Marketing & Communications Manager

Accola is a nonprofit organization that welcomes neighbors, cultivates community, and fosters justice by responding to the needs of the time. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities through innovative programs and strategic partnerships. We strive to create places of hope and belonging where all people can flourish.

Accola operates three core programs:

• Learning In Style School (LIS): Provides quality education in English, computer skills, and citizenship to immigrants and refugees, fostering independence and inclusion.
• Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women: A home for women survivors of violence, abuse, war, and discrimination, offering safety, dignity, and resources for self-sufficiency.
• Wisdom Ways: A program that moves people from deep inner listening into courageous action to co-create a better world, focusing on spiritual exploration, storytelling, and social justice impact.

At Accola, we believe every individual possesses inherent dignity and a unique contribution that enriches our community. We stand firm in our belief that diversity is not a political issue but a moral and practical imperative essential for a just society. We affirm that an inclusive, diverse community is the cornerstone of innovation, resilience, and lasting social change.

Our culture is one where people feel a deep sense of belonging, where diversity of identities and perspectives is honored, and where people are invited to bring their whole selves to the work. We foster an environment of shared learning, compassion, accountability, and courageous action.

Position Overview:

Accola is a new organization that operates three established programs with rich histories and deep roots. We are seeking a dynamic Marketing and Communications Manager to lead our strategic communications, branding, and digital engagement efforts. This role is responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns, managing digital, print, and web content, supporting fundraising events, and enhancing our visibility to key stakeholders, including donors, community partners, and the media. The ideal candidate is a skilled storyteller with a passion for social justice and a talent for translating complex issues into compelling narratives, and is deeply inspired by Accola’s mission and values, passionate about social justice, and energized by bold goals that drive transformational change.

This position works collaboratively with all three program directors.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications & Branding

• Develop and implement a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy that aligns with the organization’s mission and goals.
• Ensure consistent branding and messaging across all communication channels.
• Develop and deliver key messaging frameworks to effectively communicate the organization’s impact, highlighting specific program outcomes and stories.

Content Development & Digital Engagement

• Manage and create content for the organization's website, social media, newsletters, and blog.
• Oversee social media strategy and execution, including content scheduling, community engagement, and analytics.
• Write and edit press releases, opinion pieces, annual reports, and other public-facing materials.
• Collaborate with program teams to develop compelling storytelling pieces that highlight the voices of impacted communities.

Media & Public Relations

• Support Leadership in responding to journalists, media outlets, and influencers.
• Coordinate media outreach, including press releases, interviews, and op-eds.
• Monitor media coverage and provide insights on trends related to immigration and social justice issues.

Fundraising & Campaign Support

• Support advancement efforts by creating fundraising campaign materials, donor engagement content, and impact reports.
• Collaborate with the advancement team to develop donor-centric storytelling.
• Manage marketing for events, including promotion, branding, and post-event communications.
• Support events and community engagement efforts

Analytics & Performance Tracking

• Monitor and analyze website traffic, social media engagement, and email marketing performance to optimize communication strategies.
• Prepare reports on marketing and communications metrics to assess impact and effectiveness.

Qualities of a Successful Candidate:

A fundamental aspect of Accola’s work is our commitment to hiring from within our communities. We believe that representation and lived experience are essential for fostering authentic relationships and ensuring our programs remain responsive and effective. By prioritizing local talent, we create economic empowerment and leadership development opportunities while strengthening the communities we impact. Accola’s Marketing and Communication Manager will be:

• Deeply committed to Accola’s mission, values, and vision for inclusive community and social justice.
• A proactive and strategic thinker who thrives on setting and reaching ambitious goals.
• Exceptional storytelling and writing skills – Ability to craft compelling narratives that highlight the impact of advocacy and direct services.
• Strategic communications expertise – Skilled in developing messaging that mobilizes supporters, engages policymakers, and raises awareness of key social justice issues.
• Advocacy and campaign experience – Ability to create and execute communications strategies that drive action, influence policy, and support community organizing efforts.
• Digital and grassroots marketing proficiency – Experience managing social media, email outreach, and public awareness campaigns to engage diverse audiences.
• Media and public relations experience – Comfortable engaging with journalists, writing press releases, and securing media coverage to amplify the organization's mission.
• Graphic design and branding awareness – Ability to create or oversee visually compelling materials for advocacy efforts, community outreach, and donor engagement.
• Data-driven mindset – Proficient in analyzing marketing performance metrics (Google Analytics, social media insights) to refine strategies and maximize impact.
• Committed to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive work culture.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3-5 years of experience in marketing, communications, or public relations, preferably in a nonprofit or social justice environment.
• Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with an ability to craft compelling narratives.
• Strong experience managing digital marketing tools, including social media platforms, email marketing (Mailchimp, Constant Contact, etc.), and website CMS (WordPress, Squarespace, etc.).
• Knowledge of SEO, Google Analytics, and social media analytics.
• Experience with graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusion.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Saint Paul, MN 55105