Media and Communications Director

Job Code:  11-2032                                                               Salary: $72,779.20 – $122,116.80

Status:  Full-time, Permanent, Exempt                                Location: Ionkwakiohkwaro:ron

Department: Center for Media and Communications        Reports To: Chief of Staff

Telecommute: Yes                                                             Fleet: Yes

Summary: The Media and Communications Director (“MCD”) is responsible for the strategic direction, leadership and supervision of the Center for Media and Communications (“CMC”). The MCD is responsible to review and manage CMC requests and liaise with SRMT colleagues to provide communication and media services to all tribal divisions and programs.

The CMC will review and suggest updates to Tribal policies and processes pertaining to the CMC. The CMC oversees website management, and reviews content disseminated from the Tribe to ensure alignment with the Tribe’s style guide, branding, and other applicable tribal policies and processes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following: 

• Engage with Tribal Divisions and Programs regarding media and communications needs.
• Work closely with the Chief of Staff and Executive Director’s Office to ensure the CMC is creating and disseminating content aligned with established protocols and policies.
• Work closely with Tribal Divisions and Departments to create sub-brands under the Tribe.
• Review media requests and refer to the appropriate responder with recommendations on media strategies, statements; speak and correspond with the media on behalf of the Tribe.
• Engage with media contacts as a Tribal representative on emerging news and releases, and oversee the distribution of publications and statements by the Tribe.
• Create and review reports on engagement plans and strategies and ensures they are consistent with the Tribe’s overall public relations/communications plan and direction.
• Implement SRMT Communications and Media policies and procedures; make suggestions for policy changes and adjust procedures as needed.
• Reinforce the Tribe’s branding in all digital and printed publications.
• Review the style guide and implement updates as needed.
• Review Kawenni:ios and E-Newsletters drafts for accuracy, form, and style prior to routing for final approval or publication.
• Guide and collaborate with the CMC team members to create appropriate and relevant Communications and Media trainings for tribal staff including but not limited to branding, social media, interview and media training, etc.
• Oversee the Akwesasne TV Manager and review/approve segments, videos, live broadcasts, podcasts, etc. follow tribal media guidelines, policies, protocols, and strategies.
• Help Tribal Monthly Meeting Chairs to facilitate (question queue, time-keep, help to enforce the rules of conduct regarding the Rules of Conduct) and oversee CMC team.
• Ensure meeting checklists are completed by meeting hosts.
• Ensure key stakeholders are informed and consulted appropriately
• Work closely with Technical Support Director regarding security of the SRMT website; review overlapping policies and provide recommendations for updates when necessary.
• Draft contract scopes and requests for proposals; manage contracts on behalf of the CMC and liaise with vendors and tribal departments to ensure applicable tribal policies and processes are met.
• Manage fiscal responsibilities of the CMC; including preparing the annual CMC budget and budget narrative. Review expenses on a regular basis.
• Exhibit a courteous and professional demeanor when dealing with the public and colleagues.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: The Media and Communications Director is responsible for the direct supervision of the Center for Media and Communications staff. The MCD shall carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Tribe’s policies and applicable laws. Supervisory responsibilities include hiring, interviewing, training employees, planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employee(s); and addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualification Requirements: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Due to the sensitive nature of information obtained, must maintain strict confidentiality at all times.

Education and/or Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Business, Science, or a related field, AND five (5) years related experience.
• Three (3) years of supervisory experience required.
• Preferred:
  • Working knowledge or higher proficiency in the Kanienkeha language and excellent knowledge of Mohawk history and culture.
  • Knowledge and skills on primary social media platforms.
  • Basic knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite products.

Other Skills and Abilities: Computer testing in the applicable skills may be a requirement during the interview process.

• Strong oral and written communication skills are required.
• Excellent computer skills and be proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
• Fiscal/Financial management experience to draft and manage a departmental budget.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to translate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license in accordance with the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Fleet Policy. 

The successful candidate must pass a drug test and background check prior to employment.