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Thomas Jefferson Foundation · 18 hours ago

Communications Specialist

Charlottesville, VA

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

The Thomas Jefferson Foundation is dedicated to preserving Monticello and engaging audiences with Thomas Jefferson's history. They are seeking a Communications Specialist to enhance awareness and engagement through effective communication strategies, media outreach, and collaborative projects.

BooksMuseums and Historical SitesNon Profit

Responsibilities

Supports Foundation net revenue goals and constituent engagement goals for tourism, retail sales, special events, and educational programs through various multi-channel marketing and communications strategies

Supports media outreach by drafting press releases, advisories, media kits. Works collaboratively with colleagues, partner organizations, and other stakeholders to produce on-brand, engaging messaging that advances the organization’s goals and mission

Monitors relevant media trends/topics and routinely reports on mentions—those both directly about Monticello and that which is germane to our work. Provides routine clip service for both department and organization leadership

Works with department/division leadership and strategic communications advisors to brainstorm pitching opportunities. Shepherds successful pitches to generate earned media. Ensures participation of colleagues pertinent to media’s interest in themes, topics, exhibits, exhibitions, openings, projects, and events. Maintains media lists by subject matter interest

Fields, evaluates, and makes recommendations to the Director of Marketing & Communications around on-site filming requests; e.g., documentary shoots. Spearheads the planning of approved filming requests in conjunction with various departments to maximize each opportunity while minimizing impact on guest experience, staff time, and historic structures. Prepares and submits for approval all required documentation (on-site filming agreement, certificate of insurance, drone operation licensing) and thoroughly communicates all media visit plans to relevant stakeholders. Escorts media visits—arranging additional staff support as needed—from arrival to departure. Ensures compliance with all Monticello on-site filming policies

Spearheads advance planning and logistics for brand photoshoots to support Monticello visitation and advertising. Works with relevant departments to schedule shoots (dates, times, locations), minimize impact on operations, and ensure the Digital Content Producer and/or contracted shooters are “set up for success.” Manages relationship with modeling agency and scheduling models. Manages relevant paperwork and invoicing with the Director of Marketing & Communications

Runs point on approved interview requests, both on-site and virtual. Solicits recommendations on interviewee selection from the Content Committee, as needed. Plans interview logistics (interview location, scheduling for both visiting crew and interviewee, equipment load in/load out) and escorts from arrival to departure. Monitors in-progress interviews to ensure accuracy and provide support for interviewee. Exercises sound judgment and professionally handles concerns, requests, or unexpected challenges during interviews. Provides advance briefing on schedule and logistics for relevant stakeholders and post-interview briefing to Director of Marketing & Communications

Arranges media tour requests from journalists, local and state DMO (CACVB, VTC). Works with Reservations to book tickets, make additional arrangements as needed (e.g., interviews, wine tastings or visits to the vineyard), and share schedule with both visiting media and internal stakeholders through the organization’s Special Tours listserv

Serves as reviewer and proofreader of written materials (e.g., Monticello magazine, brochures, on-site signage) to ensure consistent, on-brand messaging across Foundation collateral

Works with various departments and subject matter experts to update existing 'about Monticello' documents including one-pagers. Collaboratively creates new materials as needed

Responsible for updating the communications portion of department calendars. Ensures the Futures Calendar is current where comms, interviews, and media visits are concerned

Qualification

Media outreachPress release writingStrategic marketingProject managementInterpersonal skillsCommunicationTeam collaborationSelf-motivatedPresentation skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, marketing, or liberal arts; or equivalent experience which demonstrates required knowledge, skills and abilities

Ability to manage an array of strategic and tactical marketing projects with multiple partners

Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with people at many levels. Ability to influence people

High energy, self-motivated