Vice President, Communications

MJK Connections is partnering with Sunward on a highly impactful Vice President, Communications role!

Summary:

Designs and executes the communications efforts for internal and external audiences. Responsible for developing and delivering compelling content in support of the Credit Unions communications efforts. Supervises a high performing team that provides the full range of communication services, including brand development and management, public and media relations, internal communications, digital/online initiatives, traditional print projects, sales promotions and collateral, social media, corporate website and intranet, content creation, copywriting, and special events. Leads the continuous development of Sunward Federal Credit Unions brand and voice to build awareness, uniqueness, relevance, and reputation among target consumers.

Essential Functions:

• Work closely with other members of leadership to develop, implement, and oversee an integrated communications strategy that conveys the corporate brand and successfully reinforces the Credit Unions business objectives for both internal and external audiences through multiple delivery channels.
• Work with internal stakeholders to plan, create and launch creative marketing campaigns, press releases and public service announcements that resonate with current and potential members.
• Utilize multiple communications technology tools to develop and implement an external communications strategy that promotes corporate initiatives and corporate business development.
• Oversee distribution of clear, concise, and engaging communications across internal and external audiences that brings the Credit Unions unique culture, mission, and values to life through various formats and channels.
• Lead analysis across all marketing channels to measure overall performance of activities and use this data to develop actionable plans.
• Identify and successfully distribute content in new channels leveraging emerging technology and techniques to communicate with prioritized audiences.
• Identify, implement, report, and manage KPI metrics reflective of a mature communications program aligned with organizational strategy and plans.
• Maintain knowledge of emerging technology, trends, developments, and best practices in communications strategies and align those developments with the needs of the Credit Union.
• Actively seek out, build, and manage multi-channel platforms of communication and engagement initiatives ensuring Sunward Federal Credit Union stays at the forefront of the communication needs of the members and employees; drive corporate presence and expands footprint on digital channels.
• Lead the communications team to develop both corporate and member-facing PR programs; manage outside relationship vendors who contribute to the marketing and communications functions.
• Manage the Credit Unions public communications and media relations programs.
• Remain current on laws and regulations that affect marketing, ensuring marketing pieces, disclosures, and website are technically and legally compliant.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with cross-functional partners from all other departments.
• Prepare, implement, and supervise the budget for the department that is consistent with the overall budget and strategic plan to maximize cost-effective operations and programs.

Job Requirements

Experience

• Minimum of 12 years of progressively responsible experience managing a range of external and internal communications and marketing functions such as brand management, digital marketing, creative services, public relations, and engagement, preferably within a financial institution.
• Minimum of 6 years experience in a leadership role that required good decision-making, problem-solving, influencing others, and facilitation skills.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a supervisory role.
• Demonstrated leadership skills in communications and digital platforms, as well as strategic value proposition development and creative execution.
• Proven track record of delivering impactful external and internal communications, including message development, communications planning, segmentation, and measurement.
• Clear track record of excellence in developing and executing brand communications and leading a corporate public relations function.
• Significant experience in positively handling high-profile communications issues, demonstrating sound judgment and persuasive counseling to senior management.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful public relations campaigns.
• Experienced and savvy in social media practices and tools; knowledgeable in emerging social media.
• Strong project management experience.
• Experience in crisis communications preferred.

Education

• BA/BS or equivalent experience in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Economics, Business, or related field.
• Leadership Competencies
• Outcome & Results
• Own your deliverables and KPIs-meet or exceed them by giving outcomes and overcoming obstacles.
• Commitments
• Treat W3s as promises – execute early, follow through consistently and renegotiate transparently when priorities shift. Reliability builds trust.
• Business Maturity
• Know your business – manage financials, operations and experiences with discipline and in full alignment with Sunwards key results.
• Growth Mindset
• Be a learner now a knower – stay curious, ask questions, adapt quickly and embrace daily learning.
• Preparation and Presence
• Respect others by being early prepared and fully tuned in – never distracted or multitasking.
• Feedback
• Fuel growth by inviting, giving and acting on feedback – always candid, respectful and forward-focused.
• Talent & Culture
• Build culture through people – hire top talent, coach relentlessly, celebrate wins and manage performance though our Culture of Accountability. Model the culture and values of Sunward.
• Experience and Craftsmanship
• Set the bar at the best – deliver experiences that stand apart and never compromise on quality.
• Knowledge
• Possesses exceptional insight and knowledge of emerging trends in external and internal communications trends and technologies.
• Advanced proficiency with computer applications including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.Skills/Abilities

• Strong record of nurturing positive relationships both internally and externally.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with senior leadership and interface effectively and positively with clients and stakeholders.
• Able to effectively manage differences in opinions and culture.
• Able to build, motivate and develop a team.
• Effective team player, confident but humble, with honed listening skills and ability to work calmly in a fast-faced and dynamic environment.
• Able to train, mentor and influence project leaders and team members toward more effective project management and change management approaches.
• Possesses strong leadership skills and serves as a positive role model to others.
• Possesses highly developed and creative written and oral communication skills.
• Proven strong and effective presentation skills with the ability to interface with and influence partners at all levels of the organization.
• Able to supervise and train employees, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Possesses a strong business acumen, with the proven ability to identify opportunities, quickly understand complex problems, and define improvements.
• Experienced in handling transformational shifts within an organization.
• Able to make sound decisions quickly and efficiently. Exhibits capacity to embrace change and quickly adapt to new situations, changes in direction, and altering priorities. Able to drive from uncertainty to actionable plans.
• Exhibits high levels of accuracy, adaptability, sound judgment and initiative.
• Possesses excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to effectively prioritize and execute multiple concurrent priorities and projects.
• Demonstrates flexibility and ability to work during non-business hours as necessary.
• Models the desired culture and values of Sunward Federal Credit Union.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

Ability to sit for prolonged periods and lift up to 20 pounds.