SEIU Local 2015
Communications Director
Based Statewide in California
SEIU Local 2015 is the largest local union in California, representing more than half a million long-term care workers (home care, skilled nursing facility, and assisted living center workers) throughout the state. We are also the largest long-term care union in the U.S. and the largest local union in SEIU. Our members are as diverse as the state’s population and united in their commitment to caring for California’s older adults and those with disabilities.
SEIU 2015 is a leading voice, advocate, and authority—both locally and nationally—for quality long-term care as we endeavor to raise standards in the industry for both our members and their consumers. Our members lead with their justice agenda and commitment to being an Anti-Racist Organization. For more information please visit seiu2015.org, @SEIU2015.
Position Summary
The SEIU 2015 Communications Director leads the department’s work to amplify the voices of long-term care providers to form a clear, concise, and engaging message. The work of the Communications Department informs and mobilizes members; involves other stakeholders, including the senior and disability rights communities; persuades decision makers; and applies public pressure to advance our members’ work to build and protect our care infrastructure.
The Communications Director leads in the development of a strategic communications plan to help achieve our organizational priorities. In coordination with union Officers, other Directors and member leaders, the Communications Director leads the development of the union’s overarching message and guides the Communications Department in maintaining message discipline in our campaigns.
This position requires directing multiple staff and consultants working on high profile and sometimes confidential issues.
The Communications Director shows a demonstrated commitment to racial, economic, gender and social justice in messaging, leading staff, and interacting with colleagues and members.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Develop and direct campaign communications, media strategy, member to member communications programs, message development and message discipline, including crisis and rapid response communications
- Manage a dynamic team of communications professionals within the department; prioritize staff training and development
- Lead the Communications team in getting and shaping media coverage to amplify member issues and key campaign messages
- Lead on and demonstrate the organizations’ core values - Leadership, Compassion, Excellence, Accountability, Transparency, and Empowerment including high ethical standards; train, develop, nurture and mentor members and staff; encourage teamwork and participation by staff and members
- Ensure outstanding representation of the organization to internal and external allies and constituents
- Oversee and track the department’s budget
- Work with the Executive Office to effectively position the union among stakeholders
- Work effectively with other Locals, SEIU State Council and community groups
- Direct strategies to improve the public image and visibility of the labor movement both locally and nationally
- Ensure the union is using social media strategically to advance our priorities
- Lead the Comms team as they develop and prepare member and Officer union spokespeople, including member and staff trainings
Qualifications:
- Previous experience with the labor movement or other advocacy organizations
- Experience working with a culturally diverse group
- Proven ability to plan and to problem-solve in a manner that shows both strategic and tactical thinking
- Demonstrated ability to resolve conflicts while maintaining important and effective relationships
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively—with judgment and discretion—in politically sensitive and high-pressure environments
- Demonstrated ability to uphold organizational priorities, standards and values
Experience:
- 10+ years of experience in campaign communications, media relations, public affairs, or related working, including at least five years managing strategy, planning and program development
- 4+ years of supervisory experience leading a team of 5 or more
A strong commitment to building a progressive labor movement and organizing the unorganized.
Scope and Nature of Supervision:
The Political Director reports directly to the Chief of Staff. Supervision and direction may change depending on the focus of work.
Working Conditions:
- Willingness and ability to work long, irregular hours, including weekends and holidays.
- Must have a valid California driver’s license, reliable use of car for work, and required automobile insurance
- Willingness and ability to travel as required
- Work is generally performed in the field with members and staff
Salary Range: $136,785.56 - $143,710.33
Job descriptions are not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of every activity or responsibility that is required for each role.
SEIU Local 2015 is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity. We are committed to finding talent that is not determined on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Don’t check off every box in the requirements listed above? Please apply anyway! Studies have shown that marginalized communities - such as women, LGBTQ+ and people of color - are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. SEIU Local 2015 is dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible workplace that fosters a sense of belonging – so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to still consider submitting an application. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings!
WHEN APPLYING: Be sure to indicate that you saw this information at UNIONJOBS.COM.