Summary

This is a unique communications opportunity to lead the development and implementation of SCB’s channel strategy. The Marketing and Communications Specialist is part of the Chicago-based marketing team and plays a key role in activating the organization’s voice, tone, and overall messaging. This individual is curious and creative, a proactive self-starter who enjoys writing, learning the ins and outs of architecture and design, and collaborates easily. This is an in-person role.

The Marketing and Communications Specialist will collaborate with the marketing team to help the firm pursue and win new business, promote the firm’s portfolio and expertise, and enhance and expand the SCB brand. They will also work closely with the Director of Marketing and Communications on messaging, channel strategy, and public relations for the firm. The successful candidate will bring strong writing ability, demonstrated understanding of marketing best practices, and the ability to communicate effectively with peers, colleagues, and leadership. This is a fast-paced and exhilarating environment where we encourage new ideas, promote individual ownership and responsibility, support each other, and celebrate our successes as a team.

Detailed Role Description

The Marketing and Communications Specialist (MCS) is an integral member of the marketing team, which is comprised of a manager, marketing coordinators, and a graphic designer. The department is responsible for the development, management, and execution of proposals, presentations (interview, client, and public), collateral, firm communications and digital presence, public relations, photography, award submissions, and all other marketing-focused activities. In this role, the MCS will help guide the written communications during the production process and also manage the firm’s digital communication channels, public relations correspondence, and award strategy and submittal.

Duties and Responsibilities (Production)

• Providing guidance in proposal, interview, and presentation strategies in collaboration with sector leaders/Principal-in-charge, business development directors, and marketing department to ensure strength and relevance of message.
• Providing written materials for RFP/Q pursuits.
• Participating in the creation of project-specific strategies with marketing production team and design team leadership.
• Attending pre-proposal meetings hosted by the client as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities (Communications)

• Collaborating with the Director of Marketing and Communications to develop content strategy that reflects the broader SCB brand vision and goals for use across multiple mediums.
• Crafting firm-wide and sector-specific messaging with Director of Marketing and Communications and principal leadership, ensuring consistency across all communications efforts.
• Planning a comprehensive annual communications strategy that outlines strategic content initiatives, goals, and KPIs.
• Overseeing a content calendar to maintain consistent and strategic digital presence in line with the brand’s narrative.
• Developing meaningful storytelling initiatives that highlight SCB projects, innovation, and impact.
• Implementing SEO strategies to optimize digital content.
• Managing public relations approach and content, and working to cultivate relationships with media outlets, journalists, and industry influences to amplify the SCB brand.
• Identifying areas for press coverage and coordinating media interviews and features that align with our brand story.
• Researching and identifying relevant industry awards and recognition opportunities. With marketing coordination support, preparing and submitting award nominations.
• Tracking local and national conference presentations, sessions, and speaking opportunities to help further the firm’s brand and marketing goals and writing, editing, and submitting proposals when appropriate.
• Overseeing all social media for the firm, developing and posting content consistently to all channels.
• Monitoring and tracking channel performance metrics to optimize email communications and social media strategy.
• Managing logistics for firm sponsorships, contributions, and event coordination.
• Compiling and maintaining firm-wide contact lists with marketing team.
• Maintaining the firm’s brand standards book.

Essential Skills/Attributes

• Creative and strategic thinker with extensive knowledge of the AEC industry, terminology, and procedures.
• Bachelor’s degree and minimum of 8 years’ experience in marketing/graphics/communications field.
• Strong written communication skills. Proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Microsoft Office.
• Exhibit knowledge of best-in-class marketing practices and trends.
• Creative, organized, and able to prioritize and deliver in a deadline driven environment.
• Positive attitude, proactive, committed, and able to jump between multiple tasks easily.
• Personal interest in design and knowledge of AEC industry a major plus.