ABOUT US—Citygate Network is North America’s oldest and largest community of faith-based crisis shelters and life-transformation centers. Since 1906, we’ve been at the forefront of providing comprehensive homeless services across major cities. Today, we support over 300 organizations that serve and support those in desperate need, often as the most extensive or only provider in their communities. Our collective mission is to offer hope, healing, and holistic support to those who need it most.
Citygate Network exists to equip ministries to transform lives from suffering to flourishing through the gospel. We are a movement of gospel-powered, life transformation missions and ministries who:
- are champions for the poor and marginalized, for those who are hungry, homeless, abused, and addicted.
- boldly bring God's message of hope and transformation to people in the most challenging and difficult places.
- love and serve in Jesus' name, desiring to see people rescued out of crisis, experiencing healing and restoration.
OVERVIEW— The Communication Specialist reports directly to the Senior Director of Operations & Communications and is responsible for leading and executing comprehensive communication strategies that enhance the visibility and impact of Citygate Network. This role includes managing and executing communications initiatives such as electronic newsletters, e-blasts, website and portal content updates, social media management, video content creation, and podcast development. The Communication Specialist will collaborate with various departments to manage digital and print communications, external consultants and contractors, and business members to produce cohesive, engaging materials that align with the organization’s mission and goals. Additionally, this role involves tracking communication effectiveness through analytics, adapting strategies as needed to ensure alignment. This is a full-time position, non-exempt from overtime, in accordance with Colorado employment law.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE—Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field with a proven track record in developing and executing successful communication strategies and campaigns. Nonprofit experience is a plus.
QUALIFICATIONS—The Communication Specialist shall:
- Maintain a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, demonstrate a courteous, Christ-like demeanor, and regularly uphold the organization, staff, and members in prayer.
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with teams, members, consultants, and external partners.
- Be proficient in creating, editing, and proofreading for various channels, including websites, social media, emails, newsletters, and press releases.
- Display strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities effectively.
- Have technical proficiency with Apple hardware/software, Microsoft Office, email marketing platforms, CRM (HubSpot), website management (WordPress) and have basic HTML/CSS knowledge for minor edits.
- Possess skills in graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva) and video production/editing tools.
- Have experience managing social media platforms (LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram) and creating engaging content, scheduling posts, and fostering engagement.
- Have the ability to analyze communication metrics and use analytics tools (Google Analytics) to adjust strategies and track campaign effectiveness; knowledge of SEO principles for optimizing content.
- Exhibit excellent written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail in grammar and style; adapt tone to various audiences and media.
- Be open to learning new tools and strategies, staying current on trends in digital marketing, social media, video production, and podcasting.
- Be available for occasional travel (1-2 times per year for events) to support onsite communication and event-related activities.
DUTIES—The Communication Specialist shall:
- Website & Member Portal Management
- Collaborate with consultants to develop and implement a new website and member portal, using Wordpress and Wordpress plug-ins.
- Oversee the maintenance and optimization of website content to ensure it is functional, engaging, and up-to-date, to work with the communications team to create content when necessary.
- Ensure the website adheres to SEO best practices, driving organic traffic and improving search engine visibility.
- Collaborate with the necessary staff and consultants to perform regular website checks, ensuring security, functionality, and smooth user experience.
- Working with the Director of Member Engagement, manage content and resources within the member portal, ensuring they are easily accessible and up-to-date.
- Coordinate with the Database Manager to ensure smooth integration of data and functionality across platforms
- Electronic Communications
- Design and deliver newsletters, e-blasts, and promotional materials using the CRM, ensuring content is relevant, engaging, and aligned with organizational goals.
- Work with the Director of Development to distribute sponsored email blasts from business members.
- Track email performance (open rates, click-through rates) and provide regular reports to assess effectiveness and optimize strategies.
- Work closely with the Database Manager to maintain up-to-date, segmented contact lists for targeted communications.
- Social Media, Video, & Public Relations
- Develop, create, and schedule engaging content across social media platforms (LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram), ensuring messaging is on-brand and consistent.
- Manage social media interactions, fostering a community atmosphere by engaging with followers, responding to comments, monitoring discussions, and highlighting members.
- Track social media performance using analytics tools, adjusting strategies to maximize engagement, visibility, and reach.
- Lead the creation of video content for social media, the website, and events, incorporating storytelling techniques to engage and inspire audiences.
- Explore podcast opportunities by developing concepts, planning content, and collaborating with team members to produce episodes that align with organizational goals.
- Working with the communications team and other staff, distribute press releases for events, announcements, and news, ensuring maximum exposure.
- Track media coverage and provide regular reports on the organization's presence in the news.
- Event Communications & Promotion
- Oversee all communications related to events, working with the communications team to collect and occasionally develop content for brochures, programs, and online materials, ensuring consistency and engagement.
- Manage event-related content on platforms such as conference apps and websites, ensuring it is updated with accurate session information, speaker bios, and event schedules.
- Lead pre-event communication and marketing efforts, including emails, countdowns, and reminders, to keep stakeholders informed, engaged, and drive increased attendance.
- Develop and execute promotional strategies for events through email campaigns, social media, website content, and other channels to maximize event visibility.
- Work closely with the graphic designer to produce print materials such as brochures, programs, and other event-related collateral, ensuring brand consistency and high-quality presentation.
- Design & Branding
- Design visually engaging digital and print communications, including newsletters, e-blasts, brochures, and templates, ensuring consistency with the organization's brand guidelines.
- Develop visual elements (images, graphics, layouts) for a variety of communications materials, maintaining a cohesive and professional look across all touchpoints, working with the contracted graphic designer on designated projects.
- Assist in branding efforts for new digital platforms, including the upcoming website and portal.
- Administrative & Strategic Support
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and execute communication strategies that align with organizational goals and engage key audiences.
- Along with the Director of Strategic Communications, help maintain a detailed editorial calendar for all communications (newsletters, social media posts, blog content, event promotions) to ensure timely and consistent messaging.
- Assist with crisis communications and help develop strategies to address urgent or sensitive issues.
- Research trends in digital marketing, video production, podcasting, social media, and communication strategies to enhance the organization’s outreach.
- Track and analyze communication metrics (email performance, website traffic, social media engagement) to inform and improve future communications.