Communications Manager Jobs in Missouri

Company Description

About KIPP Kansas City Public Schools:

KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Marketing & Communication Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping the public image and reputation of the organization. This role develops and implements strategic communication plans to increase KIPP KC’s brand awareness, attract new supporters, drive engagement with the organization’s mission, and support enrollment and recruitment initiatives. The Marketing & Communication Manager manages all internal and external communication channels, serves as the district’s media spokesperson, and ensures consistent, transparent, and proactive messaging across all platforms. Working closely with the School Management, Regional Leadership Team, and the Digital Storytelling Assistant, this position shapes the district's public image, managing crisis communications, and ensuring that families, staff, and community stakeholders feel connected to the district’s mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Marketing Strategy & Development:

- Develop and execute strategic marketing plans to achieve organizational goals for fundraising, enrollment, or other advancement initiatives.
- Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify target audiences and develop effective marketing messages.
- Oversee the creation and management of high-quality marketing materials across various channels (print, digital, social media, etc.).
- Implement data-driven marketing campaigns to track performance and optimize strategies for maximum impact.

Communication Management:

- Develop annual communication plans that align with the district’s strategic goals (e.g., highlighting academic milestones, bond initiatives, or student achievements) and keep stakeholders informed and engaged.
- Oversee the creation and distribution of internal and external communication materials, including newsletters, press releases, and website content.
- Serve as the organization's spokesperson for local, regional, and national media outlets. Prepare talking points for leadership and coordinate press conferences.
- Utilize survey data and community sentiment analysis to refine messaging and outreach strategies.
- Develop and maintain protocols for emergency and crisis communications. Act decisively to provide clear, timely, and reassuring information to stakeholders during challenging events.

Brand Management:

- Protect and promote the district’s brand identity across all media, ensuring consistency in messaging, tone, and visual standards.
- Oversee the organization's website, ensuring it is user-friendly, informative, and up-to-date.
- Manage social media channels, creating engaging content and fostering online communities.
- Track engagement metrics across platforms to identify what resonates with the community and adjust strategies for maximum reach.
- Monitor brand sentiment and address any negative perceptions proactively.

Team Leadership & Collaboration:

- Provide leadership and direction to the marketing and communication team.
- Collaborate with other departments (e.g., People, Schools) to ensure integrated marketing and communication efforts.
- Facilitate partnerships with community organizations, local businesses, and parent groups to strengthen the district's connection to the broader public.
- Manage budgets for marketing and communication activities.

Qualifications

- Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience in marketing and communication leadership, public relations, corporate communications, and educational marketing
- Proven track record of developing and implementing successful marketing campaigns.
- Experience in managing and developing marketing and communication teams.

Skills and Competencies:

- Commitment: Upholds KIPP Kansas City’s mission and values, including a deep belief in the potential of all students.
- Writing Excellence: Exceptional copywriting and editing skills; ability to translate complex educational data into accessible, compelling narratives.
- Multimedia Proficiency: Familiarity with digital content tools, such as content management systems (CMS), graphic design software (e.g., Canva or Adobe Creative Suite), and video editing basics.
- Cultural Competence: Ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations and ensure all communications are inclusive and accessible.
- Strategic Agility: Proven ability to manage multiple high-stakes projects simultaneously while remaining calm under pressure.
- Public Perception Stewardship: A proactive mindset that anticipates community questions and addresses concerns before they escalate. Strong understanding of digital marketing best practices (SEO, social media marketing, etc.).
- Relationship Building: The ability to build trust with diverse stakeholders, from school board members and district leadership to parents and community leaders.
- Narrative Sophistication: The skill to highlight the "why" behind pedagogical decisions, such as why Project-Based Learning or specific literacy interventions are being implemented in the district.

Additional Information

Physical Requirements:

- The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential