Communications specialist

Position : Communications Specialist

Reports To: Director of Communications

FLSA Status: Exempt

Location: Philadelphia, PA (In-person attendance at events and programs is required)

Last Review Date: September 2025

Salary Range: $50,000-$56,000

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Communications Specialist is a hands-on, detail-oriented role responsible for executing the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia's communications. Reporting to the Director of Communications, this position focuses on the tactical implementation of content across all channels, including social media, the website, and email marketing, among others. The Specialist will play a critical role in data analysis, using key performance indicators (KPIs) to track campaign effectiveness, inform strategy, and support organizational goals. This role requires an independent, results-driven individual who is passionate about translating creative ideas into impactful, measurable collateral and outcomes.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Content Creation & Execution (60%)

• Create, publish, and maintain compelling, high-quality content across all platforms, including the website (WordPress), social media (HeyOrca! management platform), and email newsletters (Constant Contact or ActiveCampaign).
• Develop and implement a dynamic social media strategy, including real-time, on-the-ground coverage of programs and events through photography, short-form video, and live content.
• Capture, edit, and produce a variety of video content, including short-form clips for social media, b-roll footage, and long-form video for the website and YouTube channel.
• Manage a centralized digital asset library, including photo, video, and graphic libraries.
• Work collaboratively with the Director of Communications to distill creative feedback into finished content and project plans.
• Assist in the creation or development of print collateral and other marketing materials as needed, ensuring all content adheres to brand guidelines. Work with other departments and team members on template adherence and utilization for marketing materials where appropriate.

Data & Analytics (25%)

• Help develop and maintain a system for tracking communications KPIs within the CRM.
• Track, analyze, and report on key performance metrics across all digital channels (social media, email, website traffic, and more) using tools like Google Analytics.
• Collaborate with the Development and Membership teams to track the impact of communications on donations, membership, and program engagement, using data from the organization's CRM (Salesforce).
• Provide regular, strategic insights and recommendations based on data to improve content performance and drive organizational goals.

Project Management & Collaboration (10%)

• Lead the day-to-day project management of digital campaigns and content creation, ensuring tasks are completed on time and in alignment with the overall communications calendar.
• Liaise with external contractors for specialized services like photography or video production, when outsourced.
• Work with various teams, including Programs, Education, Travel, Professional Exchanges, and Development, to identify storytelling opportunities and create content that highlights their work.
• Maintain a working knowledge of the local civic, media, and influencer landscape to inform content and collaboration opportunities.

Special Projects as Assigned (5%)

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• 3-5 years of experience in communications, marketing, or digital content creation.
• Proven experience in creating and managing content for social media and websites.
• Hands-on experience with digital analytics, including Google Analytics and social media insights.
• Experience with or a willingness to learn about Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, with a strong preference for Salesforce.
• Proficiency in content creation tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and video editing software.

Required Skills & Competencies:

• Strong project management skills with the ability to turn big ideas into actionable, component parts.
• Proficiency in capturing and editing digital media, including photography and videography.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a keen eye for detail and proofreading.
• A data-driven mindset with the ability to interpret metrics and translate them into actionable insights.
• Energetic, self-starter with a proactive approach to content creation.
• Capable of working independently and as part of a highly collaborative team.
• Passion for the mission of the World Affairs Council and an interest in international affairs.
• Availability for some evening and weekend work to cover events as needed.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• The salary range for this position is $50,000-$56,000 commensurate with experience.
• The World Affairs Council offers a competitive benefits package that includes:
• Health Insurance
• 403b Retirement Plan
• Generous paid time off
• High-flex hybrid work environment including a Center City office and remote work capabilities
• Supportive work and family benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Occasional fully paid domestic and international travel
• Participation in and access to world class speakers including authors, heads of state, elected officials, activists and leaders is a key opportunity for all staff.
• Engagement with international professional visitors.
• This position is classified as exempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity. Accordingly, World Affairs will provide equal opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, familial status, genetic information, domestic/sexual violence victim status, pregnancy, veteran status, use of guide or support animal because of blindness, deafness, or physical handicap, and/or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all areas of employment, layoff, compensation, benefits, and all other conditions, terms, and privileges of employment in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. World Affairs strives to employ and promote the best-qualified person for each job and, in doing so, will comply with all legal requirements.

ABOUT THE WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL OF PHILADELPHIA

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia (World Affairs) is where continents, cultures, and ideas connect. World Affairs is the Philadelphia region’s largest and oldest international affairs nonprofit, with 75 years of expertise in connecting Philadelphia to the world. World Affairs is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that curates speaker programs, professional development, youth education, and public diplomacy. World Affairs hosts global delegations and travels the world, reaching more than 125 countries annually. Through authentic people-to-people diplomacy and exchange of ideas, World Affairs advances Philadelphia’s understanding of the world by creating the next generation of global citizens and furthering Philadelphia’s position as an international hub for business, education, culture, and sub-national diplomacy.

TO APPLY

Please submit your resume and cover letter to [email protected] . Please include the name of the position in the subject line. Incomplete applications will not be considered. We are unable to accept phone inquiries related to employment opportunities.