Words Without Borders

Digital Marketing & Communications Manager

Digital Marketing & Communications Manager
Full-time
New York, NY

The digital marketing and communications manager will drive audience and engagement growth across Words Without Borders’ online platforms. The ideal candidate will be an organized self-starter ready to think creatively about how to grow the audience for international writing and increase engagement within the communities we serve. This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career communications professional eager to make an impact in a growing international literary organization.

Founded in 2003, Words Without Borders cultivates global awareness by offering unparalleled access to international writing in English translation. Reaching readers around the world, our website provides a vital platform for today’s international writers and literary translators. Our programs include our Whiting Prize–winning digital magazine for international writing in translation, an online education program for students and educators, and public literary events held virtually and in New York City. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Working closely with the executive director and the editorial, education, and development staff, the digital marketing and communications manager will develop and implement digital communications strategies aligned with our overall organizational goals. Key responsibilities include:

—Manage and expand WWB’s social media presence by sharing literary and programmatic content on social media.
—Coordinate with the editorial team to develop creative marketing plans for international literary content.
—Devise and execute email, social media, and advertising campaigns to promote WWB’s mission, fundraising, and strategic priorities.
—Prepare and distribute external communications including press releases, event invitations, and e-newsletters.
—Coordinate the occasional design, printing and/or production, and distribution of promotional materials and videos.
—Monitor and provide regular reports on website, newsletter, and social media metrics.
—Help to devise strategies and to set and meet goals for increasing website traffic, newsletter subscribers, and social media followers.
—Increase third-party mentions and referrals by developing and maintaining partnerships for cross-promotion and by pitching WWB content and news to external outlets.
—Stay on top of digital communication trends; serve as an in-house expert on digital outreach strategies and oversee their implementation. Coordinate with the executive director to seek external expertise and consultation as needed.
—Manage in-kind advertising grant from Google AdWords.
—Coordinate the sale and placement of advertising on WWB platforms.
—Oversee the work of communications interns and fellows.
—Assist in the production and planning of WWB events and programs.
—Represent WWB at events and festivals in and around New York City.

QUALIFICATIONS

—3–5 years of professional experience in digital marketing, communications, or related fields, media or literary setting preferred. Prior social media management experience is a must.
—Demonstrated interest in international literature. Knowledge of another language and/or cultural context strongly desired.
—Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills; excellent attention to detail.
—Motivated self-starter capable of working independently and on a collaborative team. Must be capable of taking initiative and willing to pitch in on other projects when needed.
—Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines.
—Comfortable taking risks, testing hypotheses, and analyzing results to inform and refine strategy; track record of demonstrating sound judgment.
—Strong design sense and familiarity with Photoshop or Canva, as well as video-editing software, is required.
—Proficiency using Mac OS, Microsoft Office, contact management and email marketing systems (Salesforce and Mailchimp desired), and social media tools including Facebook, Hootsuite, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
—Experience with evaluating and reporting on Google Analytics and social media metrics; experience with Google AdWords desired.
—Experience in virtual events coordination a plus.

This is a full-time, semi-remote position based in New York City. The digital marketing and communications manager will be expected to attend literary events and festivals in NYC in addition to making regular visits to the Brooklyn office. Salary range is $45,000–$50,000 per year DOE plus generous health benefits and paid time off.

Words Without Borders does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, nationality, marital status, parental status, military service, or disability. We are committed to pursuing equity and inclusion in our organization and seek candidates who bring diverse backgrounds and new perspectives to our work. Individuals from groups who have been historically underrepresented in the field of publishing are especially encouraged to apply. Permission to work in the US is required.

Interested candidates may email a résumé and cover letter indicating how this position aligns with their skill set and career goals to Karen M. Phillips, executive director, jobs@wordswithoutborders.org with the subject line “Digital Marketing & Communications Manager.” No phone calls or social media contact, please.

Application deadline: July 5, 2021, at 5PM EDT.

Contact Information

Karen M. Phillips, Executive Director & Publisher
147 Prince Street
Brooklyn
NY
11201