Senior Communication Specialist - Chicago, IL

Who is Gateway Foundation?

Gateway Foundation, Inc. is a national non-profit dedicated to helping individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Established in 1968, Gateway provides essential tools and knowledge for recovery, positively impacting hundreds of thousands of lives. Operating through its Community Services, Corrections Divisions, and Corporate Headquarters, the organization is recognized for innovative, effective treatment approaches and maintaining high standards.

Why join us?

Discover a rewarding career where you can find both personal and professional fulfillment while aligning your values with your work. You'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by aiding individuals in overcoming addiction. We pride ourselves on being an organization that values you and strives to be an employer of choice, fostering a vibrant culture that promotes teamwork and professional growth. Your voice matters here; we actively listen to and value our employees' thoughts, allowing you to be part of organizational decisions. At Gateway Foundation, diversity, equity, and inclusion are principles that we embrace in every community we serve. Additionally, enjoy access to wellness programs, including weekly yoga sessions and chair massages. Join Gateway Foundation today and become part of a team dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

The Senior Communication Specialist will lead and execute strategic communication initiatives for Gateway Foundation.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to promote Gateway Foundation's mission, programs, and achievements.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with media outlets, influencers, and key stakeholders to secure positive coverage and build brand awareness.
• Create compelling and targeted content for press releases, website, social media, newsletters, internal communications and other platforms.
• Manage and safeguard Gateway Foundation’s image and reputation by implementing initiatives to address public perception, mitigate negative sentiment, and enhance positive brand representation.
• Oversee the planning and execution of events, conferences, and other public relations activities.Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with organizational goals.
• Monitor media trends and industry news to identify opportunities and risks, providing timely insights to leadership.
• Develop, manage, and maintain targeted local and national media lists, contacts, and influencers to enhance the organization's media presence and ensure swift, accurate outreach during crisis communications and urgent response scenarios.
• Measure and analyze the effectiveness of communication strategies and adjust plans accordingly.
• Stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends in public relations and communications.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field.
• 5+ years’ experience in communications and public relations, preferably in the nonprofit or healthcare sector.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with an ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated success in securing positive media coverage and managing media relationships.
• Proficiency in using various communication tools, social media platforms, and content creation software.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to align communication efforts with organizational goals.
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across departments.
• High ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the organization's image.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift up to 10 – 20 pounds to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects such as files and other office materials.
• May be required to stoop and bend when handling computer equipment, troubleshooting system problems, etc.
• Occasional travel to assist with the coordination of events.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Works in an office or clinical environment where there are relatively few discomforts due to dust, dirt, noise and the like. Occasional exposure to contagious diseases, but potential for harm is limited if established safety precautions and infection control procedures are followed.

Benefits at Gateway Foundation:

Health and Wellness:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
• Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums
• Employee assistance programs focused on mental health

Financial wellbeing:

• 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match
• Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Gateway
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Flexibility and time off:

• 18 paid time off days per year – accrual rates increase with years of service
• 9 paid company holidays
• Work-life-balance

Personal Development:

• Training & Development Programs
• Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year
• eLearning access to online courses that provide CEU’s and job-related training
• Clinical Supervision: Formal and informal guidance

Gateway Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets. Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here .