Manager of Communications

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Manager of Communications leads all activities related to managing the Chamber’s brand reputation and public image. As the primary spokesperson for the organization, this role sets the tone for all internal and external messaging and provides guidance for internal departments in their communication with numerous audiences. Additionally, the Manager of Communications is responsible for developing an integrated communications strategy aligned with organizational goals that strengthens brand affinity and perception; fosters innovation; and increases stakeholder investment in both the Chamber and region. Other responsibilities include media relations and coaching, crisis management, drafting and finalizing press releases, op-eds and talking points, and scriptwriting.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Serve as the Chamber’s primary spokesperson, fielding daily media calls and inquiries with timely, accurate, and appropriate responses.
Maintain media lists and build relationships with local, regional, and national outlets.
Disseminate research data, economic development news, and policy positions to targeted media.
Develop comprehensive PR strategies for Chamber events and initiatives—including interviews, story pitches, press releases, media alerts, op eds, and media events.
Cultivate and manage the relationship with the Chamber’s public relations agency, including overseeing project workflow and key messaging.
Oversee a media monitoring system to track newsworthy items, local/regional/state trends, and emerging issues. Provide timely updates to the Executive team and SVP of Marketing and Communications regarding critical shifts and emerging issues. Includes creating and disseminating week day media clips summary.
Collaborate with Chamber affiliates and regional partners to enhance coordinated multi-agency communications.
Develop, implement, and manage the Chamber’s overall communications plan and calendar—including crisis responses.
Coordinate, schedule, and provide training for leadership and staff speaking engagements, including crafting speeches, talking points, and scripts to position the organization as a regional thought leader. Identify opportunities to secure media appearances for members and Board members to serve as spokespeople.
Develop and facilitate the internal and external communications strategy for personnel announcements.
Collaborate with the Marketing and Communications team to plan and execute organization-wide integrated marketing campaigns.
Provide editing and copywriting support for Marketing and Communications publications.
Utilize project management software to coordinate initiatives, manage timelines, and ensure timely delivery of materials.
Stay up-to-date on industry developments and emerging technologies (including AI tools) to enhance communications strategies and identify opportunities for innovation.

Position Requirements

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:

A bachelor’s degree in public relations, marketing, communications, a related field, or equivalent work experience is required.
2-5 years of experience in corporate, in-house, agency, policymaker, political office, or similar work setting is required.
Ability to show a strong portfolio of strategic writing and media work.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with PR monitoring platforms; experience with Adobe Creative Suite is a plus.
Experience in media and public relations, strategic planning, communications strategy development, speech writing, and project management.
Must be an effective public speaker capable of engaging both internal and external audiences. Must be able to communicate ideas verbally, and in writing.
Excellent writing and proofreading skills. Understanding of Associated Press journalistic style is preferred.
Strong communication skills are essential, with a keen eye for detail and a systematic, logical approach to problem-solving.
Knowledge of emerging technologies, particularly AI tools, is preferred.
Must be committed to working as part of a team and able to establish strong internal and external working relationships. Actively contributes to brainstorming/concept development sessions.
Punctuality, organization, and exceptional project and time management skills are necessary. Ability to focus in an open-office environment required.
Must have the ability to drive to appointments outside the office

DECISION MAKING:

Makes decisions related to Chamber communications, marketing, public relations, and media. Generally, works independently but is also collaborative in nature. Determines when others need to be included in the decision-making process.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY:

Responsible for managing the areas of the Marketing and Communications budget that relate to communications initiatives, media platforms, and other fiscal responsibilities as assigned. Supports revenue-generating initiatives of the Chamber and the Marketing and Communications team.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT:

Keeps projects moving by using project management software. Responsible for communications strategies, and all associated tasks including workflow, timeline management, and external vendors if applicable. Supports evaluation of outcomes.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/REQUIREMENTS:

Typically sitting at a desk or table
Occasional lifting of light objects (less than 24 pounds)
Intermittently walking, standing, bending, and carrying
Requires use of safe work practices with office equipment, avoidance of trips and falls and observance of fire regulations
Some repetitive motion is involved
Requires manual dexterity, visual and auditory acuity
Work is performed in an office setting

Application Instructions

Submit cover letter, resume, and writing samples to employment@nashvillechamber.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Thank you.

Position Description / Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Position Requirements

Application Instructions