The ideal candidate should be highly creative, possess excellent communication skills, have a keen understanding of public relations, and a proven track record in developing and implementing effective public affairs strategies. This person should have a deep understanding of media relations and effective communications that will help build trust in the almond industry. Experience in agriculture is a plus. This is a full-time, exempt level position located at our headquarters based in Modesto, CA.
The following duties are typical of those performed by employees in this job title; however, employees may perform other related duties.
- Develop and implement effective and strategic communications plan(s) that supports global positioning and strategic direction.
- Organize and facilitate public consultations, media briefings and tours, and promotional events and activities as needed.
- Act as one of the organization’s media spokespeople and respond to inquiries from the media and other parties.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, influencers, and other media representatives.
- Track and monitor media activity and developments that may impact the almond industry sharing news as needed with key stakeholders.
- Facilitating media interviews and lining up key spokespeople, organizing briefings and messaging and conducting media training as needed.
- Develop, integrate, and implement PR activities and strategies designed to enhance organizational reputation.
- Prepare and edit organizational publications, including press releases, brochures, collateral and similar documents including management of the Almond Almanac.
- Support various communication needs for the annual Almond Conference – including program descriptions, materials, etc.
- Present and support the Global Communications or other Committees as needed.
- Manage PR agency team(s) and direct work assignments as needed across programs.
- Coordinate with internal teams and with Global Communications department to ensure consistent messaging across a wide variety of topics and audiences.
- Support and manage crisis and reputation management communications as needed.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and manage USDA-AMS reviews.
- Advance organization’s global position with relevant constituents.
- Write and edit press releases, speeches, articles, and social media content.
- Support with executive and CEO communication needs and briefings prior to public speaking opportunities.
- Support the CEO to achieve organizational goals and objectives by administering the communications and public relations initiatives as determined by the larger organizational strategic planning process.
- Support with executive calendar of events and speaking points as needed.
- Develop and execute varied and integrated communications products including website, print publications, newsletters, online communications, media and public relations.
- Evaluate an integrated strategic communications plan to advance the organization's brand identity and broaden awareness of its programs and priorities.
- Refine organization’s core messages to ensure brand consistency.
- Resolve public affairs issues.
- Enhance meaningful relationships with targeted, high-level external audiences - government relations, public policy groups, etc.
- Perform some operational functions such as budget management for assigned area.
Qualifications:
Knowledge of:
- Principles and practices of effective written and oral communications, including knowledge of the Associated Press Stylebook (AP style), English grammar, spelling and punctuation
- Agricultural production, sustainability, food safety, regulatory, technical and communications practices Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong understanding of media operations and public relations
Skill in:
- Communication media including print, digital, social, video and audio
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
- Excellent writing and presentation experience
- Proficiency in MS Office and social media
- Strong project management skills
- Excellent organizational and leadership skills
- Proven strategic thinking and analytical skills
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline focused environment.
Other Requirements:
- Ability to travel approximately 20%
Education And Experience: A typical way to obtain the above knowledge and skill is a combination of education and experience equivalent to:
- A bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, or a related field
- 5-7+ years proven experience as a Public Affairs Officer, public relations, government relations, or similar role
Physical Characteristics: The physical abilities involved in the performance of essential duties are:
- Working at a computer for extended periods of time
- Vision sufficient to read handwritten and printed documents and computer screens
- Speech and hearing sufficient to communicate by phone and in person
- Manual dexterity sufficient to use a variety of office equipment and tools, computer keyboards, and to manipulate papers
- May lift up to 30 pounds and manipulate heavier objects using dollies
- Travel approximately 20%, primarily consisting of travel within California
