Freelance Social Strategist
Portland, OR, US
About the job
Reports to: COO
Department: Stratformance
Classification: Non-Exempt WHO WE ARE Thesis is a creative agency that drives design excellence and strategic impact across client programs. We elevate visual output through rigorous craft, innovation, and collaboration across multiple disciplines.
THE JOB The Social Strategist is a master of digital culture, a social storyteller, and a systems thinker who defines how brands show up, speak, and grow across the social ecosystem. Deeply embedded in platform trends, they architect "social-first" strategies that convert brand identity, cultural insights, and data into actionable, high-impact content. They own the strategic social vision for high-value programs, translating abstract brand goals into specific platform behaviors that drive measurable community growth and brand affinity.
In this role, you will play a critical part in setting both the social vision and the operational execution for an ambitious brand across the digital landscape. You will build scalable frameworks that provide clear direction for multi-layered engagement, balancing "always-on" consistency with high-impact tentpole moments. Collaborating closely with creative, account, and client teams, you will roll up your sleeves to ensure seamless execution while driving the continued advancement of digital brand programs. You are a confident presenter and a collaborative partner, adept at synthesizing client feedback to deliver strategies that exceed expectations and stay ahead of the curve.
AS A PERSON, YOU ARE:* Deep knowledge of social ecosystem design, algorithm mechanics, community management logic, and digital subcultures.
- Strong understanding of social-first creative, short-form video best practices, and the intersection of organic and paid social performance.
- Expert communicator and writer with the ability to translate complex digital metrics into clear business insights for executive stakeholders.
- Skilled in social listening tools (e.g., NetBase, Sprinklr, Brandwatch) and platform analytics.
- Ability to lead real-time workstreams and guide teams through the ambiguity of shifting digital trends.
- Clear, confident presenter with a knack for making digital strategy feel intuitive and actionable.
IN THIS ROLE, YOU WILL:* Lead social-first strategic thinking across clients and internal teams, shifting the focus from static brand platforms to dynamic social ecosystems.
- Develop data-driven comprehensive social playbooks, channel architectures, and content strategies that drive business impact and community engagement.
- Apply deep platform expertise (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, emerging tech) to inform creative development and campaign mechanics.
- Translate social listening, trend analysis, and data into actionable briefs.
- Architect creator and influencer strategies that align with brand goals and strategic direction.
- Build systems for "always-on" collaboration, ensuring alignment between organic social, paid media, and customer service.
- Lead strategic storytelling for social-led pitches, quarterly business reviews, and platform-specific innovation presentations.
- Identify gaps in social tech stacks, reporting frameworks, and creative-to-social workflows.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS* 10+ years of experience in brand, content, or communications strategy.
- 3–5+ years of experience managing or mentoring strategic talent.
- Proven success delivering social strategy for premium brands.
- Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, psychology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS* The following capabilities are required in order to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden on the agency are available to address the following requirements.
- Using standard office equipment, computers, and related technology.
- Certain activities are performed in an environmentally controlled office setting, subject to extended periods of sitting, keyboarding, and manipulating a computer mouse.
- Bending, reaching, lifting, pushing and pulling up to 25 pounds.
- This role requires up to 25% travel.
RELATIONSHIPS* Reports to the Chief Operation Officer.
- Peers with Creative, Technology, and Account Directors across the organization.
- Partners closely with cross-functional leads to align strategy with execution.
- Leads strategic work across key accounts and supports the growth of senior strategists and leads.
- Is client-facing and serves as a strategic lead on high-priority, high-impact client relationships.
VALUES Be Lean, Take Action: Think big, roll up your sleeves, and get the job done. Use process as an engine, not a brake.
Say What You Mean, Mean What You Say: Connect openly, share ideas honestly, and embrace collaboration without ego.
Show Up Fully: Bring your whole self to work — your perspective, background, and experiences — and make space for others to do the same.
ENCOURAGEMENT We know that experience can show up in many ways. We encourage candidates to apply even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications. If you are passionate about strategy, eager to grow, and excited to contribute your perspective, we want to hear from you.
We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and believe the best ideas come from bringing different voices and experiences together. If you’re a strategist who’s eager to learn, share, and innovate, you’ll thrive here.