Communications and Events Manager

Communications and Events Manager Bethesda, MD, US
Rochambeau, The French International School of Washington, DC (Rochambeau), has an opening for a full-time Communications and Events Manager. Reports to: Director of Enrollment Management and Marketing Division: Administration Classification: Full-Time Exempt

THE SCHOOL

Rochambeau, The French International School ("Rochambeau"), located in Bethesda, MD, is an independent and coeducational day school, offering a unique combination of the French curriculum and a high-quality English program to approximately 1,200 students from Preschool (2-year old) through 12th grade. Diversity is the hallmark of Rochambeau, with over 80 nationalities represented in the student body. We are dedicated to fostering a culture where diversity, equity, and inclusion remain at our core.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, and INCLUSION

Rochambeau is committed to a diverse workforce representative of our students, one that embraces cultural competency and an international community.

THE POSITION

The Communications and Events Manager (CEM) is a pivotal position within the organization tasked with leading the overall strategic direction and successful execution of our communications and event initiatives. The CEM will oversee and effectively manage all communications, including internal and external communications (digital and print), event planning, social media strategies, and website content management related to the strategic direction and positioning of the school. The CEM will support other school functions as needed when their skillset can enhance those functions. The CEM will interact with all constituents, including students, parents, faculty, staff, and the community. The CEM will be responsible for developing communications and event planning, marketing school merchandise. The MCM will manage a small team of 2 communications and events specialists

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

These examples of duties and responsibilities are intended only as examples of the various job duties. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or logical assignment to the position. Depending on the assignment, these duties may require in-person and/or virtual attendance based on the specific operational or instructional requirements.

Communications Management:

• Enhance the Rochambeau brand, create and execute a strategic communications plan targeting multiple communication channels, including email, social media, and website. Track and monitor outcomes of communication and marketing strategies. Prepare communications reports and propose improvements.
• Direct all staff engaged in communications and event activities to ensure a coherent internal and external set of messages and communications platforms. Works with the Director of EM and Communications to develop, propose, and gain approval for a reasonable departmental budget and maintains routine budget checks and balances to ensure compliance.
• Draft internal and external communications for the Executive Director and leadership team, Assist Director of EM and Communication in implementing a crisis communication plan. Draft external press releases and public remarks.
• Support development and admissions communication campaigns in collaboration with the Director of EM and Communications, including the development of print and digital communication materials (school brochures, documentation, annual report, school magazine...). Prepare communication plan for 70th anniversary of the school.
• Develop and execute an advertising plan and editorial calendar (print and online) emphasizing SEO, organic reach management (ORM), and social media in collaboration with Admissions.
• Develop website content to support the school's goals and strategies with assistance of Communications specialist. Ensure messaging is engaging, consistent, and optimized based on Search Optimization Engine (SEO).

Event Planning and Management:

• Plan and manage the school's comprehensive annual events calendar aligned with the school's strategic calendar, including pre-event planning, budget management, coordination of event logistics, and post-event reviews and reports. Propose areas for improvement. Source external consultants when applicable. Publish and promote all events. Events include, but are limited to, the Annual Gala, "Jump Week," Spring and Winter Fair, Graduation, Staff Appreciation Day, Family Picnic, "Back-to-School," and Grandparents Day.
• Anticipate and identify new opportunities, revenue streams, challenges, and emerging issues to be faced by the school and make recommendations for action.
• Foster internal collaboration through regular event coordination meetings and communications. Recruit and retain active volunteers to support all event-related activities, through recruitment and retention strategies and initiatives.
• Work with outside suppliers and vendors to help effectuate programs and events, and implement cost-saving measures, through successful tracking and cost-saving measures.
• Commitment to Rochambeau's vision, mission, values, and strategic plan.

Perform related duties consistent with the scope and intent of the position.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Five years of experience working in a communications role and at least three years of related experience in event planning, digital marketing, and a bachelor's degree in a related field, OR 5 years of related experience, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in communications and event planning and development, preferably in an independent school environment.
• Strong experience in storytelling, content creation, and production for Web, social channels, newsletters, digital marketing, and print communication. Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills, along with basic photography and video ability to capture campus stories. Well-versed in social media strategy and management.
• Knowledge of SEO and website analytics, conducting demographic and market research
• Bilingual in English and French preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee multiple projects and deliver them on time and within budget.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment and to interact with a wide range of individuals across the organization, including the public.
• Ability to lead a culture of accountability and support team member development.
• Management experience for a small team and management of operating budgets.
• Experience with Finalsite or another school website platform is highly desired; Email marketing program experience such as MailChimp, Constant Contact, or a similar platform.
• Knowledge and experience with Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and other social media and familiarity with best practices and technological trends.
• Demonstrated experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, iMovie, InDesign, Canva or Publisher Languages.

SKILLS and ABILITIES

• Demonstrated ability to create and maintain collaborative and professional relationships effectively.
• Organized, with solid project management skills, including scheduling and optimizing budgets.
• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, on multiple projects simultaneously, and under deadlines;
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently under pressure while maintaining high professionalism and diplomacy.
• Excellent administrative, interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse constituencies and personalities in an environment committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

SPECIAL NOTES

In accordance with Maryland House Bill 486, Rochambeau is required to contact all former employers to request information relating to child sexual abuse or sexual misconduct involving the applicant. If you would like additional information please visit House Bill 486 . Also, all final candidates will be asked, prior to hire, whether they have been found to have engaged in, are currently under investigation for, or left employment during an active investigation in which they were accused of sexual violence or sexual harassment. When obtaining employment reference checks, these same sexual violence or sexual harassment questions will also be asked.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Rochambeau is an equal opportunity employer and is deeply committed to serving its community, advancing access and equity, and ensuring that all individuals are welcomed and valued. All applicants are protected under Federal law from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age and genetics or any other basis protected by law. Rochambeau is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community and strongly encourages all qualified individuals to apply. For an applicant requesting assistance with the employment application process, please contact Human Resources at or .

To formally apply, please visit

For more information about Rochambeau, please visit the Rochambeau website .

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