Director of Communications

First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest

Snapshot

Denomination: PCUSA

Weekly Attendance: 300

Location: Lake Forest, IL

The Role: Communications Director

Meet First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest:

First Presbyterian Church welcomes you to explore a deeper faith in Christ as you take part in the ministries here. Discover the joy and compassion we share as we:

• Worship God, and share the joys and concerns of the world.
• Learn to live Christ-centered lives at every stage of the journey.
• Connect with one another and our community in a spirit of care, belonging, and accountability.
• Serve our neighbors in need near and far, helping the world look more like God wants.
• Invite others into a deeper faith in Christ, who leads us into the world in service by the power of the Holy Spirit.

About the Communications Director:

The Director of Communication oversees communication of the mission and ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest. Responsibilities include strategically shaping internal and external communication to promote ministries, encourage participation, highlight mission, and reinforce congregational identity.

The Communications Director's Responsibilities Include:

• Develop and implement an effective communication strategy.
• Develop and manage all aspects of church communication, including bulletins, newsletters, annual reports, posters, flyers, signage, and other pieces as needed. Responsible for staying current with changes in the technology industry that would impact the church communications.
• Ensure the website is up-to-date. Maintain a system for timely posting and withdrawal of website information.
• Create and post content on social media and engage with the audience.
• Produce promotional materials and other supporting documents for all ministries of the church.
• Writing, editing, designing, and production of promotional materials.
• Collaborate on weekly worship service bulletins and other bulletins as needed.
• Produce and place external marketing messages for the church, including advertisements, in various media outlets, including newspapers—digital and print—radio, partner websites, and others as appropriate.
• Provide support for weekly worship livestream and upload podcast of sermons.
• Attend weekly staff meetings and other meetings as needed.
• Train staff as necessary to ensure consistency and back-up capabilities, including specifying access to the appropriate software.
• Ensure copyright and legal clearance of all publications and materials.
• Prepare and manage the annual Communications departmental budget.

What You Bring:

The following describes many of the characteristics of the ideal candidate for the Communications Director:

Education & Experience

• Under-grad degree in communications, marketing, design, or related field preferred, or at least 5 years of equivalent work experience
• Demonstrated leadership experience in marketing communications, including integration of traditional print, electronic, and audio/video media, as well as hands-on experience in design and layout

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong computer skills required with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe Creative Suite 6 or Creative Cloud (InDesign, Photoshop), and WordPress
• Experience with major social media platforms
• Ability to use good judgment and make independent decisions
• Ability to function well with little supervision
• Clear and persuasive oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work steadily and calmly
• Knowledge of church life preferred

Personal Characteristics & Qualifications

• Takes initiative and makes suggestions
• Eager and collaborative team player
• Effective and sensitive in dealing with staff and congregation
• Well-organized and punctual

What it's Like to Live in Lake Forest, IL:

Living in Lake Forest, IL, feels like being part of a tight-knit, welcoming community, making it a wonderful place for families. Lake Forest has highly-rated schools that offer AP credit to high school students, providing excellent college preparation. Since the pandemic, over 1,400 new families, many of whom are young families, have moved to Lake Forest.

Residents enjoy the beautiful parks, stunning waterfront, and charming downtown filled with delightful shops and cozy restaurants. The town's safe, friendly atmosphere is perfect for raising children. Plus, with Chicago less than an hour’s drive away, you can enjoy city excitement and convenience.

Lake Forest's rich history and warm community spirit make it a truly special place to call home.