The Dawes Arboretum is actively recruiting a Director of Marketing & Public Relations to join the organization’s Leadership Team. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Marketing & Public Relations leads the development and execution of strategic marketing, branding, outreach, and communication initiatives that promote The Arboretum’s image, mission and vision.

This role provides strategic leadership to a creative team responsible for shaping and sharing the organization’s story across digital, print, and public channels. The Director oversees media and public relations, manages team workflow, and works cross-departmentally to ensure consistent messaging and engagement. This position also directs marketing and community outreach activities—including digital campaigns, web and social media content, customer engagement, graphics, signage, and related vendor partnerships.

Some of the specific responsibilities of this position include but are not limited to:

• Collaborate with the Leadership Team to design and execute a comprehensive annual marketing and communications plan that reflects organizational goals, strategic priorities, and measurable outcomes. Align marketing and communications initiatives with fundraising, advocacy, and programmatic efforts to advance the organization’s mission.
  
• Identify key audiences, develop engagement strategies, and refine the brand voice to support growing awareness and Arboretum relationships.
  
• Research, develop, execute and evaluate all The Arboretum’s advertising, public relations and promotions on local, regional and national levels. Refine strategy and develop best practices, policies and procedures to ensure effective activation.
  
• Cultivate and manage relationships with the media, and support promotions related to organizations and businesses, key community stakeholders and the general community.
  
• Collaborate, review and oversee the creation of in-house and external communications and branded materials in alignment with organizational brand and voice including brochures, newsletters, signage, exhibition collateral, advertisements, radio and television spots, production pieces, logos, graphics, website and digital messaging.
  
• Identify potential new markets, innovative program offerings and customer service improvements through surveys and research.
  
• Partner with team members and departments to develop, gather, analyze and report visitor metrics and marketing outcomes for making recommendations, and develop practices that increase awareness, activate revenue and improve organizational efficiencies.
  
• Develop and implement any necessary crisis communication strategies and help the organization proactively plan for potential questions, issues and complaints. 
  
• Lead, coach, train and mentor a multidisciplinary marketing & communications team.
  
• Ensure departmental participation and support at all Arboretum events or programs and serve on any internal operational or Board-related committees.
  
  

      If the above speaks to you, please submit your cover letter and resume demonstrating the following:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations or related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Seven (7) years of progressive experience in marketing, communications or brand strategy, including team leadership.
• Proven organizational and time management skills, with a strong attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints.  Ability to write speeches and articles from a brand voice.  Ability to speak professionally with staff, members, volunteers, visitors, groups, the public, and/or board of trustees.
• Strong strategic planning skills and competency in graphic design, copywriting, social media management, media relations, community relations management and project management.
• Demonstrated understanding of non-profit communications, mission-driven storytelling, and audience engagement.
• Valid driver’s license and evidence of insurability.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Organizational Culture 

At The Dawes Arboretum our staff members are dedicated team players, determined problem solvers, and resourceful stewards who are committed to an atmosphere of respectful, honest, and open communication. Our work environment is one of high energy, high activity, and mutual support. We provide opportunities for learning and professional development, and a gratifying work experience.

The annual salary range for this exempt level position is $70,000-$80,000.

The Dawes Arboretum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at The Arboretum will be made without regard or consideration of an individual’s race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, marital status, veteran or military status, genetic information or any other protected status. The Dawes Arboretum values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment.