Communications Specialist

Chicago, IL (On-site)

$53K/yr – $55K/yrMid Level3+ years expFull time

Posted 5 months ago

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Job Summary

Drive YMCA media relations and internal communications across multiple hubs to protect reputation and align messaging.

  • Own media relations strategy and day-to-day responses for the region.
  • Must-have: strong writing skills and media relations experience.
  • Standout: cross-functional collaboration with HR, Operations, and program teams across locations.

Job Description

Responsibilities

  • Support and execute media relations strategies that elevate the YMCA’s visibility and reputation across the region
  • Draft press releases, media advisories, talking points, and statements
  • Manage incoming media inquiries and coordinate interviews with YMCA leadership and subject-matter experts
  • Maintain media lists and monitor news coverage related to the YMCA, community issues, and key partners
  • Assist with crisis and issues communications as needed, following established protocols
  • Develop and distribute clear, timely internal communications for YMCA staff, leaders, and volunteers across multiple locations and program areas
  • Draft internal emails, memos, announcements, FAQs, and leadership messages
  • Support organizational initiatives by ensuring consistent messaging and tone across the Association
  • Collaborate with HR, Operations, and program teams to communicate policy updates, milestones, and organizational news
  • Write and edit compelling copy for a variety of channels, including website content, emails, newsletters, social media, presentations, and marketing materials

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, or preferred
  • Minimum three years of related work
  • Strong writing skills and ability to self-
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and to pivot seamlessly between strategy and
  • Experience responding to media requests and interacting with members of the news
  • Exceptional understanding of social media platforms and analytics
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (MS Word, Excel, Outlook) with the ability to learn new technology
  • Ability to travel locally on a regular basis to multiple YMCA Hubs when needed
  • Meet physical qualifications required as outlined in job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.
  • Willingness and ability to complete all mandatory YMCA training and certifications, along with ongoing or additional training as assigned by the supervisor, within established timeframe.

    Benefits

    • Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
    • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
    • Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
    • 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
    • Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
    • Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
    • Discounts on programs , employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.
    YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago logo

    YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

    Established in 1858, the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago was created as a place where community members could find growth and support. Today, 165 years later, the YMCA of Metro Chicago has 14 centers, five camps, and nearly 100 extension sites, making the Y one of the largest social enterprises in Chicago. More than half a million individuals rely on the Y each year for social guidance and individual empowerment. The Y has remained at the heart and soul of personal development in Chicagoland and the Midwest and intends to do so for generations to come.

    Chicago, Illinois, USA
    1.2K employees (23 in marketing)

    Traffic Signals

    Monthly Visitors
    44K
    Monthly Google Ads Budget
    $7.6K
    Traffic Source Mix
    Search
    51.8%
    Direct
    39.9%
    Referral
    6%
    Social
    1.4%
    Paid
    0.8%

    Headcount Trend

    Current headcount: ~1.2K

    Marketing Team

    Marketing Team Size
    21 (2% of company)
    Median Career Experience
    12 years
    Median Tenure
    3.3 years

    Funding

    Total Funding
    $10.7K
    Last Raise
    $10.7K
    Grant, 5 months ago

    Funding History

    • Oct 2025
      Grant
    • Aug 2021
      Grant • $10.7K

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