Responsibilities

• Manages and oversees communication strategies that align with KS enterprise, division goals and enhance the KS brand and reputation among key stakeholders and the public.
• Leads the development and execution of strategic communications plans, ensuring consistency with KS brand guidelines and organizational standards across all communications and projects.
• Identifies opportunities for continuous improvement by researching and recommending optimal communication strategies aligned with industry best practices.
• Leads and/or assists with special projects as needed.
• Assists the Director, Strategic Communications with issues/crisis management, assisting to create materials such as statements, press releases, talking points, and media training resources.
• Supports in developing issues/crisis communications plans and strategies and provides regular training for key internal partners on crisis communications protocol.
• Develops and maintains relationships with media, community leaders, and key influencers to enhance awareness of KS initiatives and foster strategic partnerships.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with internal stakeholders, collaborating cross-functionally to increase trust and drive organizational effectiveness.
• Fosters partnerships with media, consultants, and external community members to enhance the KS reputation and support organizational initiatives.
• Works closely with Communications leaders and staff on organization-wide campaigns and strategically addresses external issues to advance communication goals and organizational initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years directly related work experience.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience supervising staff, including coaching and performance management.
• Ability to develop and execute communication strategies that deliver outcomes to targeted audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to hold sensitive information in confidence and operate with discretion.
• Strong analytical skills, negotiation and problem-solving.
• Strong customer service orientation, and models leadership behavior with colleagues and clients.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to review, edit, and collaborate effectively to produce high-quality work on time.
• Excellent knowledge of both new and traditional communication technologies, with strong skills in utilizing various communication tools and platforms.
• Working knowledge of Hawai`i’s varied communities and the state and local government structure in the areas of business development and/or education.

Preferred

• Highly skilled in the Hawaiian language.
• Working knowledge of the media.
• Familiarity with Kamehameha Schools’ mission, vision and lines of business.
• Knowledge, understanding and appreciation of Hawaiian history, culture and worldview as it relates to the operations of Kamehameha Schools as a Native Hawaiian organization.
• Familiarity with the Hawaiian community and with issues of relevance to KS as a Native Hawaiian organization.

Benefits

• Our Total Rewards Program embodies KS's dedication to the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our employee ʻohana. Explore our comprehensive Benefits Summary for more information.