Job Description
Job Type
Full-time
Description
DEPARTMENT SUMMARY :
Holt International finds and supports permanent, loving families for children who are orphaned, abandoned or at serious risk of separation from their family. Through Holt's model of child-centered care, we help vulnerable children grow and develop to their fullest potential.
Today, the majority of Holt's revenue comes through fundraising, for which the Philanthropy and Communications team is responsible. Philanthropy and Communications (P&C) is tasked with ensuring we are able to accomplish our long-term objectives by having financial resources available to support all of our current programs around the world, and take on new areas of need. Holt's P&C team is responsible for strengthening existing benevolent giving and generating new donation revenue by communicating Holt's work and mission in a way that draws greater interest and support for our child welfare work overseas.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Copywriter is a is an innovative, results-oriented member of the P&C team who is responsible for developing and editing high quality, effective and creative stories, fundraising appeal content, email communications, social media posts, blogs and other written content consistent with Holt's brand under the supervision of the Senior Content Manager. Contributes to effective advertising, marketing and communications with the goal of engaging diverse audiences through multiple platforms and mediums in print and digital.
This position works cross-departmentally with a variety of domestic, international, program and project managers to ensure content and content marketing-related activities are initiated and completed in a timely manner, in accordance with the monthly communications and fundraising calendars.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS :
1. Develops Holt's communication stream by
identifying, pitching, researching, writing and editing engaging content for use in Holt's blog, newsletters, email communications, fundraising appeals and marketing materials. Producing clean copy, free of typos and grammatical errors in AP Style. Copyediting the writing and communications of other departments at Holt International to ensure proper branding and professionalism, under the supervision of the Senior Content Manager.
2. Maintains copywriting and messaging quality by
thoroughly researching and writing vivid and inspiring copy content. Communicating with contributing writers regarding desired writing style, length and content. Copyediting to obtain clear, concise, effective final copy content. Verifying factual information as needed. Researching and following best practices for digital and print content and writing engaging stories and posts for social media and the Holt International website. Obtaining appropriate approvals for articles and content at appropriate points in the editorial process. Following AP Style guidelines and Holt's child protection policy.
3. Promotes continual improvement in Holt's marketing efforts by
researching best practices for fundraising and marketing messaging to potential adoptive families, sponsors and donors. Taking initiative to find and participate in extended education opportunities at least 2-4 times per year. Recommending copy content to the Senior Content Manager. Contributing copy ideas and concepts to the creative process. Contributing to ongoing evaluation of all channels of communication for effectiveness of copy and message. Researching and implementing best practices in SEO to strengthen the digital reach of blog and web content.
4. Demonstrates the ability to work independently and collaboratively within the Creative Services department by
initiating projects when appropriate, or expressing ideas in team meetings and brainstorm sessions, by effectively meeting production deadlines and by proactively maintaining relationships with other departments in the organization. Going above and beyond assigned projects to ensure highly effective print and web-based marketing and communications.
5. Contributes to the team effort by
exhibiting cooperative and effective work relationships, such as responding positively to challenges, assignments, inter- and intra- departmental requests, participating in team brainstorm and planning meetings, and seeing beyond individual tasks to help fulfill the organizational goals.
6. Contributes to a positive, productive work environment by
meeting attendance and punctuality guidelines and pre-arranging time off with appropriate notice; treating all people with dignity and respect; responding to creative projects with positivity and constructive criticism when necessary; exhibiting good listening and comprehension skills, including giving and welcoming feedback; and communicating effectively by email and phone.
Requirements
SUCCESS FACTORS :
The successful copywriter is detail-oriented and deadline driven. A team player committed to developing quality content and meeting deadlines. Must be approachable and dependable, and exhibit a confident, flexible communication style as well as the ability to explain processes, solicit feedback and discuss information and actions with others in a patient, open manner. Must be open to feedback and have exceptional problem-solving abilities.
QUALIFICATIONS AND JOB EVALUATION DOCUMENTATION:
KNOWLEDGE (MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS):
Bachelor's degree in journalism, English, communications or related field and 1 year of experience in related work, preferably in fundraising and/or nonprofit communications, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to research and write engaging, in-depth communications on deadline. Knowledge of Macintosh desktop publishing software, including Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Word. Knowledge and experience with social media platforms and content management systems, including Wordpress, a plus. Excellent recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
INFORMATION PROCESSING:
Research, analyze, compile and retrieve information for all publications using a wide array of informational processes including interviewing, information gathering in the field, etc. Write and coordinate effective copy for all channels of communication under the supervision of the Senior Content Manager. Ensure accuracy, while also drafting compelling copy.
SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY:
Supports and advances Holt's communications strategy. Works independently and in collaboration with the creative content and fundraising teams, including the Multimedia Design Specialist, Email Marketing Specialist, Graphic Designer, Omnichannel Marketing Manager and Creative Services Manager and any outside contractors or consultants. Helps to meet communications and fundraising goals, maintains project flow to meet deadlines, and solve problems to overcome project hurdles.
INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION:
Works well with other employees to comply with organizational policies. Exercises good judgment, courtesy and tact in interaction with employees and the public. Communicates appropriately for cross-cultural environments, including communication/protocol with overseas staff. Empowers and provides constructive feedback to co-workers and other contributing writers to effectively promote Holt and advocate for the children and families we serve. Establishes and maintains positive relationships with commercial vendors.
IMPACT OF RESULTS:
Accurate, timely and compelling productions that communicate the mission and global impact of Holt International.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
None
REPORTS DIRECTLY TO:
Senior Content Manager
WORKING/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
Office based position with up to 5% international travel as needed. Ability to sit, stand and use computer for up to 8 hours/day and lift up to 30 lbs.
DESCRIBE CONTROLS:
The Senior Content Manager provides direction and reviews work for effectiveness, accuracy and results obtained.
WORKS DIRECTLY WITH:
The Senior Content Manager, Multimedia Design Specialist, the Creative Services Manager, the Omnichannel Marketing Manager, Graphic Designer and the Email Marketing Specialist. Holt International Children's Services, Inc.
Job Tags
Permanent employment, Full time, For contractors, Overseas, Flexible hours,