.

Digital Communications & Content Development

• Manage and grow social media platforms by generating regular content.
• Partner with staff to craft inspirational content that compels current supporters and attracts new ones.
• Use social media tools to measure impact and reach.

Media Campaign Support

• Collaborate with the Leadership Team to develop strategic communications that support policy changes, utilizing targeted strategic messaging and promotions.
• Directly manage vendors for graphic design and other related creative projects.

Ensure Brand Consistency

• Develop and brand guidelines to ensure cohesiveness and consistency both internally and externally.
• Manage all communications materials and create resources for staff to ensure adherence to guidelines.
• Serve as point of contact for various community partners and connect them with program leaders and services as necessary.
• Build and cultivate relationships with community partners and local organizations.

Events Management and Support

• Facilitate the promotion of all CCLS events including in-person and/or online
• Manage outreach and create promotional materials
• As directed by the Executive Director, attend relevant events and serve as a spokesperson for CCLS.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in Communications or related field, preferred.
• 3+ years of professional level experience in nonprofit advocacy, communications, public relations or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in growing social media audiences and securing media coverage.
• Experience in media relations.
• Proven ability to translate complex issues into intelligible messages for public consumption.
• Experience developing and implementing creative campaigns.
• Commitment to legal aid and legal access.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Salary Range: $85,895 - $98,021 per year