Chicago Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO

Communications Director
(in-person)

Based in Chicago, IL

 

About the Chicago Federation of Labor
The Chicago Federation of Labor is the nation’s third largest central labor council of the AFL-CIO uniting approximately 300 local unions who in turn represent half a million members in Chicago and Cook County. The CFL is dedicated to the fight for social, economic, and racial justice in Chicago and beyond.

The Chicago Federation of Labor seeks a Communications Director to plan, develop, and implement the CFL’s entire communications portfolio, including strategic communications, media relations, internal and external publications, and social media.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement an effective strategy for all internal and external communications, including a quarterly printed newsletter, weekly online newsletter, and consistent social media content, for a variety of audiences
• Direct creative and engage in content, production and design of merchandise and all publications
• Develop strategic communications plans to advance organizational goals through earned and digital media
• Provide communications support to affiliate unions and convene regular Communications Directors meetings to share best practices across organizations
• Build and manage relationships with reporters and media outlets to facilitate communication of key narratives
• Plan and coordinate press conferences and rallies, capturing photo and video content from events to post on social media platforms
• Coordinate with the political and organizing departments to develop and implement legislative and electoral campaigns, driving the production of direct mail, social media assets and other digital content
• Oversee development of assets for the CFL’s annual Labor Day reception, including promotional
• materials, Solidarity Book, website and event collateral
• Supervise external vendors, including designers, printers, photographers and videographers
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the organization to guide the decision-making process
• Draft messaging, talking points, and speeches
• Track and analyze the effectiveness of the CFL’s communications and brand strategy
• Ensure organizational content and assets adhere to the CFL’s brand standards

Skill Requirements:

• Minimum five (5) years of related work experience in communications, public relations or media with on-the-record experience
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, social media platforms and content management systems for website maintenance
• Demonstrated writing skills and proofreading skills required; design and layout skills a plus
• Strong personal skills, including an ability to build and navigate intricate stakeholder relationships and work effectively within a team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with an ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment under tight deadlines
• Ability to adapt to new trends in media and communications
• Strong project management skills to be able to see a project from planning to execution

Other Requirements

• Ability to work in-person in downtown Chicago
• Ability to work weekend and evening hours as needed
• Access to a reliable vehicle (frequent travel within Cook County required)

Salary & Benefits:
Salary: $85,000 – $115,000 annually
Benefits: This position includes a 100% employer-paid pension, health, dental and vision plan. The CFL also provides a competitive package of paid time off and paid holidays.

The Chicago Federation of Labor is an equal opportunity employer.

To Apply:
Interested applicants should email a cover letter and résumé to apply@chicagolabor.org with the subject line: Communications Director.